Union Cabinet Approves Second Northeast IIM in Guwahati, to Set Up Permanent Campus in Palasbari

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Union Cabinet has given its formal approval for the establishment of a new Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Guwahati. This will be the second IIM in the North East region of India, following IIM Shillong, which was set up in Meghalaya. The decision is seen as a major step in strengthening the educational infrastructure of the region and positioning Assam as a rising hub for world-class academic and professional training.

The new IIM will have its permanent campus in Palasbari, located in the Kamrup district of Assam. This site is expected to provide ample space and a suitable environment for the development of state-of-the-art infrastructure. During its formative years, IIM Ahmedabad—one of India’s most prestigious management institutes—will serve as the mentor institution, providing academic guidance, administrative support, and expertise to ensure that the new IIM meets the highest national and international standards from the outset.

According to Chief Minister Sarma, the establishment of this IIM will significantly strengthen Assam’s position as a centre for higher education and skill development, not only in the North East but also in the broader Indian context. The institute will create pathways for world-class management training and will be designed to meet the needs of both domestic and international students. It is expected to offer cutting-edge academic programmes, innovative research opportunities, and specialized courses tailored to the evolving demands of global business and industry.

The presence of the IIM in Guwahati is projected to attract students from across India, especially those seeking high-quality management education in the eastern part of the country. This increased student inflow will likely have a positive impact on the local economy, benefiting sectors such as housing, transport, food services, and other allied industries. Additionally, the institute’s global outlook will open doors for collaborations with international universities, research organizations, and corporate partners, thereby integrating Assam into global academic and economic networks.

Beyond academic benefits, the Chief Minister highlighted the IIM’s potential role in fostering entrepreneurship in the state. By equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and mentorship needed to start and grow businesses, the institute is expected to contribute directly to job creation and economic diversification in Assam. Moreover, through its research and consultancy services, the IIM could help address regional challenges, such as rural development, sustainable resource management, and digital transformation.

The decision to set up the second North East IIM in Assam also aligns with the Government of India’s broader strategy of promoting educational equity and reducing regional disparities. By bringing a top-tier institution to Guwahati, the government aims to ensure that students from the North East have access to the same level of opportunities as those in more developed regions, without having to migrate long distances.

Overall, the new IIM in Guwahati is envisioned not just as an educational institute, but as a catalyst for holistic growth—fueling academic excellence, driving innovation, fostering global engagement, and strengthening Assam’s economic and professional ecosystem in the years to come.