Guwahati/New Delhi, 26 May (HS): Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at his official residence and sought his intervention for the establishment of a defence corridor in the state.

Chief Minister Dr. Sarma urged the Defence Minister that the establishment of a defence corridor in Assam will strengthen the needs of the armed forces deployed on the eastern frontier, as well as give impetus to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' vision and create new economic opportunities in the Northeast region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assured that his ministry is actively considering the establishment of a defence corridor in Assam.

Later, Chief Minister Sarma wrote on micro-blogging site X (formerly Twitter), Has the privilege of meeting Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi today. We discussed setting up a defence corridor in Assam. It will strengthen the requirements of our armed forces on the eastern frontier, strengthen the Prime Minister's 'Make in India' vision and generate new economic opportunities in the North-East.

It is noteworthy that the Assam government has formulated the 'Assam Aerospace and Defense Manufacturing Policy 2025', which aims to develop the state as a major hub of aerospace and defense production in India. This policy focuses on attracting investment and promoting innovation by taking advantage of Assam's strategic location, infrastructure and natural resources.

The state's geographical location, proximity to South-East Asia and existing infrastructure are being considered beneficial for investment attraction.

The policy includes capital subsidy, refund of SGST, transport subsidy and production-linked incentive schemes. Also, recognizing the need for skilled human resources in the defense and aerospace sector, incentives have also been provided for skill development.

This policy focuses on key areas such as aircraft manufacturing, defense equipment production, avionics, MRO services, simulation and research and development.

This vision of Assam is in line with the Ministry of Defense's target of a turnover of $ 26 billion (including $ 5 billion exports) in aerospace and defense production by 2025. The state government is making active efforts towards partnerships with domestic and international defense manufacturers, startups and technology leaders.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash