At Skillerate 2026 in Tura, the state government distributed start-up tools to 798 beneficiaries and announced new work orders for skill training across Garo Hills
Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, on May 21, announced a major expansion of the state’s skill development and livelihood initiatives, unveiling work orders worth over Rs 16.59 crore and distributing start-up tools to hundreds of trained youth at Skillerate 2026 in Tura.
Addressing the programme at Holly Hocks near the BAKDIL Training Centre, Sangma said Meghalaya was building a “strong skilling ecosystem” focused not only on training but also on long-term employability and entrepreneurship.
“Training alone is not enough. A skilled youth must also have access to tools, market linkages and opportunities,” the Chief Minister said.
Under the initiative, 34 work orders were issued through Skills Meghalaya and Supporting Human Capital Development in Meghalaya (SHCDM) to train 4,830 candidates across Garo Hills. In addition, start-up tools worth Rs 44.72 lakh were distributed to 798 beneficiaries engaged in trades such as plumbing, mobile repair, masonry, farming and mushroom cultivation.
The Chief Minister highlighted that over 58,000 candidates have enrolled in various programmes so far, while more than 28,000 youth have already received training across 22 sectors. He added that nearly 19,000 beneficiaries have been supported in self-employment initiatives.
The Chief Minister also announced plans to establish a new agriculture and food processing college in Williamnagar by 2027, alongside a veterinary college in Ri-Bhoi district.
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