Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Highlights Landmark Developments in Assam

Minister of State for Education and Development of the North East Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, visited Guwahati today to inaugurate key projects and review advancements in the educational and research sectors.

Inauguration of Central Animal and In Vitro Drug Testing Facilities at NIPER

At the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) – Guwahati, the first national pharma institute in Northeast India, Dr. Majumdar inaugurated the Central Animal and In Vitro Drug Testing Facilities. Sponsored by the North Eastern Council under the aegis of Ministry of DoNER, these facilities were funded under the Science & Technology Intervention in North Eastern Region (STINER) programme.

“This project aligns with the visionary leadership of Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji, transforming Northeast India into a beacon of development and innovation,” Dr. Majumdar stated. The facilities, with an investment of ₹20 crore, will advance research on herbal medicines from indigenous plants.

Key Objectives of the Facility:

• Establish a fully equipped Animal House for drug discovery.
• Evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional medicines.
• Create a breeding facility for Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) animals.
• Conduct skill development programs for students.

During his visit, Dr. Majumdar planted a sapling as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, which aims to plant 80 crore trees by September 2024 and 140 crore by March 2025. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Review Meeting at IIT Guwahati on Higher Education

Dr. Majumdar chaired a review meeting at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati to assess the status and prospects of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in Assam and North East India. Discussions focused on enhancing education quality and infrastructure development, with the goal of empowering the youth of our nation.

Inauguration of the Centre for Brahmaputra Studies at Gauhati University

Later, Dr. Majumdar inaugurated the Centre for Brahmaputra Studies Building at Gauhati University, aimed at sustainable development and research on the Brahmaputra River. The Centre will be a hub for research, policy-making, and knowledge sharing, providing critical insights for the millions reliant on the river.

“This Centre reflects our government’s vision for holistic development in the North East, rooted in sustainability and innovation,” he remarked.

Key Features of the Centre for Brahmaputra Studies:

• Conduct multidisciplinary research on the Brahmaputra’s impact.
• Establish a data repository for research and policymaking.
• Collaborate with national and international institutions to address challenges like floods and erosion.
• Focus on capacity building through training and awareness programs.

Supported by the North Eastern Council (NEC) with a funding of ₹28 crores, the Centre is poised to become a globally recognized institution dedicated to addressing the challenges of the Brahmaputra River.

Dr. Majumdar emphasized that under Hon’ble Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Ministry of DoNER is committed to enriching the education sector in North East India, positioning it as a hub of knowledge and development that contributes to the nation’s progress.