First batch of underwater welders certified; real-time marine propeller repair demonstrated

Guwahati, Nov. 22: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday inaugurated a pioneering initiative in underwater welding, offshore repair, and additive manufacturing (3D printing) at IIT Guwahati — positioning Assam as a future hub for advanced maritime technologies.

At the event, Sonowal handed over certificates to the first cohort of seven underwater welding experts, trained at IIT Guwahati’s Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) with support from the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). The minister also witnessed a live 3D-printed metal repair of a marine propeller, demonstrating India’s capabilities in cost-efficient and rapid maritime maintenance.

Calling the collaborative effort a critical step towards strengthening the blue economy, Sonowal said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has “rapidly modernised port connectivity, expanded inland waterways, and bolstered India’s skilled maritime workforce.”

“Assam has the potential to become a leading centre for underwater repair and advanced manufacturing,” Sonowal asserted. “TIH at IIT Guwahati is poised to become the epicentre of this future.”

He stressed that the Northeast’s strategic location and natural waterways give it a decisive role in shaping an innovative maritime ecosystem. Technologies like underwater welding and offshore repair, he noted, provide practical alternatives to costly dry docking and imported components, thereby enhancing India’s self-reliance in ship repair infrastructure.

Calling for deeper industry–academia partnerships, Sonowal urged major shipyards, dockyards, and inland waterways bodies to collaborate with IIT Guwahati to build a robust industry pipeline and skilled employment opportunities.

“We remain firmly committed to supporting innovation-led proposals from IIT Guwahati and its partners,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by IIT Guwahati Director Prof. Devendra Jalihal, maritime industry leaders, researchers, and students.

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