Guwahati, October 30: Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of a ₹1,800 crore cement manufacturing plant of JK Lakshmi Cement at Umrangso in Dima Hasao district on Friday, marking a significant step towards expanding industrial investment in the state’s hill region.
The proposed industrial project is expected to generate more than 1,000 employment opportunities, providing a potential boost to the local economy. The investment forms part of the Assam government’s efforts to promote industrial growth and attract major businesses to different parts of the state.
Announcing the project, Sarma highlighted the transformation of Dima Hasao, a district that had previously witnessed insurgency-related disturbances. He linked the region’s improving investment prospects to the peace agreement signed in 2023, which sought to bring an end to armed insurgency involving Dimasa militant groups.
The Chief Minister described the upcoming cement plant as another milestone in Assam’s industrial development, following recent investment initiatives in Tinsukia. He emphasised that the government’s focus has shifted towards attracting industries, generating employment and creating new economic opportunities in previously conflict-affected areas.
The project also represents progress under the Advantage Assam 2.0 investment initiative. According to the Chief Minister, the proposed cement plant has advanced from the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to the foundation-stone stage within approximately 20 months.
Sarma attributed this progress to improved conditions for investment, greater stability and the state government’s efforts to facilitate business activities.
The proposed facility at Umrangso is expected to strengthen industrial activity in Dima Hasao and create employment opportunities for people in the region once the project becomes operational.
The foundation-stone ceremony marks an important stage in the project’s development, although the construction schedule and expected commissioning date have not yet been specified in the announcement.
The investment reflects Assam’s continuing push to expand its manufacturing sector and encourage industrial development beyond its established urban and commercial centres.
