GUWAHATI: The Government of Assam and the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to India on Tuesday, June 9, launched the Blue Valley Cluster in Guwahati, focusing on the flavours, fragrance and AYUSH sectors, marking a new phase of cooperation between Assam, the North-East region and Europe.
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The initiative, led by the Assam government, is aligned with the priorities outlined in the EU–India Comprehensive Strategic Agenda adopted during the EU–India Summit in January 2026. It forms part of the broader Blue Valleys initiative aimed at fostering collaboration in sectors of mutual interest through innovation, investment and sustainable industrial development.
The launch programme was attended by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, European Union Ambassador to India Hervé Delphin, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs Sibi George, Belgian Ambassador to India Didier Vanderhasselt, senior government officials, members of the European diplomatic corps, representatives of the Federation of European Businesses in India (FEBI), industry leaders and institutional stakeholders.
The Blue Valley Cluster is expected to promote research, innovation, investment and industrial cooperation between Indian and European entities while strengthening value chains linked to natural products and wellness industries.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Delphin said Assam holds significant potential due to its natural resources, skilled workforce and strategic location as a gateway to the North-East. He said the Blue Valleys initiative would serve as a corridor connecting European and Indian businesses while ensuring that cooperation benefits local communities and promotes environmental sustainability.
The ambassador also highlighted ongoing EU-supported initiatives in Assam, including urban development projects under CITIIS 2.0 in Guwahati and the Barak River Basin Management Action Plan, and said the partnership was now expanding into investment and industrial cooperation.
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said Assam's partnership with the European Union reflects a shared commitment to building resilient, sustainable and innovation-driven economies. He identified semiconductors and electronics, defence and aviation, tea, agarwood, organic food products, natural fragrances and flavours, and AYUSH-based wellness products as key areas for future collaboration.
He said the state aims to connect farmers, women-led self-help groups, startups, researchers and industries with international value chains through platforms such as Blue Valleys, creating opportunities for technology transfer, employment generation and inclusive growth.
According to a joint press release, the Blue Valley Cluster pilot project is expected to create new opportunities in the bioeconomy sector by linking Assam's biodiversity, innovation ecosystem and local enterprises with international markets. The initiative is also expected to support farmers, entrepreneurs, women and youth through skill development, employment generation and enhanced access to global value chains.
