The “Make in India” initiative was launched by the central government on September 25, 2014, to attract investment, foster innovation, and position India as a global manufacturing hub.
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On its 10th anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the initiative as a testament to the collective resolve of 1.4 billion Indians to transform the nation into a powerhouse of manufacturing and innovation.
However, the manufacturing sector's contribution to India's GDP has stagnated, remaining at 17.3% in 2023-24, the same level as in 2013-14. Despite this, there has been a growing enthusiasm for domestic production across the country. In Assam, the impact of the “Make in India” campaign has been limited. The state’s economy is primarily agricultural, with over 75% of the population reliant on this sector. Although Assam is known for its silk, production remains modest, and power looms have begun to dominate the market. While the upcoming semiconductor unit in Nagaon may spark change, the state has yet to fully embrace the manufacturing spirit. The pressing question is: When will Assam truly harness its potential to "make”?
