Scholars Gather in Shillong for Sixth India–Japan Conclave ‘Kizuna’

Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, emphasized the strong ties between India and Japan during the Sixth India-Japan Intellectual Conclave in Shillong. He highlighted that these ties are built on mutual respect, democratic values, and a shared vision for economic cooperation and sustainable development, encapsulated in the theme “Kizuna,” reflecting a lasting bond.

Sangma elaborated on Japan’s role as a steadfast development partner for Meghalaya, noting that their collaboration extends beyond infrastructure to people-focused initiatives, including youth empowerment. He mentioned that 47 nurses from Meghalaya are currently employed in Japan and announced a newly signed MoU with ASEAN One Co. to train and place 500 youth in Japan this year, with the potential to scale to 5,000 over the next five years. The state has also partnered with NAVIS HR to employ skilled individuals in Japan and established a Japanese language training center in Shillong.

In agricultural innovation, Sangma reported that the first commercial production of Shitake Blocks in India is taking place in Upper Shillong, supported by YATS Co. from Japan, with a capacity to produce 150,000 blocks annually, benefiting over 1,000 farmers. The state is also exploring the production of sake using local rice in collaboration with Sasaki Sake Brewery.

Sangma acknowledged JICA’s significant investments in Meghalaya’s infrastructure, sustainable forestry, and tourism. He mentioned the renovation of the Umiam Hydro Power Station and Umiam-Umtru Stage-III Hydroelectric Power Station with JICA support, as well as JICA funding for the longest river bridge in India, connecting Dhubri in Assam to Phulbari in Meghalaya.

With a youthful population where 74% are under 35, Sangma proposed establishing a Meghalaya–Japan Skill Corridor to leverage Meghalaya’s youthful energy alongside Japan’s technological expertise. Moreover, he noted the cultural collaboration seen in the Shillong Cherry Blossom festival, which featured a Japanese pavilion, showcasing Japanese traditions, cuisine, and performances.