Historic Milestone: Himanta Biswa Sarma Becomes First Assam CM to Attend World Economic Forum Davos 2026, Showcases State’s Global Potential
Historic First for Assam on Global Stage
In a landmark achievement for the northeastern state, Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, arrived in Zurich on Monday morning with firm confidence to participate in the prestigious World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos, Switzerland. This marks the first time in history that Assam is officially represented at the world’s most influential gathering of global leaders, policymakers, and business tycoons.
The five-day summit, held from January 19 to 23, 2026, under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” brings together nearly 3,000 participants from over 130 countries. It addresses critical issues like geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, technological transformation, and sustainable development. Himanta Biswa Sarma‘s presence highlights Assam’s rapid rise as a dynamic player in India’s growth story, aligning perfectly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Journey to Davos: Warm Welcome and Key Early Meetings
Departing from Delhi late Sunday night, Himanta Biswa Sarma landed in Zurich on Monday, where he received an enthusiastic welcome from the Indian diaspora community at the airport. This heartfelt reception underscored the pride among the global Assamese and Indian community for the state’s growing international stature.
En route to Davos, the Chief Minister engaged in significant interactions as part of the WEF 2026 activities in Zurich. He held a cordial meeting with Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore. Reflecting on the encounter, Himanta Biswa Sarma praised the President’s consistent warmth and positive outlook toward India, describing the discussion as particularly energizing.
Further strengthening ties, he met Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, World Bank President Ajay Banga, and Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. These early engagements set a positive tone for the summit, focusing on collaborative opportunities in economic development and infrastructure.
Showcasing Assam’s Growth Story at WEF Davos 2026
Assam’s participation in the World Economic Forum is viewed as a bold, visionary step to position the state on the global map. Himanta Biswa Sarma is scheduled to participate in multiple high-level sessions, panel discussions, and bilateral meetings—over 17 in total—while signing several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with international partners.
Key focus areas include Assam’s vast investment opportunities, inclusive growth initiatives, digital revolution, semiconductor projects, tourism potential, healthcare transformation, workforce development, and sustainable development. The Chief Minister will highlight governance reforms, industrial expansion, and technology-driven progress that have made Assam one of India’s fastest-growing states.
A major highlight is Assam’s inclusion in the prestigious Mobil Lighthouse Network, featuring the state’s Hindustan Unilever factory as a beacon of excellence. The Mobil Lighthouse Network Dinner will celebrate new additions and past achievements in sustainable manufacturing and innovation.
The Chief Minister is also set to attend the opening cultural programme, welcome reception, and other prominent events, providing platforms to network with heads of state, CEOs of multinational corporations, and leaders from institutions like the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Trade Organization (WTO).
Boosting Investment and Economic Momentum for Assam and India
This historic debut follows the successful Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit, raising high expectations for fresh investments, strategic partnerships, and job creation in sectors like semiconductors, green energy, tea industry, tourism, and infrastructure.
Himanta Biswa Sarma‘s proactive outreach at Davos is expected to attract global capital, foster public-private collaborations, and accelerate Assam’s integration into the international economic ecosystem. By pitching Assam’s strengths on this elite platform, the Chief Minister aims to translate discussions into tangible agreements that propel the state’s—and India’s—development trajectory forward.
Experts note that Assam’s invitation to represent India at the WEF alongside more industrially advanced states signals strong national confidence in its economic reforms and potential.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Assam’s Global Aspirations
As the summit progresses from Tuesday onward, Himanta Biswa Sarma will continue engaging in forward-looking dialogues that promise substantial benefits. This participation not only elevates Assam’s profile but also reinforces India’s rising stature in global affairs.
With Himanta Biswa Sarma leading the charge, Assam’s journey toward becoming a hub of innovation, investment, and inclusive growth has gained powerful new momentum on the world stage.
