CM Sarma urges industrial growth, raises concern over youth deaths during migration

Udalguri, Feb 13: Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday strongly advocated for rapid industrialisation in Assam, urging people to shed what he termed an “outdated mindset” towards businesses and investment.

He also expressed concern over the growing trend of youth migration and the reported deaths of young workers who leave the State in search of employment.

Speaking at a public programme in Udalguri after launching several developmental initiatives in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), the Chief Minister said Assam’s future depends on welcoming industries and creating jobs within the State.

“If industrial land is developed in Assam, the people of the State should feel happy. We must move away from negative perceptions about businesses and industries. Many who criticise industries eventually work under them. This kind of thinking has held Assam back for years,” Sarma said.

Highlighting the human cost of unemployment and migration, the Chief Minister said the government’s focus on industrial growth is rooted in the need to provide opportunities at home.

“Our aim is to ensure that the children of Assam do not have to leave their families and go outside the State for work. We want them to stay here, live with their parents, and build their future in Assam,” he said.

Sarma claimed that every month several young people from Assam lose their lives after migrating to other parts of the country for employment.

“Every month, around 50 young boys reportedly die after leaving their homes in search of work. This is a painful reality. While we continue debates and old stereotypes, our youth are working outside, often in unsafe conditions. This must change,” he said.

He stressed that the solution lies in attracting industries and generating large-scale employment.

“If we continue with the old mentality and oppose industrialisation, our youth will continue to suffer. We must welcome investors and create jobs. Only then can we prevent migration and ensure safety and dignity for our young people,” he added.

The Chief Minister said Assam has immense potential but needs a transformation in public attitude towards economic growth.

“We should not see business and industry with suspicion. Instead, we must create an environment where investors feel confident. Industrial growth will not only boost the economy but also improve the overall standard of living in the State,” he said.

During the visit, Sarma initiated several development projects in Udalguri aimed at improving governance and connectivity in the BTR. He launched the development of the Sankosh Kherai Complex and a railway overbridge, which are expected to enhance connectivity and public infrastructure in the region.

He also laid the foundation stone for the BTC Mini Secretariat at Udalguri. The five-storey complex will be built over approximately 25 bighas of land at an estimated cost of around Rs 150 crore.

The facility will house various departments of the Bodoland Territorial Council, along with a conference hall and a BTC Legislative Assembly building. It will also include a guest house, residential quarters for officials and staff, internal roads, and parking facilities.

Sarma said such projects, along with industrial growth, will strengthen governance and generate employment in the region.

“These initiatives are part of our larger vision to bring development, create jobs, and ensure that Assam’s youth do not have to migrate. We want them to find opportunities at home and contribute to the State’s progress,” he said.