Guwahati, May 16: Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, held a high-level review meeting with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati on Friday to assess the status of major development projects in the state.
The minister underscored the Centre’s commitment to acting as a proactive facilitator in Assam’s development journey. He called for a mission-mode approach to achieving 100% saturation of social development goals, especially in Vibrant Villages across the state.
Scindia pushed for a strategic focus on Assam’s agarwood economy, stressing its untapped potential as a high-value asset. He urged policymakers to build an ecosystem that enables value addition and market expansion for agarwood products.
The Muga silk industry—unique to Assam—was also a key point of discussion. Scindia emphasized the need for end-to-end value chain development, which would empower local weavers to secure better livelihoods and transform Muga Silk into a global brand.
On the agricultural front, the Minister highlighted the importance of self-reliance in palm oil production, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He encouraged Assam to leverage its agro-climatic advantages to meet domestic demand and reduce import dependency.
Tourism development also featured prominently in the meeting, with a shared vision to showcase Assam’s cultural heritage and natural beauty on the global stage.
Scindia assured continued Union Government support and close coordination to accelerate inclusive, sustainable growth in Assam and the broader Northeast region.
