Union Minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, visited the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati to assess its progress and chart its future direction. Majumdar’s visit highlighted the importance of research and innovation in bolstering national growth and enhancing global competitiveness.
During his tour of IIT Guwahati, the minister praised the institute’s advancements in research and technological innovation, especially in fields significant to the Northeast region's development. His visit underscores the government’s focus on enhancing the region’s educational and research capabilities, emphasising harnessing these advancements for regional and national development.
Majumdar also interacted with media representatives, expressing his appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in promoting education and innovation nationwide. He emphasised that institutions like IIT Guwahati are critical growth drivers, regionally and nationally, and stressed the need to leverage their research outputs to compete globally.
A key highlight of the visit was the inauguration of a cutting-edge drug testing facility at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) in Kamrup, Assam. The facility was developed with a grant of Rs 17.5 crore under the Science and Technology Intervention in the North East Region (STINER) programme. This facility is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing pharmaceutical research and supporting the health sector in the region.
As per India Today reports, Majumdar discussed the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), emphasising the need to foster inclusive learning opportunities for youth, particularly in the Northeast. He encouraged educational institutions to align with the NEP’s objectives, which include broadening access to quality education and promoting skill development.
The minister urged IIT Guwahati and other institutions to intensify their focus on research and innovation, stating that these are essential for boosting India’s global competitiveness. His visit is part of the government’s broader commitment to accelerating the growth of the Northeast through education, research, and innovation.
Dr. Sukanta Majumdar’s visit to IIT Guwahati reinforces the government’s dedication to promoting excellence in education and supporting technological advancement. Through continued focus on research, innovation, and infrastructure development, institutions like IIT Guwahati are set to play a vital role in the region’s future growth trajectory.