In a major development for the inland waterway economy, the Central Government has approved the establishment of a ₹188-crore Regional Centre of Excellence for Maritime Skills in Dibrugarh, Assam. This move is set to revolutionize skill development, maritime logistics, and trade operations in Northeast India.
This strategic initiative aims to unlock the untapped potential of the region’s vast river networks, particularly the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers, as viable, eco-friendly transport corridors.
Why This Centre Matters for the Northeast
For decades, the Northeast has relied heavily on road and rail networks that struggle with terrain and weather. Inland waterways offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative.
With the Regional Centre of Excellence for maritime skills in Northeast India, the government envisions:
- A trained workforce for the inland waterway logistics industry
- Boosted trade with Southeast Asian countries via water corridors
- Enhanced employment opportunities in shipping, navigation, and port management
- Improved regional connectivity and export capacity
According to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal,
“This Centre will make the Northeast a hub for skilled maritime professionals and inland navigation.”
What Will the Regional Centre Offer?
The new Centre, to be built in Dibrugarh, will offer:
- Courses in maritime logistics, navigation, and safety
- Simulator-based training for vessel operations
- River pilot and dredging certification programs
- Research on inland vessel technologies
- Collaboration with global maritime institutes
Focus on Youth and Industry Demand
With a population that’s over 60% below age 35, the Northeast has a large talent pool. The Centre will help channel that potential into the booming logistics and shipping industry.
Moreover, demand for trained maritime professionals is growing steadily with the government’s push for multi-modal transport integration under the Gati Shakti Master Plan.
Strategic Location: Why Dibrugarh?
The decision to place the Centre in Dibrugarh is no coincidence. Situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra and near the National Waterway-2, Dibrugarh is emerging as a key inland port.
The city already hosts logistics parks, shipyards, and cargo terminals, making it ideal for hands-on training and industry-linked education.
“We want students to learn next to the river, in real-life maritime conditions,” said an official from the Inland Waterways Authority of India.
Supporting Inland Waterway Projects in Northeast India
The Centre complements several ongoing waterway projects, including:
- Jogighopa Multi-Modal Logistics Park
- Sadiya-Dhubri water cargo corridor
- India-Bangladesh Protocol Route enhancements
These projects are expected to reduce transport costs by up to 30% while increasing regional trade efficiency.
Learn more about India’s inland waterways on the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways official site.
Alignment with Skill India and Act East Policy
The Centre also supports key national policies:
- Skill India Mission: Empowering youth with job-ready maritime skills
- Act East Policy: Enhancing connectivity with Southeast Asia
- NEP 2020: Promoting vocational education and industry collaboration
You can follow the latest government announcements via the Skill India Portal.
Local and Industry Response to the Approval
The announcement has been widely praised by local leaders, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders. Many see it as a turning point in the economic transformation of Northeast India.
“This will open new career paths for our youth and attract investment into the region,” said Prof. Anuradha Deka of Dibrugarh University.
Private shipping companies have also expressed interest in campus recruitment and joint research projects, indicating a strong demand pipeline.
Invest in the Future of Maritime India
The Regional Centre of Excellence for maritime skills in Northeast India represents a bold step forward. But its success will depend on public-private partnerships, academic collaboration, and local support.
Are you a maritime entrepreneur, educator, or logistics leader?
Now is the time to partner with this transformational initiative.
A Sea of Opportunities for Northeast India
The ₹188-crore investment in the Regional Centre of Excellence is not just about infrastructure. It’s about people, purpose, and potential. As India reimagines its logistics and connectivity blueprint, the Northeast is finally getting the recognition—and resources—it deserves.
The Centre is expected to start construction by early 2026, with training programs launching soon after.
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