Assam has unveiled the Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Policy 2025, a transformative plan aimed at turning the state into India’s next major aviation and defence maintenance hub. Announced on November 25, the policy signals a bold shift in Assam’s industrial ambitions as it seeks to leverage its strategic location in the Northeast. The government envisions the region not just as a gateway to Southeast Asia but as a future powerhouse for military and commercial aviation services.
The policy outlines a comprehensive roadmap focused on building large-scale MRO facilities, attracting defence sector investments, and creating new employment opportunities. Officials say the objective is clear: make Assam a key contributor to India’s national security infrastructure while strengthening the state’s economic foundations.
Aviation and Defence Sectors at the Core
The MRO Policy 2025 centers on rapid expansion of aviation servicing infrastructure, especially for defence aircraft operating in the Northeast. With several strategic air bases already functioning in the region, the state government believes Assam is uniquely positioned to take on a bigger role in servicing both military and civilian fleets. The policy promises extensive support for companies willing to invest in high-tech maintenance facilities.
A major highlight of the new framework is the emphasis on defence collaboration. The government aims to attract major public and private sector players involved in aerospace manufacturing. It also plans to build specialised zones that can host production lines, engine servicing units, and testing facilities. This approach is expected to reduce India’s dependence on foreign MRO hubs while enhancing operational readiness in the region.
Infrastructure Push to Accelerate Growth
To support this industrial shift, the government has laid out plans for new infrastructure corridors, modernised airfields, and dedicated logistics networks. These developments will connect key districts with nearby airports and defence establishments. The policy encourages the creation of multi-modal transport hubs that integrate road, air and river routes—an approach expected to significantly reduce transit time for heavy equipment.
Officials have also highlighted the role of Assam’s expanding industrial parks. Many of these zones will be upgraded to host aerospace suppliers and component manufacturers. The state believes that building a robust local ecosystem will attract global aviation companies that are looking to shift operations closer to India’s northeastern defence command.
Massive Employment and Skill Development Push
One of the most ambitious aspects of the MRO Policy 2025 is its workforce development plan. The state government aims to train thousands of youth under new technical programs aligned with aviation engineering needs. This includes partnerships with national institutes and international training agencies.
The policy states that Assam could become a major recruitment center for India’s defence aviation workforce. With specialised training in aircraft structures, avionics, engines and maintenance operations, the state hopes to produce highly skilled technicians who can serve both domestic and global markets. This long-term investment in human capital is likely to create a steady pipeline of jobs across engineering, manufacturing, logistics and administrative sectors.
Investment Incentives to Attract Global Players
To bring large aviation companies to Assam, the policy offers a range of incentives, including tax rebates, capital subsidies, and support for advanced R&D operations. The government has emphasized ease of doing business, assuring investors streamlined approvals and long-term land support. These incentives are expected to boost Assam’s competitiveness compared to other Indian states with established MRO clusters.
Experts say the Northeast’s proximity to Southeast Asia gives Assam a distinct advantage. The state is positioning itself as an affordable and strategically located alternative to MRO hubs in Singapore, Malaysia and Dubai. By strengthening its industrial network and offering global-standard facilities, Assam hopes to tap into the rapidly growing demand for aircraft maintenance in Asia.
A Strategic Vision Aligned With National Goals
The MRO Policy 2025 aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence and aerospace sectors. Assam’s leadership has repeatedly emphasized that the state wants to contribute meaningfully to India’s military capabilities while building a strong economic foundation for its own citizens. The policy’s long-term vision reflects this dual objective, combining national security imperatives with local development goals.
Officials believe that by 2030, Assam could emerge as one of the top aviation maintenance hubs in India. The government is urging entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to explore opportunities under the new policy. It has also encouraged educational institutions to upgrade technical programs to meet future workforce demand.