Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has raised concerns over a perceived “soft power shift” within Assamese society. Speaking at a state-level seminar on education and economic development, Sarma warned that Assamese youth and communities are gradually pulling back from competitive spheres. According to him, this trend could have long-term implications for the state’s socio-economic growth and cultural influence in the region.
Chief Minister highlights competitive decline
During his address, Sarma stressed that competition drives innovation, skill development, and leadership. He noted that historically, Assamese society contributed significantly to the arts, literature, governance, and academic excellence. However, he believes the current generation seems increasingly hesitant to embrace high-stakes challenges.
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“Soft power comes not only from cultural heritage but also from active participation in national and global competition,” Sarma said. He warned that without sustained engagement in competitive arenas, Assam risks losing its relative influence in the northeast and beyond.
Concerns over educational and skill gaps
The Chief Minister linked the soft power shift to several socio-economic factors, including education and employment trends. He pointed out that many Assamese students prefer safe career paths or local opportunities rather than pursuing challenging fields with broader recognition. This, he suggested, limits the state’s ability to showcase talent at national and international levels.
Sarma also highlighted skill gaps in emerging sectors such as technology, research, and management. He stressed that unless educational institutions focus on both academic excellence and practical skill development, Assamese youth may continue to lag behind peers from other regions.
Encouraging youth to embrace competition
To address the trend, the Chief Minister called for a cultural shift in mindset. He urged families, educational institutions, and community leaders to encourage youth to take calculated risks, participate in competitions, and explore opportunities beyond Assam.
He emphasized that competition does not mean abandoning local culture. Instead, it strengthens identity by demonstrating excellence on larger platforms. “Assamese youth must carry their heritage confidently into competitive spaces,” he said.
Government initiatives to strengthen skills
The Sarma-led government has already launched several programs aimed at improving employability and skill development. These initiatives include vocational training, digital literacy programs, and industry-linked internships. Sarma argued that such programs are essential for preparing youth to compete nationally and internationally.
He added that the government will focus on nurturing leadership qualities and critical thinking among students. Schools and colleges are being encouraged to organize debates, quizzes, innovation challenges, and entrepreneurship competitions. These platforms aim to enhance confidence and practical skills while preserving Assamese culture.
Cultural heritage and soft power
Sarma underlined that Assam’s soft power has historically been linked to its cultural richness. Music, literature, dance, and festivals have projected the state’s identity far beyond its borders. However, he warned that cultural pride alone is insufficient if it is not paired with achievement in competitive domains.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state’s intellectual and economic influence depends on Assamese society actively engaging in national and global arenas. By stepping back from competition, he said, the community risks becoming less visible and less influential.
Role of educational institutions
Educational institutions, according to Sarma, must play a central role in reversing the trend. He encouraged universities and colleges to introduce programs that challenge students, such as coding competitions, research projects, and national-level examinations. Partnerships with industry leaders and academic institutions from outside Assam can provide exposure and benchmarking opportunities.
He also urged private schools to focus on both academic rigor and skill-based learning. By fostering a culture of competition early, he believes Assam can produce future leaders who are confident, skilled, and globally aware.
Community and family involvement
Beyond education, Sarma highlighted the importance of community and family support. Parents and local organizations, he said, must encourage young people to take on challenges, learn from failures, and persevere. “We must collectively create an environment where Assamese youth feel empowered to compete without fear of losing identity,” he added.
Local cultural organizations and youth clubs can help by promoting events that combine tradition with competition. Examples include literary contests, technology fairs, and entrepreneurship exhibitions that showcase Assamese talent.
Economic implications
Sarma linked the soft power shift to economic consequences as well. Regions that fail to nurture competitive skills often see slower industrial growth, reduced innovation, and limited investment. By contrast, states that promote excellence and skill development attract talent, businesses, and capital.
He argued that Assam could gain a strategic advantage by integrating cultural pride with competitive achievement. A proactive approach could boost both human capital and the state’s economic standing.
Call to action
The Chief Minister concluded his address by calling on all stakeholders to reverse the trend. He urged youth to embrace challenges, families to support ambitious endeavors, and educational institutions to provide the right platforms.
Sarma also emphasized that government schemes alone cannot solve the issue. Active participation from civil society, industry, and cultural institutions is required to strengthen Assam’s soft power while promoting competitive excellence.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s warning about a soft power shift highlights a critical challenge for the state. While Assamese culture remains vibrant, the trend of pulling back from competition could hinder socio-economic growth and regional influence. By combining cultural pride with skill development, education, and active engagement in competitive fields, Assam has the potential to regain its leadership role in the northeast and beyond.
The onus now lies on youth, families, and institutions to rise to the challenge, ensuring that Assam’s rich heritage continues to shine alongside measurable achievements in every sphere.
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