Union Minister Scindia Launches Major Development Initiatives in Assam

Inauguration of NEST Cluster and Development Projects

Guwahati, Nov 3: Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, the Union Minister for Communications and the Development of the North Eastern Region, has inaugurated the North Eastern Science and Technology (NEST) Cluster at IIT Guwahati. He also laid the groundwork for significant development projects totaling Rs 635 crore throughout Assam, as stated in an official announcement on Monday.

The initiatives are designed to enhance growth and connectivity in Assam, featuring the construction of 65 new secondary school buildings at a cost of Rs 455 crore, the upgrading of the Chayagaon–Ukium road with an investment of Rs 102.69 crore, and the building of an RCC Bridge at Silonijan-Dhansiri Par Ghat for Rs 20.59 crore.

Additionally, the minister laid the foundation stones for industrial estates in Ramphalbil (Kokrajhar) with an investment of Rs 14.40 crore and in Lakhibazar (Baksa) at a cost of Rs 18.40 crore.

Scindia emphasized the human aspect of these projects, stating, “Every brick laid and every classroom built is a promise kept in the service of aspiration.”

The NEST Cluster, established with an investment of Rs 22.98 crore, aims to be the central hub for innovation in the Northeast, transforming local knowledge into global solutions. It will focus on four key areas: Grassroots Innovation, Semiconductors and Artificial Intelligence, Bamboo-Based Technologies, and Biodegradable Plastics, according to the official statement.

This cluster will support DoNER’s youth-focused initiatives like NE-SPARKS and Ashtalakshmi Darshan, which will allow 3,200 students from across India to visit the Northeast, while 800 students from the region will have opportunities for scientific exposure visits to ISRO.

The event saw participation from senior officials of the Assam government, representatives from educational institutions, and members of the scientific and entrepreneurial sectors.

Scindia remarked that Assam, historically known as the gateway to India’s eastern renaissance, is now evolving into a hub of innovation and connectivity for a 'Viksit Purvottar'.

During his visit to the IIT Guwahati exhibition, he engaged with students and researchers who were presenting innovations in 6G communication, biodegradable polymers, bamboo tissue culture, and low-field MRI systems aimed at improving healthcare accessibility.

While reviewing the biodegradable polymer project, Scindia noted, “If you get this going, it will be the future,” praising the students’ enthusiasm for scientific inquiry and sustainable innovation.

He highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guidance, the Northeast has seen a significant transformation from being landlocked to becoming land-linked and prepared for the future.

Over Rs 6.2 lakh crore has been invested in the region through the 10 percent Gross Budgetary Support policy, fostering growth, enterprise, and empowerment. He pointed out landmark projects such as the Bogibeel Bridge, Bhupen Hazarika Setu, Sela Tunnel, and Jogighopa Multi-Modal Logistics Park, which have significantly improved Assam’s connectivity.

Scindia also mentioned that the Act East Policy has created new trade opportunities, cutting travel time between Kolkata and Agartala from 31 hours to just 10 hours through new rail and road connections to Bangladesh.

Furthermore, he noted PM Modi’s recent initiatives worth Rs 6,500 crore in Darrang and Rs 18,530 crore across Assam, reaffirming the Centre’s dedication to comprehensive growth in health, education, energy, and industry.