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The Assam economy and development depend on the production of the state. The economy is prevalently agrarian in nature. The government makes continuous efforts to develop the already existing agrarian economy and to improve the other sectors of the economy in the state of Assam.
Almost 63 percent of the Society of Assam earns its living from the agricultural sector. The state is reputed all over the world for its production of tea. The state produces 15 percent of the tea produced in the world. A large section of the labor force of the state is employed in the tea estates of Assam that cover large areas of the state. The other agricultural produce involves rice, sugarcane, pulses, potatoes and jute. Fruits like mangoes, bananas, pineapple and guavas are also produced in the state.
The Secondary Sector of the economy comprises of the industries in Assam with large and medium scale productions. Agro Based Industries prevail in the state coupled with the tea Industry that has a major contribution to the economy of the state of Assam. Other industries include the petroleum industry with one of the oldest oil ventures of the world situated in Digboy. The state also earns revenue from the mining industry that produces the four important industrial Minerals of coal, limestone, sillimanite and oil.
Some of the other industries of the state are mentioned below:
- Fisheries-2/”>Fisheries
- Sericulture
- Forest and wood industry
- Chemicals and Fertilizers industry.
- Handloom and textile industry
Agriculture in Assam depends on the availability of proper funds. Banks ensure that the loans are available to the agricultural sector at easy interest rates. Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE of the state supports the proper Marketing of the produce of the agricultural sector.
The Assam Agriculture faces certain problems due to floods in the region. The government attempts to resolve these problems and to support the sector to achieve optimal production in agriculture in the state.
In Assam, Social Banking policies are spearheaded by the burgeoning Network of Scheduled Commercial Banks act as a buttress to the core sectors of the economy. The Regional Rural Banks that are fast proliferating through the state are an offshoot of the Scheduled Commercial Banks.
The state’s diversified banking system is classified and grouped under the following heads:
- State Bank of India and its Associates
- Nationalized Banks
- Foreign Banks
- Regional Rural Banks
- Other Scheduled Commercial Banks
Business
Business in Assam is mainly related to the silk and tea that are produced here in large quantity. There is a large amount of revenue and Investment involved in the business related to packaging and production of these two items.
Assam is very famous for its tea. A large quantity of Assam Tea is exported abroad. This business in turn earns a lot of revenue for the state. Assamese tea is famous world wide for its wonderful flavor and taste.
Fisheries
The state’s department of fisheries in Assam aims to promote and develop economic farming of fish in the state. This wing of the State Government wants to promote the idea of commercially producing fish in almost all the water bodies in the state.
The mission of the fisheries department in Assam is to ensure a stable income from the fish market. They also want to restore indigenous species of fish in the state. They are planning to produce fish of such quality so that the state production can compete with the imported ones. In such cases they will have to consider the cost of production as well.
Forestry in Assam is one of the most important economic activities of the state. This has been possible due to the vast stretch of forests in Assam. A total area of 26,781.91 sq. km is under forests in this state. As a result about 34.14% of the total area of Assam is under forests. Thus a variety of Flora and Fauna are available in the state.
The State Forest Department is also considering Social Forestry in Assam very seriously. Their main objective is to enhance afforestation in the residential areas of the Indian state of Assam. The number of seedlings planted in order to promote this scheme was 96.76 lakh during the year 2001-2002.
Industries
The tea Industry in Assam is one of the internationally renowned sectors. However, apart from this there are many different industrial activities too going on in the state. The state government is looking forward to more development in this sector as a result of the implementation of certain schemes that were recently designed. Since the state is blessed with natural Resources so their proper exploitation is now the main aim of the state government.
The Industries and Commerce Department of the state is trying to overcome all the hurdles and promote a right industrial Climate in the state. There are about 12 industrial estates under this department in Assam.
Mineral and Energies
Minerals and Energy Assam play an important role in the industrial development of the state. The mineral resource of Assam is very rich. The diversity in the flora of the state has made it possible. Due to this richness of resource the state is expected to flourish very well in the industrial field.
The energy sources of Assam are mainly the rivers and lakes. This is also one of the basic facts behind the expected industrial boom in the state. The tenth five-year plan has been designed to productively exploit the wealth that is present in the state.
