Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has urged students to remain focused on education and pursue their goals with dedication, hard work and perseverance.
Addressing students at Manohari Devi Kanoi Girls’ College in Dibrugarh, Assam, on Thursday, the Minister highlighted the importance of education in building a successful future. The event also witnessed the distribution of financial assistance under the Assam government’s Nijut Moina and Nijut Babu schemes.
Sonowal said education was essential for acquiring knowledge and realising one’s aspirations. He emphasised that success required sustained effort and commitment, noting that the achievements of successful individuals were often built on years of struggle and sacrifice.
The Minister appreciated the Assam government’s initiatives to reduce financial barriers to education and stressed that no student should be forced to discontinue studies due to a lack of funds.
Recalling his journey from Muluk village in Dibrugarh to the Union Cabinet, Sonowal said his appointment as Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways had given him an opportunity to learn about a new sector.
He said the trust placed in him by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had motivated him to acquire new knowledge and work with dedication.
Highlighting the importance of the maritime sector, Sonowal said ports played a crucial role in connecting Indian products with international markets and facilitating the movement of essential goods. He also highlighted the growing participation of women in the shipping industry.
Describing the 21st century as the century of Nari Shakti, or women’s empowerment, the Minister said the number of women working in the shipping sector had increased from around 1,000 before 2014 to approximately 8,000.
Sonowal also referred to the teachings of Srimanta Sankardeva, emphasising the importance of unity and harmony. He reiterated the Prime Minister’s guiding principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.
-ANI
