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Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced funding of more than Rs 1100 crore for 25 inland waterways projects in the Northeastern region. Chairing a review meeting, Sonowal directed officials to prioritize critical projects in his ministries for completion by January 2024.
Out of these 25 inland waterways projects, Assam received grants for 15 programs worth Rs 850 crore. Sonowal emphasized the completion of seven floating jetties in Assam, along with permanent jetties in Dibrugarh and Karimganj. A permanent jetty in Sonamura, Tripura, is also expected to be finished on schedule. Progress is made on the 15 floating jetties in the Brahmaputra and 15 jetties in the Barak river was also reviewed.
Furthermore, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) was instructed to regularly dredge 88 shallow passages in the Brahmaputra river to ensure smooth ship navigation. Sonowal highlighted the commitment to make critical projects in the region operational by January 2024, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Transformation via Transportation."
The Ministry of Ayush is executing projects worth Rs 286 crore in the Northeast, with plans for a Yoga and Naturopathy hospital located in Dibrugarh and a new building for the Regional Research Institute of Homoeopathy and integrated Ayush Wellness Centre in Guwahati, both are to be inaugurated by January 2024.
Additionally, Sonbhadra, a district in Uttar Pradesh previously known for its backwardness, has witnessed significant investment interest. During a global investor meeting, Sonbhadra attracted investment proposals worth Rs 79,000 crore, positioning it as a prominent investment destination. This achievement is attributed to the Yogi Adityanath government's efforts to improve law and order and create a favorable business environment.