The Assam government has decided to hand over 992 acres of land at Doloo Tea Estate in Cachar district to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the construction of a greenfield airport near Silchar. 

The land transfer, approved by the Cabinet, increases the previously allocated 2,500 bighas to 3,000 bighas (about 992 acres), reflecting a significant step forward for the project. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, addressing the press, emphasised that this decision will enable the state to seek the Union Cabinet’s approval for the new airport. The move comes as the existing Kumbhirgram airport, a defence facility, cannot accommodate the growing air traffic demand.

The new airport will help address the region's connectivity needs. CM Sarma added that this decision follows earlier efforts, including financial assistance given to 1,296 families at Doloo Tea Estate in November 2022.