Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday addressed the critical need for job creation in Meghalaya, where nearly 50% of the population is Gen Z and around 60,000 youths join the workforce annually. Speaking at the Skillerate 2026 programme at NEHU, organized by the Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development, he announced a partnership with the Asian Development Bank to enhance skill training.

Sangma launched four major Skills Meghalaya initiatives PROPEL, MEGASKILL, SHIELD, and EQUIP to boost livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and employment. He distributed trade-specific toolkits to nearly 21,000 trainees, such as tour guides, plumbers, and technicians, backed by ₹24 crore investment.

The government has spent ₹80 crore on skills over three years, generating ₹150 crore in earnings for trained youth via placements and opportunities in India, Japan, and Singapore. Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar attended, as Sangma praised partners and motivated trainees to excel.