Sarma and Scindia Chart 5-Point Plan to Boost Muga Silk, Rural Tourism, and Connectivity

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently announced the outcome of a high-level review meeting held with Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and senior officials from the Ministry of Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER). The meeting, described as “very productive” by CM Sarma, laid the foundation for a new five-point development roadmap aimed at accelerating growth in Assam and aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision for transforming the Northeast’s “Ashtalakshmi” states.

The central theme of the meeting revolved around a comprehensive development strategy that targets key economic sectors in Assam. The five focus areas identified in the new roadmap include: (1) boosting Muga silk production, a unique and traditional silk variety native to Assam; (2) expanding palm oil and agarwood cultivation to strengthen the agricultural and agro-industrial base of the state; (3) promoting a wide array of tourism opportunities by leveraging the region’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage; (4) converting border villages into vibrant economic hubs to enhance border economy and security; and (5) enhancing regional logistics by improving infrastructure, strengthening power supply, and ensuring last-mile connectivity.

Through this initiative, the state government aims to not only unlock Assam’s economic potential but also uplift rural and tribal communities by integrating them into the mainstream economy. The focus on Muga silk and agarwood, in particular, reflects an intent to harness indigenous strengths and promote sustainable livelihoods rooted in local resources.

Following the meeting, CM Sarma took to social media, expressing optimism about the discussions. He posted, “Just concluded a very productive review meeting with Union Minister @JM_Scindia Ji and officials from @MDoNER_India and Team Assam. The Ministry is working on a 5 Point Framework to realise Prime Minister @narendramodi Ji's vision of transforming our Ashtalakshmi States.” His comments highlighted the government’s intent to push forward with clear, actionable plans.

In addition to sector-specific goals, Sarma noted that there were also in-depth discussions on streamlining supply chains in the Northeast. This includes plans for greater investment in core infrastructure, power generation and distribution, and robust connectivity solutions that bridge remote areas with urban markets. This aspect is particularly significant for Assam, which acts as a gateway to the Northeast and plays a key role in linking India’s eastern frontier to Southeast Asia.

Union Minister Scindia, who visited Assam for the meeting, also took to social media to share his appreciation, stating, “Always a pleasure to meet Chief Minister of Assam, @himantabiswa Ji. Looking forward to a productive meeting with him and senior officials of the state government to discuss key development initiatives.” His participation underlined the Centre’s growing commitment to Northeast India’s economic transformation.

The outcomes of this strategic meeting are expected to inform several upcoming policy announcements and development programs by the DoNER Ministry. Assam, with its diverse resources, strategic location, and cultural vibrancy, is being positioned as a launchpad for broader regional growth. This five-point development framework signals a focused and collaborative effort to usher in long-term prosperity and infrastructural modernization in the state.