On January 30, Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a Rs 692 crore project for the restoration and rejuvenation of 15 wetlands across Assam.

The wetlands were selected based on a scientific assessment by the Space Applications Centre, which studied flood patterns and water flow in the region. The project aims to reduce the impact of annual floods by diverting excess floodwater from the Brahmaputra River into these wetlands, helping to manage floodwaters more effectively. Union Minister Shah emphasised that the Brahmaputra is not only central to Assam's culture and economy but is also the lifeline of farmers.

In addition to flood management, the project will offer economic benefits by supporting irrigation and enabling farmers to grow crops up to three times a year. Potential opportunities in animal husbandry, dairy farming, and tourism, has also been highlighted, which could provide new livelihood options for the people of Assam.