DU scholars push for maritime research centre, funding reforms

Dibrugarh: The Dibrugarh University Research Scholars’ Association (DURSA) has called for the early establishment of a Centre for Maritime and Riverine Studies (CMRS) at the university, along with the creation of a dedicated research cell under the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways (MoPSW), in a memorandum submitted to Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday.The memorandum, presented to Sonowal, who also serves as the local Member of Parliament and holds the ports, shipping and waterways portfolio, outlined several critical academic and research-related proposals aimed at strengthening the research ecosystem for scholars at Dibrugarh University.The proposed Centre for Maritime and Riverine Studies would be established in collaboration with MoPSW, marking a significant step toward developing specialised research capabilities in maritime and inland waterway studies in the northeastern region.Complementing this initiative, DURSA has also requested the creation of a MoPSW Research Cell at the university and the introduction of Maritime research fellowships under the ministry's aegis. “The establishment of CMRS at Dibrugarh University in collaboration with MoPSW would open new avenues for research scholars in maritime and riverine studies,” the association stated in its proposal. The initiative is particularly relevant given Assam’s extensive river systems and the government’s focus on developing inland waterways.

Beyond maritime research, the memorandum addressed several pressing concerns affecting the broader research community at the university. DURSA highlighted the urgent need for regularisation of scholarships for research scholars, expressing concerns about the progress of the Jibon Anuprerona Asoni scheme and calling for the continuation of the Jyotirao Phule Fellowship specifically designed for single girl child PhD scholars.The association also raised alarm over mounting academic vacancies, urging immediate recruitment of assistant professors to fill critical teaching and mentorship positions. Concerns regarding recruitment of assistant professors and filling of academic vacancies was also mentioned in the memorandum, highlighting the impact these gaps have on research guidance and academic quality.DURSA also proposed that PhD scholars be given reservation in govt departments under the Assam govt, arguing that this would incentivize advanced research and retain talent within the state’s administrative framework.“The Union minister expressed keen interest in the above-mentioned subjects and conveyed his willingness to meet and interact with all the research scholars of the university at the earliest opportunity,” DURSA officials confirmed following the meeting.