Assam’s youth have the potential to be at the forefront of industrialization, job creation, and entrepreneurship, provided there is consistent policy support, active participation from industries, and dedicated skill development. This insight emerged during a recent webinar held on January 15, entitled “Assam’s Youth and Viksit Bharat 2047: Pathways to Industrialisation, Employment and Entrepreneurship.” The event was organized by ACTION NGO and the Forum for Indian Journalists on Education, Environment, Health & Agriculture (FIJEEHA), in partnership with the National Service Scheme (NSS) Cell of Gauhati University, with backing from Cairn Oil & Gas.
Experts highlighted that over one-third of Assam’s population falls within the 15–34 age group, presenting a demographic advantage that can be utilized for sustained economic growth through targeted interventions. The discussion was in line with the national vision of youth-led development promoted during the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the vital role that Assam’s youth can play in the economic transformation of the state over the next two decades.
Pranjit Tamuli, Senior Executive Officer of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of long-term engagement from industries, stating that consistent industrial growth could generate local job opportunities and enhance Assam’s economy. Dr. Ranjan K. Kakati of the NSS Cell at Gauhati University spoke on the critical role educational institutions must play, asserting that youth development should extend beyond the academic realm. He referenced the National Education Policy (NEP), noting that its focus on skill development, experiential learning, and practical exposure can bridge the gap between education and employability.
Chandrani Sinha, an independent journalist, pointed out a notable trend of reverse migration in the state. She observed that a more favorable environment for industries and jobs is motivating young people to return to Assam. Entrepreneurship was recognized as a significant employment driver, particularly in sectors leveraging local strengths. Guwahati-based textile entrepreneur Priyanka D. Patwari remarked that with a supportive ecosystem, Assam’s youth could establish sustainable enterprises that create jobs locally.
Mriganku Bahak, a development sector expert from Jorhat, stressed the necessity of inclusive growth, stating that true development occurs only when industrial advancements also benefit rural and semi-urban communities. The webinar provided a platform for constructive dialogue among youth, academia, industry, and civil society, reiterating the need for industries to forge long-term partnerships in Assam’s development journey. Additionally, the role of companies like Cairn Oil & Gas in advancing youth empowerment through initiatives such as digital classrooms, mental well-being programs in colleges, support for regional cultural events, and the promotion of sports was highlighted, aligning with the state’s broader developmental objectives.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/from-demographic-dividend-to-growth-engine-assams-youth-at-centre-of-viksit-bharat-2047-1332110-2026-01-16?utm_source=rssfeed
Category:
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-01-16 14:15:00
