Sarbananda Sonowal Launches Underwater Welding, Offshore Repair & Additive Manufacturing Program at IIT Guwahati
Guwahati, India – On November 24, 2025, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated the Underwater Welding, Offshore Repair and Additive Manufacturing initiative at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati. This program aims to enhance the maritime capabilities of the region and create a skilled workforce in the Northeast.
Significance of the Program
During the inaugural ceremony, Minister Sonowal emphasized the importance of this initiative in establishing IIT Guwahati as a hub for advanced maritime manufacturing. He noted that the Underwater Welding Program is crucial for developing a skilled workforce pipeline for the maritime sector in the Northeast region.
Certification Distribution
At the event, the minister distributed certificates to seven youths who successfully completed the Underwater Welding Certification Program. This program was conducted at the Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) of IIT Guwahati and was supported by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
Live Demonstration of 3D Printing
Shri Sonowal observed a live demonstration showcasing 3D metal printing-based repair of a marine propeller, performed by the IIT Guwahati team. This demonstration highlighted the innovative approaches being developed to enhance maritime repair capabilities.
Government Support and Vision
In his speech, Sonowal credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership for rapidly strengthening India’s maritime capacity. He stated that the government has modernized port connectivity, expanded inland waterways, and accelerated the growth of the blue economy. He emphasized that Assam and the Northeast play a vital role in this national advancement.
Pathway to Advanced Capabilities
Shri Sonowal remarked that the skill development and innovation initiatives at IIT Guwahati have opened a “practical and result-oriented pathway” for building advanced capabilities in underwater welding, offshore repair, and next-generation manufacturing. He expressed confidence that Assam has the potential to become a leading hub for underwater repair and advanced manufacturing.
Strategic Importance of the Northeast
The minister pointed out the strategic importance of the Northeast region, citing its natural waterways and geographical advantages as crucial elements in shaping an advanced maritime ecosystem. He stated, “Technologies such as underwater welding, offshore repair, and 3D printing are essential for building a faster, reliable, and cost-effective maritime and ship repair network.”
Reducing Costs and Delays
Shri Sonowal highlighted the challenges posed by traditional methods that rely on dry docking and imported components, which often result in increased costs and delays in operations. He emphasized that the solutions being developed at IIT Guwahati would pave the way for practical alternatives that strengthen self-reliance in the maritime sector.
Collaboration with Maritime Industries
The Union Minister expressed satisfaction with the successful completion of the certification program by the first batch of candidates, who now hold qualifications that are recognized globally. He urged major shipyards, dockyards, inland waterways authorities, and maritime industries to collaborate closely with IIT Guwahati to build a robust ecosystem for maritime innovation.
Commitment to Innovation and Employment
Shri Sonowal reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening maritime infrastructure, and creating skilled employment opportunities for the youth. He stated that the ministry would respond positively to outcome-oriented proposals from IIT Guwahati and its partners under existing policy and financial frameworks.
Event Attendance
The inaugural event was attended by a range of dignitaries, including IIT Guwahati Director Prof. Devendra Jalihal, researchers, domain experts, leaders from the maritime industry, and students, all of whom gathered to witness this significant advancement in maritime education and technology.
Note: The Underwater Welding, Offshore Repair, and Additive Manufacturing Program at IIT Guwahati represents a significant step towards enhancing India’s maritime capabilities and fostering a skilled workforce in the Northeast region.
