Daijiworld Media Network - Golaghat
Golaghat, Sep 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Assam on Sunday, underscored India’s remarkable progress in renewable energy and highlighted Assam’s pivotal role in shaping the country’s future in both green fuels and semiconductor technology.
Speaking at a public event, PM Modi said, “Ten years ago, India was far behind in solar power. Today, we’re among the top five nations globally in solar energy capacity.”
He stressed the importance of shifting to alternative fuels like ethanol to reduce dependence on traditional oil and gas. The Prime Minister inaugurated a new bio-ethanol plant that uses bamboo as raw material — a move he said will transform the local economy.
“This ethanol plant will open up new livelihood opportunities for farmers and tribal communities,” Modi said, adding that the government has arranged steady bamboo supply mechanisms. “Farmers will be supported in bamboo cultivation, and small chipping units will be set up in the area. Around Rs 200 crore will be spent annually to support this sector, benefiting thousands of locals.”
Taking a dig at previous governments, PM Modi recalled a time when cutting bamboo was punishable by law. “Bamboo, a daily-use resource for tribal people, was considered a ‘tree’ and cutting it could land you in jail. We scrapped that law. Today, bamboo is powering Assam’s economy.”
Shifting focus to India’s tech ambitions, the Prime Minister said Assam is at the heart of the country’s Semiconductor Mission — a national programme aimed at building India's self-reliance in chip manufacturing.
He praised Assam's legacy, saying, “Just like Assam Tea became a global identity, Assam will now lead India into a new era of semiconductor technology.”
Highlighting the significance of semiconductors in devices ranging from mobile phones and vehicles to satellites, PM Modi explained, “To become truly Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant), India must produce its own chips.”
He proudly announced that a massive Rs 27,000 crore semiconductor factory is being set up in Morigaon, calling it a symbol of Assam’s rising contribution to India’s future.
“Whether it’s green energy or high-tech electronics, Assam is powering the new India,” PM Modi concluded.