Guwahati, July 19: As Assam prepares for the commencement of operations at its upcoming semiconductor manufacturing facility, the state government has unveiled plans to build a local industrial network by connecting Assam’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with the semiconductor supply chain. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the initiative is aimed at ensuring that local entrepreneurs benefit directly from one of the state’s most significant industrial projects.
Announcing the government’s approach in a post on X, Sarma said the focus would be on creating opportunities for Assam-based businesses to become suppliers of goods and services required by the semiconductor industry.
“As the semiconductor facility begins operations in the coming months, our focus is on integrating local entrepreneurs into its ecosystem, enabling them to become part of the broader semiconductor supply chain,” the Chief Minister posted.
Expanding on the proposal in a video message, Sarma said semiconductor manufacturing depends on a wide range of supporting industries that produce essential equipment, tools and components. He noted that the government wants these requirements to be met, as far as possible, by enterprises operating within Assam instead of depending on suppliers from other states.
The Chief Minister said MSMEs would be encouraged to manufacture industrial items used in semiconductor production, while eligible entrepreneurs would receive support, including seed capital, to establish or expand their businesses. The objective, he said, is to create a sustainable ecosystem where local industries grow alongside the semiconductor facility.
According to Sarma, the opportunities will extend beyond manufacturing. Transport operators, logistics companies and other service providers from Assam are also expected to play a role in supporting the project. He said the government wants local businesses to participate in areas such as freight movement, equipment transportation and industrial services required for the smooth functioning of the facility.
Drawing a comparison with the automobile industry, Sarma explained that large manufacturing plants rely on numerous ancillary units that supply specialised components. He said the government intends to replicate a similar model for the semiconductor sector by promoting the establishment of supporting industries across Assam.
To strengthen the availability of skilled manpower, the state government is also working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), IIT Guwahati and other academic institutions. Sarma said these collaborations are intended to prepare a workforce capable of meeting the technical demands of the semiconductor industry.
The Chief Minister further stated that the government has announced a ₹1,200-crore programme aimed at developing the semiconductor ecosystem in Assam. The investment, he said, will support skill development, industrial infrastructure and entrepreneurship while helping local enterprises integrate into the high-technology manufacturing sector.
Sarma added that the ecosystem development initiative has already made considerable progress and expressed confidence that the semiconductor project would generate new employment opportunities, encourage industrial diversification and strengthen Assam’s manufacturing capabilities.
The upcoming semiconductor facility is expected to play a key role in Assam’s industrial expansion strategy, with the state government seeking to maximise local participation by creating long-term opportunities for entrepreneurs, MSMEs and skilled professionals across the semiconductor value chain.
