By Firstdespatch Desk Aug 27, 2026
Guwahati, Aug 27 (FD) Northeast India is poised to play a crucial role in the country’s space technology journey, moving beyond being users of space-based technologies to becoming developers, testing grounds and emerging commercial markets for innovative space-enabled solutions, Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu said.
The Governor made the remarks while participating in the Northeast India Space Workshop 2026, organised on the theme “Leveraging Space Technology: Regional Transformation to Global Reach” at FREMAA, AWC, Guwahati, on Thursday morning.
The workshop was organised by the Space Industry Association of India (SIA-India) in partnership with the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) as part of the National Space Day celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Nallu highlighted the unique geographical and developmental requirements of the Northeast and said these factors create significant opportunities for the region to harness space technology for transformative growth. He pointed to the potential of space applications in improving public services, connectivity, agriculture, disaster management and sustainable development.
The Governor said Tripura, along with the other northeastern states, is poised to move from the periphery to the forefront of India’s space technology journey. He emphasised that the region is at a pivotal stage where science and technology can come together to develop solutions that are scalable, sustainable and transformative.
Highlighting Tripura’s achievements, Governor Nallu referred to the launch of the Northeast’s first Digital Forest Rights Act (FRA) Atlas, developed with the support of the Tripura Space Applications Centre (TSAC) as the technology and knowledge partner.
He described the initiative as more than a technological achievement, saying it reflects a commitment to protecting the rights, dignity and interests of tribal communities through scientific planning, technology-driven governance and inclusive development.
According to the Governor, geospatial and space-based technologies can also strengthen transparency, efficiency and informed decision-making in the implementation of the Forest Rights Act.
The workshop brought together senior government officials, policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, startups and international partners. Discussions focused on the role of space-based applications in accelerating socio-economic development, strengthening public service delivery, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and creating new opportunities for the youth of Northeast India.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India. Special addresses were delivered by Pallav Kumar Jha, Secretary, Science and Technology, Government of Assam, and Dr. Srinivas Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India. FD SB