Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Friday that the state is in advanced negotiations with the central government to establish India's third defence corridor, following those in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
This development follows Sarma's recent meeting with Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi, where they discussed the potential for a defence corridor in Assam.
Sarma expressed optimism about the proposal, stating that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had responded positively and that the proposal is under "advanced consideration." However, he noted that the process might take some time due to its sensitive nature.
If approved, the corridor is expected to transform Assam into a hub for manufacturing aircraft, helicopters, missiles, and other weapon systems.
Sarma said that the state's ecosystem would receive a significant boost if the defence corridor is established alongside the semiconductor facility.
During his announcement, Sarma highlighted the state's efforts to push for the defence industry and the production of defence equipment, which would generate employment opportunities.
He stated that Assam should be involved in the repair of helicopters and aircraft and engage in the manufacturing of AK-47s and machine guns.
"All defence items should be produced in Assam. It is like any other industry, but because it is the defence industry, it is a bit sensitive," Sarma added.
A defence corridor is a strategic route designed to align domestic production of defence equipment from both public and private sectors, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
This initiative aims to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the nation's armed forces.
In addition to his meeting with Rajnath Singh, Sarma met with several other Union ministers to discuss various projects and issues.
He met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss funding for a satellite township near Guwahati, the expansion of the Brahmaputra Valley Fertiliser Corporation in Namrup, and the commissioning of its fourth unit.
Sarma also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who assured him that the issue of Aadhaar cards, which were blocked while taking the biometrics for updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC), would be resolved at the earliest.
During his meeting with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Sarma requested a special train service from Guwahati to Lucknow to facilitate pilgrimages to the Ram Temple.
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