IIT Guwahati Hosts Symposium on Underwater Welding, Offshore Repair, and Additive Manufacturing
On November 22, 2025, IIT Guwahati served as a hub for innovation and collaboration as it hosted a symposium focused on underwater welding, offshore repair, and additive manufacturing. This event was organized by the institute’s Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) and attracted a diverse group of participants, including senior academicians, industry experts, government officials, and young researchers. The symposium aimed to advance India’s maritime capabilities through scientific inquiry and national ambition.
Inauguration and Keynote Address
The symposium was inaugurated by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. In his keynote address, Sonowal emphasized the importance of strengthening maritime infrastructure and developing indigenous underwater technologies. He also highlighted the necessity of training a new generation of engineers in specialized marine domains. His message resonated strongly with the attendees, reinforcing the significance of the event.
Contributions from IIT Guwahati Faculty
The event featured prominent figures from IIT Guwahati, including:
- Prof. Devendra Jalihal, Director of IIT Guwahati
- Prof. S. K. Dwivedy, TIH Project Director
- Dr. Sajan Kapil, Assistant Project Director
- Prof. U. S. Dixit, faculty member
- Dr. Asokendu Samanta, IRS Senior Scientist
These individuals played a crucial role in shaping the discussions and technical focus of the symposium.
Underwater Welding Certification Program
A significant highlight of the day was the certificate distribution ceremony for the second batch of India’s Underwater Welding Certification Program. This initiative, led by TIH–IIT Guwahati in collaboration with leading maritime organizations, is the first structured training pathway for underwater welding in India. The program equips trainees with essential operational skills, safety proficiency, and hands-on experience necessary for deep-water assignments.
As participants received their certificates, the atmosphere was filled with smiles and applause, marking a milestone not only for the graduates but also for the growing national ecosystem dedicated to underwater engineering.
Engagement and Knowledge Sharing
Throughout the symposium, participants engaged in expert talks, live demonstrations, and technology showcases. These activities highlighted both the challenges and opportunities present in underwater operations and offshore repair. Key topics included:
- Emerging trends in underwater robotics
- The complexities of structural repair in harsh marine environments
- The increasing relevance of additive manufacturing in enhancing repair systems
Many young researchers expressed that the sessions provided clarity on potential career paths in underwater engineering, a field that is steadily gaining prominence in India.
Fostering Collaboration and Networking
The symposium also facilitated discussions that paved the way for new collaborations among academia, government bodies, and maritime industries. Stakeholders explored long-term strategies to strengthen India’s deep-tech and underwater engineering capabilities. Several attendees described the symposium as a vital platform for exchanging ideas and a catalyst for building stronger research networks across the sector.
Conclusion
The event concluded with a shared sense of purpose, reinforcing TIH’s mission to drive impactful research, specialized training, and technological innovation in areas crucial to India’s maritime future. The symposium not only showcased the advancements in underwater welding and repair technologies but also highlighted the importance of collaboration among various sectors to propel India towards becoming a leader in maritime capabilities.
Note: This article is based on the symposium held at IIT Guwahati and reflects the contributions and discussions that took place during the event.
