Sarbananda Sonowal

Sarbananda Sonowal is an Indian politician from Assam and the Union Cabinet minister responsible for ports, shipping and waterways. Born in Assam, he trained in law and communication before entering elected politics. He has served in the Assam legislative assembly and represented Lakhimpur in the Lok Sabha, giving him experience in both state and national government.

Sonowal became chief minister of Assam in 2016 and served until 2021. He then returned to the Union Cabinet to lead the ports, shipping and waterways ministry. The portfolio covers India’s major ports, Merchant shipping, inland waterways and maritime development. Earlier national posts included junior ministerial responsibility for skills, entrepreneurship, youth affairs and sports. His current role places him over the infrastructure that links India’s domestic waterways with its international trade routes.