Why in news?
During India Maritime Week 2025, IWAI signed MoUs worth around ₹3,000 crore with multiple partners including Assam Petro-Chemicals Ltd. and the Government of Assam, focusing on strengthening Assam’s inland water transport network and logistics ecosystem. 
 
Key facts about the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI)

• Established on October 27, 1986, under the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act, 1985.
• Functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
• Responsible for development, regulation, and maintenance of national inland waterways.
• Headquarters located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, with regional offices across India.
• Manages 111 national waterways for shipping and navigation.
• Develops infrastructure like terminals, jetties, and navigational aids.
• Promotes cargo and passenger movement via inland waterways to reduce logistics costs.
• Supports river cruise tourism and regional connectivity projects, especially in the Northeast.

Significance for Northeastern region

• Geographical Connectivity: The Northeast is characterized by challenging terrain with hills, mountains, and dense forests, making road and rail connectivity difficult and expensive. Inland waterways offer a natural and efficient alternative for transport through rivers, reducing dependency on difficult land routes.
• Economic Development: Improved water transport infrastructure under IWAI facilitates trade and commerce by lowering transportation costs for goods and raw materials. This boosts local economies and helps integrate the Northeast with the rest of India and neighboring countries.
• Resource-Rich Region: The region has abundant natural resources and agro-based products. Efficient waterways can enable easier movement of these products to markets domestically and for export, enhancing livelihoods and economic opportunities.
• Tourism Potential: Northeast India is known for its scenic rivers and cultural heritage. IWAI’s initiatives to develop waterways for passenger transport and river cruises can boost tourism, generating employment and cultural exchange.
• Strategic Importance: Given the Northeast’s international borders with several countries, improving inland water transport supports strategic and defense logistics, besides promoting regional cooperation and connectivity within the Act East policy framework.

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