Industry in Assam
Apart from tea and petroleum refineries,[2] Assam has few industries of significance. Industrial development is inhibited by its physical and political isolation from neighbouring countries such as Myanmar, China and Bangladesh and from the other growing South East Asian economies. The region is landlocked and situated in the eastern most periphery of India and is linked to the mainland of India by a flood and cyclone prone narrow corridor with weak transportation infrastructure. The international airport in Guwahati is yet to find airlines providing better direct international flights. The Brahmaputra suitable for navigation does not have sufficient infrastructure for international trade and success of such a navigable trade route will be dependent on proper channel maintenance, and diplomatic and trade relationships with Bangladesh.
Assam is a major producer of crude oil and natural gas in India.[2] Assam is the second place in the world (after Titusville in the United States) where petroleum was discovered. Asia’s first successful mechanically drilled oil well was drilled in Makum (Assam) way back in 1867. The second oldest oil well in the world still produces crude oil. Most of the oilfields of Assam are located in the Upper Assam region of the Brahmaputra Valley. Assam has four oil refineries located at Guwahati, Digboi, Numaligarh and Bongaigaon with a total capacity of 7 MMTPA (Million Metric Tonnes per annum). Bongaigaon Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (BRPL) is the only S&P CNX 500 conglomerate with corporate office in Assam. One of the biggest public sector oil company of the country, Oil India Ltd. has its plant and headquarter at Duliajan.
Although having a poor overall industrial performance, there are several other industries, including a chemical fertiliser plant at Namrup, petrochemical industries at Namrup and Bongaigaon, paper mills at Jagiroad, Panchgram and Jogighopa, sugar mills at BaruaBamunGaon, Chargola, Kampur, cement plant at Bokajan, cosmetics plant of Hindustan Unilever(HUL) at Doom Dooma, etc. Moreover, there are other industries such as jute mill, textile and yarn mills, silk mill, etc. Unfortunately many of these industries are facing loss and closer due to lack of infrastructure and improper management practices.
Assam is the largest economy in the Northeast region. Owing to its relative proximity to the rest of the country and availability of quality infrastructure, the state offers a favourable Environment for industry.
Assam boasts largest tea growing area in the world, constituting around one-seventh of the global tea production. The state accounts for over 50 per cent in the country’s overall tea production. It also has 16 industrial estates, three industrial Growth centres, 10 Integrated Infrastructure Development Depots, 17 industrial areas, 11 growth centres, six mini industrial estates, one Export Promotion park and one Food Processing industrial park. Assam is also the most popular tourist destination among the north-eastern states.
Between 2004-05 and 2015-16, Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) expanded at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9 per cent to US$ 30.72 billion whereas the Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) expanded at a CAGR of 8.65 per cent to US$ 26.16 billion.
To facilitate infrastructure support, the State Industries and Commerce Department has sponsored three projects as industrial growth centres at Chariduar, Matia and Chaygaon-Patgaon.
The Assam government has approved 11 integrated infrastructure development centres across the state. Some of the major initiatives taken by the government to promote Assam as an investment destination are:
- Under the current Five-Year Plan, a new Institute of Information Technology (IIT) has been set up in Guwahati, Assam in the Public-Private PARTNERSHIP mode. It will help in promoting research and industrial partnership in technical Education.
- The State has adopted the North East Industrial Investment Promotion Policy and Industrial Policy of Assam to facilitate business through fiscal incentives and multi-year concessions to investors.
- The IT Policy and Tourism Policy of Assam have given special attention towards specific sector development.
- Assam Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) has implemented an Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) at Amingaon, near Guwahati in the district of Kamrup, at an estimated cost of US$ 3 million.
- Industrial growth centres with supporting infrastructure have been set up at Balipara in the Sonitpur district and Matia in Goalpara at estimated cost of US$ 4.5 million and US$ 5.3 million respectively.
- Integrated Infrastructure Development (IID) centres have been planned at Parbatpur, Serphangguri, Dalgaon, Demow, Bhomoraguri, Malinibeel, Dahudi, Silapathar, Rangia, Banderdewa and Titabar.
