Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma concluded his three-day visit to Japan, aimed at fostering stronger economic and cultural ties between Assam and Japan. The visit was part of the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit, a global outreach initiative to attract investment and promote Assam as a strategic investment destination.
Economic and Investment Opportunities
During his visit, Dr. Sarma met with over 160 Japanese business leaders in Tokyo, highlighting Assam's robust economic growth and business-friendly policies. He emphasized Assam's GDP growth from USD 29 billion in 2013-14 to USD 68.7 billion in 2023-24, with an impressive annual growth rate of 12.4%. The Chief Minister also showcased Assam's USD 3 billion Production Linked Incentives (PLI) scheme, aimed at attracting large-scale investments.
Dr. Sarma proposed the establishment of a Japanese industrial township near Jagiroad, where TATA Electronics is building a Rs 27,000-crore semiconductor facility. This township will offer a green-powered environment and the necessary infrastructure to support Japanese entrepreneurs.
Cultural and Historical Connections
Dr. Sarma paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Edogawa Ward in Tokyo, emphasizing the enduring message of peace and non-violence. He also visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, laying a wreath to commemorate the victims of the Hiroshima nuclear bomb attack.
The Chief Minister highlighted the deep-rooted shared values between India and Japan, particularly the spiritual connection through the teachings of Gautam Buddha. He also visited the bust of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, paying homage to his contributions to India's freedom struggle.
Sector-Specific Collaborations
Dr. Sarma held discussions with leaders from various sectors, including:
Automobiles: Met with Terutoshi Hamano from Toyota Motor Corporation, urging them to set up an automobile ancillary unit in Assam.
Renewable Energy: Discussed Assam's renewable energy targets with Hirohide Hirai, Vice President of Hitachi.
Healthcare: Invited Konoike Transport to explore investment opportunities in Assam's healthcare sector, emphasizing plans to construct 23 new medical colleges and hospitals.
Tourism: Emphasized Assam's potential as a tourist destination, highlighting attractions such as Charaideo Moidams, Kaziranga National Park, and tea gardens.
Educational And Skilling Initiatives
Dr. Sarma invited Japanese universities to establish partnerships with Assam's universities, proposing joint degree programs and student exchange programs to bolster research and skilling. He also requested the establishment of testing centers for the Technical Intern Training and Specified Skill Workers' program to provide Assam's youth with better access to short-term work opportunities in Japan.
Parting Thoughts
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma's visit to Japan underscores Assam's proactive efforts to deepen its international ties and attract global investments. By highlighting the state's economic potential, cultural connections, and strategic importance, Assam aims to build a bridge of shared values, innovation, and industrial progress with Japan.
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