Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday emphasised on the role of waterways in improving domestic connectivity as well as regional integration.
Harnessing the potential of this sector will also bring a new era of growth for the country’s North Eastern region, the Union minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways added.
Inaugurating a two-day Waterways Conclave-2022 here, Sonowal said the meet will immensely benefit the North Eastern states and help in harnessing the domestic and international potential of waterways ecosystem in the region.
He also highlighted that inland water transportation sector will play an important role in improving domestic connectivity and regional integration in the country.
He added that India has already signed bilateral agreements with Bangladesh to strengthen inland water transportation and maritime relations.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Conclave, the Union minister said a waterways ecosystem that will connect India with its neighbouring nations and lead to newer job opportunities is being developed under the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat vision.
“Waterways will usher in a new era of growth in the country’s North-eastern region,” Sonowal added.
As many as six MoUs will be signed during the Conclave that seeks to deliberate on collaborative opportunities in the waterways sector between India and its neighbouring nations.
On the opening day, a technical session on regional connectivity through waterways was also held.
Countries like Netherlands, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Bangladesh are participating in the meet.
Sonowal also inaugurated an exhibition at the venue on Monday, with participation of 40 national and international companies, including a delegation of eight leading Dutch companies.
The Conclave is also taking forward the vision of “Vocal for Local” by giving a platform to local companies to highlight Assam’s handicrafts and tea in the exhibition.
