Preparatory Meeting Held for “Unity Promo Fest – 2025” in Agartala
IIT Guwahati Launches Advanced Maritime Training Programme, Eyes Role as Innovation Hub
Nov 23, 2025IIT Guwahati is poised to emerge as a major centre for maritime innovation in the Northeast, with Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurating a specialised training programme on underwater welding, offshore repair, and additive manufacturing on Saturday.
During the event, seven trainees were awarded underwater welding certifications through the institute’s Technology Innovation Hub in collaboration with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). Sonowal also witnessed a live demonstration of 3D metal printing for the repair of a marine propeller, a technology IIT Guwahati aims to deploy extensively in maritime maintenance and repair operations.
Lauding the initiative, Sonowal said the programme reflects the central government’s commitment to expanding India’s maritime capabilities, adding that the Northeast—particularly Assam—has the potential to become a significant contributor to the country’s Blue Economy.
He highlighted that Assam’s natural waterways and strategic location position it well to serve as a regional hub for ship repair and high-end marine manufacturing. Reducing dependence on traditional dry docking and imported components, Sonowal said, would lower costs, cut delays, and strengthen India’s maritime self-reliance.
Calling the new skill development programme “practical and result-oriented,” the minister said the first batch of certified trainees would find opportunities across global maritime industries. He urged major shipyards, dockyards, and inland waterways authorities to partner with IIT Guwahati to build a strong, innovation-driven maritime ecosystem in the region.
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