Guwahati, March 23: The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) is steadily strengthening its role in North East India, with a renewed focus on research, digital infrastructure and skill development aimed at positioning the region as a key technology hub under India’s Act East policy.
Marking its 39th Foundation Day recently, C-DAC’s North East centre announced a major expansion of its research and development infrastructure in Guwahati. The move comes as the organisation completes over a decade of its presence in the region, during which it has worked across sectors such as healthcare, governance and emerging technologies.
According to officials, the expansion includes a significant increase in operational capacity, with new facilities being set up at the IIT Guwahati Research Park. The infrastructure will house specialised laboratories dedicated to quantum technology, cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), Industry 5.0 applications and high-performance computing.
Mr. Jitesh Chaudhary, Director and Centre Head of C-DAC – North East, said, “As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to transforming the Northeast into a vibrant hub for advanced technology research and innovation. Over the past decade, C-DAC has focused on strengthening technological capabilities and delivering digital solutions that support governance, healthcare, and infrastructure development across the region.”
He emphasised that over the past several years, C-DAC has contributed to strengthening the digital ecosystem of the North East by working closely with state governments and institutions. The organisation’s efforts are aligned with the broader goal of transforming the region into a centre for advanced technology research and innovation.
One of the key areas of intervention has been healthcare. C-DAC has implemented digital platforms such as e-Aushadhi (DVDMS), which streamlines the procurement and distribution of medicines and vaccines across multiple North Eastern states. In addition, Hospital Management Information Systems have been deployed in hospitals in states like Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, aimed at improving administrative efficiency and patient care.
In the area of digital governance, the organisation has developed platforms to support planning and monitoring of public infrastructure projects. These systems are designed to improve transparency, streamline processes and enhance service delivery by government Departments.
Beyond governance, C-DAC has also been working on technology-driven solutions for agriculture and environmental monitoring. These include IoT-based controlled cultivation systems and wearable devices for monitoring livestock health in remote areas. Such initiatives are expected to support local economies and address region-specific challenges.
The organisation is also investing in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, machine perception and cybersecurity. Work is underway on AI-assisted medical imaging and intelligent digital systems that can support citizen services. Research in quantum cryptography and post-quantum cybersecurity is being undertaken to prepare for future digital security challenges.
Officials said that these initiatives are not only aimed at technological advancement but also at creating a strong talent base in the region. Through various training programmes supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, C-DAC has trained over one lakh youth and professionals in digital technologies.
The recent hosting of the ISEA–CISO Leadership Meet in Guwahati further highlighted the region’s growing importance in the national cybersecurity landscape, bringing together experts, policymakers and industry stakeholders.
With the planned expansion and continued focus on innovation, C-DAC aims to position North East India as a strategic technology hub that can connect India with Southeast Asian economies. The approach is in line with the government’s Act East vision, which emphasises regional connectivity, economic cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Officials believe that sustained investment in research infrastructure, coupled with skill development and collaboration, will enable the North East to play a more prominent role in India’s digital growth story in the coming years.