Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma emphasized the significance of India-Japan relations, highlighting mutual respect, democratic ideals, and economic collaboration. Speaking at the Sixth India-Japan Intellectual Conclave, he resonated with the theme “Kizuna,” symbolizing a lasting bond. Sangma noted Japan’s pivotal role as a development partner for Meghalaya, emphasizing collaborations that extend beyond infrastructure to include youth empowerment, illustrated by the placement of 47 nurses in Japan. Following a recent visit, he announced an MoU aimed at training and placing 500 youths this year, eventually scaling up to 5,000 within five years, in partnership with NAVIS HR. The establishment of a Japanese language training center in Shillong further supports this initiative.
In agricultural innovation, Sangma mentioned the commercial production of Shiitake Blocks in Upper Shillong, benefiting over 1,000 local farmers with technology and marketing assistance from Japan’s YATS Co. Plans to create a local sake using local rice with Sasaki Sake Brewery were also discussed. Highlighting JICA’s crucial support in Meghalaya, he detailed investments in infrastructure projects, including the renovation of hydro power stations and funding for a significant bridge between Assam and Meghalaya.
Sangma proposed the establishment of a Meghalaya–Japan Skill Corridor, leveraging the youthful demographic of Meghalaya, with 74% of the population under 35. Cultural initiatives, such as the inclusion of a Japanese pavilion at the Shillong Cherry Blossom festival, were noted, offering insights into Japanese culture, cuisine, and performances, thus reinforcing the cultural bonds between Japan and Meghalaya.