India is set to open new employment horizons for the youth of the Northeast, with Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announcing that 50,000 people from the region will find employment in the maritime sector over the next decade. The initiative, tied closely with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030, aims to transform the country into a top global shipbuilding hub while boosting economic opportunities for the Northeast, a region with immense but underutilised river potential.
Speaking at a press conference in Guwahati, Sonowal shared the government’s commitment to equipping local youth with the necessary skills for the maritime industry. The Northeast Skill Development Centre has already been established to train candidates, while a cutting-edge maritime training institute is under development in Dibrugarh, set to become a centre of excellence for maritime education and skilling.
Infrastructure Push Along the Brahmaputra
Sonowal outlined plans to strengthen inland waterway infrastructure to enhance navigation and safety along the Brahmaputra River, which is central to the Northeast’s connectivity goals. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways will construct four lighthouses in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Silghat, and Biswanath, which will guide vessels, assist in weather forecasting, and serve as tourism attractions to draw more visitors to the river’s banks.
Highlighting the increasing global interest in India’s inland waterways, Sonowal mentioned that Germany-based Rhenus Logistics recently conducted a feasibility study on the Brahmaputra, Barak, and Ganga rivers, confirming the viability of these waterways for shipping operations. The company plans to introduce Burgess ships on these routes starting November, with 100 vessels expected to operate within two years, further enhancing inland waterway trade and logistics in the region.
Water Metro and Jetties to Boost Connectivity and Tourism
To promote tourism while enhancing regional connectivity, the Union Minister announced plans to launch a water metro service in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Tezpur, allowing tourists and locals to experience the beauty of the Brahmaputra through modern and safe waterway transport.
Additionally, the Ministry has approved the construction of 85 community jetties along the Brahmaputra, which will facilitate passenger ferries, cargo vessels, and other boats, significantly improving transport and trade across Assam. These jetties will become vital links for communities along the river, ensuring smoother connectivity and boosting economic activities.
Sonowal emphasised that under the Maritime India Vision 2030, India is working towards becoming one of the world’s top 10 shipbuilding nations by 2030 and among the top five by 2047, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to transform India into a leading maritime nation. The expansion of shipping companies into the Northeast, supported by modern skilling initiatives and infrastructure development, is expected to generate significant employment while transforming the region’s connectivity and trade landscape.
