New Delhi, Oct 31 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed heartfelt birthday wishes to Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday, praising his substantial role in enhancing India’s ports and shipping industry. The Prime Minister emphasized that Sonowal’s initiatives are bolstering the vision of creating an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

On his social media platform ‘X’, PM Modi shared, “Wishing a very happy birthday to Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal ji. His remarkable contributions towards fortifying the ports and shipping sector serve as a beacon of our mission to establish an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. I pray for his long and healthy life.”

Sarbananda Sonowal, an influential political figure from Assam, began his career with the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), where he served as president from 1992 to 1999.

He joined the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) in 2001 and was elected as an MLA that same year.

Recognized for his dynamic leadership, Sonowal has earned the title of Jatiya Nayak (National Hero) from AASU, showcasing his popularity among Assam's youth.

In 2011, he became a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and quickly advanced within the organization, taking on roles such as national executive member, state spokesperson, and general secretary of the Assam unit.

During the 2014 elections for the 16th Lok Sabha, Sonowal spearheaded the BJP’s campaign in Assam and was elected as an MP for the Lakhimpur constituency. He was later appointed as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development, Entrepreneurship, Youth Affairs, and Sports in the Union Cabinet.

In 2016, he resigned from the Lok Sabha and won a seat in the Assam Legislative Assembly from the Majuli constituency. Following a decisive victory for the BJP-led alliance, Sonowal was sworn in as the 14th Chief Minister of Assam — marking the first time a BJP leader held this position in the state.

In 2021, Sonowal successfully retained his Majuli seat and subsequently joined the Union Cabinet as Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, while also overseeing the Ministry of Ayush.

In 2024, he was elected to the 18th Lok Sabha from Dibrugarh, continuing his impactful work on a national scale. As a Cabinet Minister, Sonowal is a pivotal figure in promoting India’s maritime and infrastructure goals, fostering growth in sectors crucial to the nation’s self-reliance and global competitiveness.