Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reaffirmed the state’s commitment to deepening ties with Japan, leveraging India’s strong bilateral relations with the country. Speaking at the 5th India-Japan Conclave in Guwahati, Sangma highlighted Meghalaya’s initiatives to create employment and skill development opportunities for youth in Japan. He announced an ambitious plan to train and send 3,000 nurses to Japan, with the possibility of expanding the number to 5,000.
“The Meghalaya government is covering training costs and ensuring the well-being of youth working abroad. I personally accompanied the first batch to Japan—50 nurses are already employed, and 500 are learning Japanese,” he stated. Beyond healthcare, the state is exploring collaborations in other skill sectors, recognizing that 45% of Meghalaya’s population is below 19. Meghalaya has also partnered with Japan’s Yats Corporation to introduce Shiitake mushroom cultivation using advanced machinery.
During discussions with Japanese Ambassador Ono Keiichi, Sangma emphasized ongoing cooperation to address Japan’s workforce gaps and discussed key infrastructure projects, including the Phulbari-Dhubri bridge, envisioned as a vital trade link for Northeast India and Bangladesh.