- The Government of India has created a Special Purpose Tea Fund (SPTF) for rejuvenation of the tea bushes. This will benefit about 700 to 800 tea gardens of the state.
- Border Trade Centres (BTCs) have been established at Mankachar (Dhubri), Sutarkandi (Karimganj) and Darranga (Kamrup).
Assam Industrial Development Corporation Limited
Assam Industrial Development Corporation Limited has been incorporated in the year 1965 and it has been registered under the Companies Act. 1956. The objective of the Corporation as laid down while forming the Corporation are as follows:
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Assam Industrial Development Corporation Limited has been striving towards creating high standard industrial infrastructure in Assam for the growth and Development Of Industries in the State.
Strategy and Business Plan adopted for realization of goal:
Strategy:
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Business plan:
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Vision:
| » | Enriching the state of Assam through a vibrant and sustained industrial growth. |
Mission
| » | Facilitating the continuous and speedy industrial growth through optimal utilization of available resources. |
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Assam is a state in north-eastern India. It is the largest state in the region by area and the third most populous. Assam is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, languages, and cultures. The state has a long history of industrialization, dating back to the early 20th century.
The first major industries in Assam were tea plantations and oil refineries. Tea plantations were established in the 1830s by British colonists. The oil industry began in the early 1900s, with the discovery of oil in the Digboi region. These two industries played a major role in the Economic Development of Assam during the colonial period.
After independence, the Indian government invested heavily in the development of Assam’s Industrial Sector. New industries were established in the state, including steel mills, fertilizer Plants, and power plants. These industries helped to create jobs and boost the economy of Assam.
In recent years, the government of Assam has focused on promoting industrial development in the state. The government has implemented a number of initiatives to attract investment from both domestic and foreign companies. These initiatives have been successful in attracting a number of new industries to Assam, including automobile manufacturing, electronics manufacturing, and food processing.
Assam has a number of advantages that make it an attractive destination for investment. The state has a large and growing Population, a young workforce, and a relatively low cost of living. Assam is also located in a strategic location, with access to both the Indian and Southeast Asian markets.
Despite its advantages, Assam faces a number of challenges to industrial development. The state’s infrastructure is underdeveloped, and there is a shortage of skilled workers. Assam also suffers from political instability and Corruption. These challenges have made it difficult for businesses to operate in the state.
Despite the challenges, the prospects for industrial development in Assam are good. The state has a number of strengths that make it an attractive destination for investment. The government of Assam is committed to promoting industrial development, and it has implemented a number of initiatives to attract investment. With continued investment and development, Assam has the potential to become a major industrial hub in India.
Major industries in Assam:
- Tea
- Oil and gas
- Steel
- Fertilizer
- Power
- Automobile manufacturing
- Electronics manufacturing
- Food processing
Challenges to industrial development in Assam:
- Underdeveloped infrastructure
- Shortage of skilled workers
- Political instability
- Corruption
Government initiatives for industrial development in Assam:
- Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Assam (IPICOL)
- Assam State Industrial Development Corporation (ASIDC)
- North Eastern Council (NEC)
- Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER)
Prospects for industrial development in Assam:
- Good, with a number of strengths and government support
Here are some frequently asked questions about industrial development:
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What is industrial development?
Industrial development is the process of increasing the number and size of factories and other industrial facilities in a country or region. It can be achieved through a variety of means, such as government investment in infrastructure, tax breaks for businesses, and the provision of training and education for workers. -
What are the benefits of industrial development?
Industrial development can lead to a number of benefits, including: - Increased economic growth: As factories and other industrial facilities are built, they create jobs and generate income. This can lead to an increase in economic growth.
- Improved infrastructure: Industrial development often requires the construction of new roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. This can improve the Quality Of Life for residents and make it easier for businesses to operate.
- Increased employment: Industrial development creates jobs in a variety of industries, from manufacturing to construction to Services. This can help to reduce Unemployment and improve the standard of living for workers.
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Increased innovation: Industrial development can lead to the development of new technologies and products. This can help to boost the economy and improve the quality of life for residents.
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What are the challenges of industrial development?
Industrial development also faces a number of challenges, including: - Environmental pollution: Factories and other industrial facilities can pollute the air, water, and land. This can have a negative impact on the Health of residents and the environment.
