Dibrugarh Declared Assam’s Second Capital: A Strategic Leap Toward Inclusive Development

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared Dibrugarh as the second capital of Assam. The decision, revealed during the 2025 Republic Day celebrations, marks a transformative milestone for a city that was once overshadowed by militancy and unrest. Today, Dibrugarh is being reimagined as a thriving urban and economic hub, poised to play a pivotal role in the state’s future.

This move to designate Dibrugarh as Assam’s second capital is not merely symbolic. It reflects a strategic shift in state governance and regional equity. The government aims to enhance the Ease of Living, foster connectivity, and bring administrative focus to Upper Assam, which often lags behind Guwahati in terms of infrastructure and investments.

From Militancy to Modernity: The Evolution of Dibrugarh

Dibrugarh’s history is as complex as it is compelling. Once regarded as a flashpoint for insurgent activity, especially by the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) [ULFA(I)], the city lived under the shadow of curfews, security lockdowns, and sporadic violence. In the past, such associations would have overshadowed any developmental vision for the region.

However, over the years, Dibrugarh has emerged as a symbol of resilience. The same city that once struggled under the burden of extremism is now hosting state-level celebrations and laying the foundation for ambitious urban renewal. This transformation from a centre of conflict to a beacon of progress is not just a testament to effective governance but also to the spirit of the people of Dibrugarh.

Urban Renaissance: Infrastructure and Connectivity at the Forefront

As part of the second capital announcement, the Assam government has launched several major projects to bolster Dibrugarh’s infrastructure. Four new flyovers, with a combined budget of ₹377 crore, have been greenlit. These projects aim to decongest traffic, improve intra-city mobility, and pave the way for smoother logistics and public transport.

In addition to flyovers, comprehensive urban planning is underway to elevate Dibrugarh’s civic amenities to meet the demands of a full-fledged capital city. From better road networks to waste management systems, the focus is clearly on long-term sustainable development.

Economic Vision: Positioning Dibrugarh on the Global Investment Map

Dibrugarh’s strategic rebranding goes beyond governance—it’s a cornerstone of Assam’s economic strategy. During a recent visit to Japan, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma presented Assam as an emerging destination for high-tech investments, with Dibrugarh leading the charge.

Global tech giant Tokyo Electron was among the companies approached to explore investment in semiconductor manufacturing in Assam’s proposed Electronic City. With energy, electronics, and technology sectors in the spotlight, Dibrugarh is now being positioned as a gateway to Northeast India’s economic future.

This push aligns with India’s broader national agenda to become a semiconductor hub, and Dibrugarh’s inclusion in that vision highlights its rising prominence.

Security Challenges: ULFA(I) Still a Concern

Despite the promising developments, Assam’s second capital is not without its challenges. On Republic Day 2025, ULFA(I) claimed responsibility for low-intensity blasts in the state. Though the group emphasized that the blasts were remote-controlled and designed to avoid civilian harm, the incident serves as a reminder of the persisting undercurrents of militancy in the region.

ULFA(I), led by Paresh Baruah, continues to advocate for secession and has a long history of targeting state symbols during national events. While the group’s influence has waned in recent years, its activities pose a potential threat to stability—especially at a time when Assam is striving for global recognition and domestic integration.

A Bold, Balanced Future for Assam

Designating Dibrugarh as Assam’s second capital is not just about geographical redistribution—it’s about vision, inclusion, and resilience. It recognizes that development cannot be Guwahati-centric and that other regions deserve their share of administrative presence, investment, and progress.

The transformation of Dibrugarh from a hotspot of unrest to a strategic centre of development encapsulates Assam’s broader journey: from conflict to confidence, from isolation to integration. If the government can maintain momentum while addressing security concerns, Dibrugarh could very well become a model for how regional cities can rise to meet national challenges.

As the foundations are laid and investments pour in, Assam’s second capital is not just a policy decision—it’s a powerful statement of hope and renewal for the entire state.