The success of Advantage Assam 2.0 is well deserved. Hard work and planning based on a vision have made this possible. However, an MoU, as most will tell you, is just the beginning. Under no circumstances these are binding commitments. Industry captains are used to signing memorandums in such summits. This gives them choices but finally it is the facilities provided by the State Government and the efficiency at the ground that result in these MoUs coming back in the form of investments into the State.
The Government of Assam would do well to ensure that all the hard yards put in by it, led from the front by the Chief Minister, does not go into vain for whatever reason. Follow-up visits, constantly being in touch with stakeholders, and more follow ups will signal to these investors that Assam means business.
Also important is to send a signal that Advantage Assam 2.0 has the support of all and sundry. The sectors have been carefully chosen by the Government, and serious interests have been generated. The question now will be to nurture the nascent eco-system into practicality. Even if 50% of what has been promised turns into a reality, one can be assured that Assam 2.0 will be different from its previous avatar. Complacency has no place in business.
