A workshop under the Advantage Assam 2.0 initiative was held at the Bodoland Administrative Staff College in Kokrajhar. This workshop focused on accelerating investment and entrepreneurship in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), which includes the four districts of Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, and Udalguri. The event aimed to discuss strategies for economic growth and investment opportunities in these regions, which are often considered underserved but rich in potential. The workshop attracted key government officials, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who explored the ways in which BTR could become a leading economic hub in the state of Assam.
Advantage Assam 2.0, an initiative launched by the state government, seeks to boost investments, both domestic and international, into Assam. It aims to transform the state into a thriving business and industrial hub by leveraging its rich resources, strategic location, and improving infrastructure. The program’s focus is on creating an ecosystem where investments can thrive, and businesses can flourish, leading to overall economic development. This particular workshop was organized to provide the BTR districts with a platform for discussing and exploring ways to attract more investments and strengthen local businesses.
The event in Kokrajhar brought together local entrepreneurs and potential investors to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in BTR. Various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure development, were discussed as potential drivers of economic growth. The local government is keen to boost these sectors, which have substantial growth potential given the region’s strategic location, rich natural resources, and growing demand for development.
Kokrajhar, known for its rich cultural diversity, has long been home to the Bodo people and is an important center for commerce and trade. Chirang, Baksa, and Udalguri, like Kokrajhar, are well-placed to attract attention from investors seeking untapped opportunities. The state government, through initiatives like Advantage Assam 2.0, aims to create a more robust industrial landscape in these areas. The region’s proximity to neighboring states and countries, combined with its rich natural resources, makes it an attractive place for industrial development, tourism, and manufacturing activities.
During the workshop, officials discussed the importance of connecting the region’s local economy with larger national and global markets. The need for infrastructure development, including better roads, transportation, and power supply, was emphasized. These factors are crucial for businesses to thrive in the region and for attracting large-scale investments. Experts also pointed out that the agricultural sector in BTR has great potential for growth, particularly in terms of organic farming and agro-processing industries. This sector can create numerous employment opportunities and promote sustainable development while preserving the region’s environmental balance.
Entrepreneurs from the local area shared their insights and experiences, emphasizing the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in driving the local economy. The government has been working to provide more support to SMEs by offering incentives, financial assistance, and facilitating easier access to resources. The discussion also focused on the importance of creating a business-friendly environment by improving access to finance and addressing bureaucratic hurdles that often hinder growth.
The workshop saw active participation from industry representatives who shared their insights into potential collaborations and partnerships in the region. The discussions also highlighted the need for skill development and training to empower the local workforce and equip them with the tools to meet the demands of a growing economy. It was pointed out that the future of BTR’s economic growth lies not just in attracting investors but also in building a self-sustaining economy through local capacity-building initiatives.