- Social unrest: Industrial development can lead to social unrest, as workers may be displaced from their homes and communities. This can lead to conflict and violence.
- Economic inequality: Industrial development can lead to economic inequality, as the benefits of development are often concentrated in the hands of a few. This can lead to social unrest and political instability.
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Resource depletion: Industrial development can lead to the Depletion Of Natural Resources, such as water, minerals, and forests. This can have a negative impact on the environment and the economy.
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What are the solutions to the challenges of industrial development?
There are a number of solutions to the challenges of industrial development, including: - Investing in environmental protection: Governments can invest in environmental protection measures, such as pollution control and Waste Management. This can help to reduce the environmental impact of industrial development.
- Promoting social inclusion: Governments can promote social inclusion by providing training and education for workers, and by ensuring that the benefits of development are shared widely. This can help to reduce social unrest and inequality.
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Investing in Sustainable Development: Governments can invest in sustainable development, which is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This can help to reduce the environmental impact of industrial development and ensure that the benefits of development are shared widely.
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What is the future of industrial development?
The future of industrial development is uncertain. The global economy is changing rapidly, and the rise of automation and Artificial Intelligence is likely to have a significant impact on the manufacturing sector. It is unclear how industrial development will adapt to these changes. However, it is likely that industrial development will continue to play an important role in the global economy.
Question 1
Assam is a state in northeastern India. It is the largest state in the region by area and the third-largest by population. The capital of Assam is Dispur.
Assam is a land of natural beauty, with lush forests, hills, and rivers. The state is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.
Assam has a rich history and culture. The state was ruled by a number of different dynasties over the centuries, including the Ahoms, the Mughals, and the British.
Assam is a major producer of tea, oil, and natural gas. The state is also home to a number of industries, including manufacturing, textiles, and tourism.
Question 2
The following are some of the major industries in Assam:
- Tea: Assam is the world’s largest producer of tea. The tea industry is a major source of employment in the state.
- Oil and natural gas: Assam is a major producer of oil and natural gas. The oil and gas industry is a major source of revenue for the state government.
- Manufacturing: Assam has a number of manufacturing industries, including textiles, electronics, and food processing.
- Tourism: Assam is a popular tourist destination, with a number of historical and natural attractions.
Question 3
The following are some of the challenges facing the industrial development of Assam:
- Infrastructure: Assam has a poor infrastructure, which is a major obstacle to industrial development. The state has a shortage of roads, railways, and Airports.
- Power: Assam has a shortage of power, which is another major obstacle to industrial development. The state has a number of power plants, but they are not able to meet the demand for power.
- Labor: Assam has a shortage of skilled labor, which is a major obstacle to industrial development. The state has a number of educational institutions, but they are not able to produce enough skilled workers.
- Land: Assam has a shortage of land, which is a major obstacle to industrial development. The state has a number of laws that make it difficult to acquire land for industrial development.
Question 4
The following are some of the opportunities for industrial development in Assam:
- Natural resources: Assam has a number of natural resources, including tea, oil, natural gas, and minerals. These natural resources can be used to develop a number of industries.
- Human resources: Assam has a large population of young people. These young people can be trained to work in the industrial sector.
- Government support: The government of Assam is committed to promoting industrial development. The government has a number of policies and programs in place to support industrial development.
- Market potential: Assam has a large domestic market. The state also has a number of export opportunities.
Question 5
The following are some of the strategies that can be used to promote industrial development in Assam:
- Improve infrastructure: The government should invest in improving the infrastructure in Assam. This includes improving the roads, railways, and airports.
- Increase power supply: The government should invest in increasing the power supply in Assam. This includes building new power plants and transmission lines.
- Develop human resources: The government should invest in developing human resources in Assam. This includes providing training and education to workers.
- Facilitate land acquisition: The government should make it easier to acquire land for industrial development. This includes simplifying the land acquisition process and providing financial assistance to companies that acquire land.
- Provide incentives: The government should provide incentives to companies that invest in Assam. This includes tax breaks, subsidies, and grants.
- Promote exports: The government should promote exports from Assam. This includes providing assistance to companies that export their products.