Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed plans to elevate Assam’s tourism sector to one of the top 10 states in India by 2026-27. The state government, through the 2026-27 Budget, aims to enhance tourism infrastructure and attract more visitors, both domestic and international.
Sarma emphasized the significant growth of Assam’s tourism sector in recent years, attributing it to the increasing support from national and international tourists who favor Assam as a preferred destination. The government is dedicated to sustaining this growth momentum with new policies and investments.
To achieve the goal of positioning Assam among the top 10 states in terms of tourist footfall, the government plans to improve connectivity and upgrade tourism facilities. Currently, Assam welcomes over 76 lakh domestic tourists annually, with expectations of a substantial increase in numbers.
In a bid to promote community-based tourism, a new Homestay Policy will be introduced, offering eligible beneficiaries a 30% capital subsidy and a two percent interest subvention for establishing homestay facilities. This initiative aims to create employment opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas while providing tourists with authentic local experiences.
The Budget also includes proposals for developing five-star hotels in Umrangso, Haflong, and Manas to bolster high-end tourism infrastructure and cater to the rising demand from both domestic and international travelers. The government’s focus is on building world-class tourism infrastructure while conserving Assam’s cultural heritage, wildlife, and natural attractions.
The tourism initiatives are part of a broader strategy to position Assam as a global tourism destination and leverage the sector as a significant contributor to the state’s economy, employment generation, and sustainable development.
