Assam witnesses major rail boost as Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flags off three trains

In a landmark event for Assam's transportation and technological advancement, three new trains were flagged off from Guwahati today, marking another step toward improved connectivity in the Northeast. 

The event witnessed the participation of Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The trains flagged off include the Guwahati-New Lakhimpur Janshatabdi Express, the New Bongaigaon–Guwahati Passenger Train, and the Tinsukia–Naharlagun Express. 

These new services aim to enhance regional connectivity, catering to passengers' travel needs across Assam and adjoining regions.

Addressing the gathering, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the transformative vision for the Northeast region.

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“The Northeast now means 'New Engine' that will drive India forward,” he declared, underlining the government’s commitment to integrating the region with the broader national development framework.

The minister also touched upon the synergy between transportation and education, linking the New Education Policy (NEP) to industrial and academic collaboration.

“An important aspect of the NEP is better coordination between industry and academia. When this happens, employability increases,” he said. He announced a new beginning for Assam by converting NIELIT (National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology) into a university. “The vision is to have 'Made in Assam' chips being used in cars in Germany,” Vaishnaw added, reflecting the government’s focus on making Assam a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hailed the flagging off of the trains as a step toward realizing the state’s aspirations for growth and connectivity. He thanked the Central government for its continued efforts in modernizing Assam’s infrastructure and enabling progress across multiple sectors.

The addition of these trains is expected to significantly improve mobility within Assam and its neighbouring states, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. As the Northeast region undergoes rapid development, the launch of these services represents a step forward in bridging gaps and empowering local communities.