In the heart of Northeast India, Assam is quietly scripting a bold new chapter in its development narrative. Long known for its cultural richness, natural beauty, and complex socio-economic challenges, the state is now placing a strategic bet on its most potent untapped resource – its own youth.
At the helm of this transformation is Ashwani Kumar, a 2010-batch IAS officer of the Assam cadre and an alumnus of IIT Madras. As Director of the Directorate of Information Technology, Electronics and Communication (DITEC), Government of Assam, Mr Kumar is spearheading a groundbreaking internship initiative that seeks to harness the skills, passion, and local insights of engineering students across the state. His aim? To build a future-ready, tech-enabled Assam from the grassroots up.
A Vision Rooted in Local Wisdom and Youthful Drive
Mr Kumar’s philosophy is disarmingly simple, yet deeply powerful: solutions for Assam must come from Assam.
“The IT revolution is unavoidable,” Mr Kumar says, his voice steady with purpose. “If we can marry local insight with young ambition, we can build systems that deliver smarter public services – more transparent welfare, fewer leakages.”
This belief has materialized in the form of a unique internship program launched under DITEC. Designed for B.Tech students specializing in computer science, IT, or electronics from AICTE-approved colleges in Assam, the program immerses students in live e-governance projects for 4 to 8 weeks – giving them rare, hands-on exposure to real-world problem-solving in the public sector.
From Classroom to Code: A Live Laboratory for Innovation
At DITEC’s headquarters in Guwahati, the interns are not just observers – they are contributors. Working alongside senior officials and digital architects, they help shape platforms ranging from public grievance portals to workflow automation tools. This exposure enables them to connect textbook theories with real governance challenges – many of which are deeply rooted in Assam’s unique topography and societal context.
For students from rural or underrepresented communities, the initiative becomes more than an internship—it becomes a launchpad. The program is intentionally inclusive, spotlighting Assam’s lesser-known engineering institutes and opening doors that many students had never imagined accessible.
“Policy works when it’s practical and rooted in people,” Kumar affirms. “These students are Assam’s future.”
Building Bridges: Academia, Governance, and Opportunity
The internship isn’t just a resume-booster – it’s a carefully crafted talent pipeline. By encouraging innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking, the initiative addresses two long-standing challenges: retaining local talent and aligning academic training with industry and government needs.
It’s a cost-effective win-win. The government benefits from fresh perspectives and affordable workforce support, while students build real experience that enhances their employability and confidence. The model also strengthens academia-government relations, a link often overlooked in Indian policymaking.
From Message to Milestone: Gunjan’s Inspiring Journey
One of the earliest and most symbolic successes of the program is Gunjan Kashyap, a Computer Science and Engineering student whose journey began with a single message.
“One afternoon, amid a busy workday, I received a casual message from someone inquiring if a Computer Science & Engineering student he knew – Gunjan – could be considered for an internship,” Kumar recalls. “Without hesitation, I asked for her CV. The very next day, our office reached out to her with the good news.”
Gunjan joined the program, became its first intern, and successfully completed her stint at DITEC. Her quiet determination and performance sparked a chain reaction – within weeks, 10 more students were brought into the fold. Her story now stands as a beacon for others.
“Gunjan’s journey marks the beginning of what we hope will become a powerful movement,” Mr Kumar said. “One that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience in digital governance.”
Challenges Ahead, But Momentum Builds
While the program’s current scale remains limited – only a few dozen interns per cycle – the ambition behind it is anything but small. Scaling up will require additional resources, partnerships, and systemic support. But Mr Kumar remains undeterred. His approach reflects a deep understanding of systemic reform: start small, demonstrate value, and build momentum.
The Man Behind the Mission: Ashwani Kumar’s Multi-Faceted Leadership
Mr Kumar is no stranger to large-scale transformation. His administrative career has spanned roles such as District Magistrate of Barpeta, State Mission Director for flagship housing and urban renewal missions, and OSD to the Union Education Minister. Currently, he leads several of Assam’s digital initiatives including e-Prastuti, e-Office, and the Assam State Data Policy, while serving as the state’s Chief Information Security Officer and Chief Data Officer.
His achievements have earned him both state and national recognition, including the Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration and the Leadership Governance Award for digital governance. He is also a mentor to youth, regularly engaging with students and aspirants to promote ethical leadership and innovation.
A Digital Future Written by Assam’s Youth
In an era where brain drain remains a persistent challenge for Assam, Mr Kumar’s initiative offers an alternative vision: one where local talent stays, thrives, and transforms their own communities.
By giving students tools, platforms, and belief, this internship program is planting seeds that may well grow into a digital movement – one powered by pride, purpose, and potential.
“Realisation of an idea can change the trajectory of one’s life,” Mr Kumar often says. With this initiative, he’s not just helping others realize their ideas – he’s redefining what’s possible for an entire state.
