Empowering Futures: Union Finance Minister Hails Progress of North East Internship Scheme

Shillong, Meghalaya – Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman concluded a significant roundtable discussion in Shillong on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in her four-day official visit to Meghalaya. The event, held under the umbrella of the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS), brought together a diverse group including interns, prominent industry leaders, and senior officials from across the Northeastern states. The core agenda of the gathering was to meticulously assess the strides made by the North East Internship Scheme, an initiative designed to provide structured and meaningful internship opportunities for the region’s vibrant youth.

The North East Internship Scheme has been a beacon of hope for many young individuals, particularly those hailing from remote and underserved areas. Its fundamental aim is to equip them with indispensable employability and workplace skills, thereby bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry demands. During the roundtable, Minister Sitharaman, joined by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, engaged in heartfelt interactions with the interns, listening intently as they recounted their transformative experiences.

Many interns shared compelling narratives of personal and professional metamorphosis, attributing their growth to the immersive learning environment fostered by the scheme. Khlainkupar Lyngkhoi, an intern from the East Khasi Hills, articulated the profound impact of the program on his life, highlighting how it honed his time management skills and instilled a newfound confidence in a professional setting. Such testimonials underscore the tangible benefits and far-reaching positive influence of the North East Internship Scheme.

Minister Sitharaman, in her address, powerfully reiterated the scheme’s core philosophy: to provide crucial support to first-time interns. She emphasized that the North East Internship Scheme was meticulously conceptualized to empower those who had yet to experience a formal job assignment or internship, enabling them to acquire vital skills and invaluable exposure that are indispensable in today’s competitive job market. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the government’s unwavering commitment to youth development.

Beyond skill acquisition, the Minister passionately encouraged the interns to envision themselves as future entrepreneurs, urging them to explore innovative opportunities that could contribute to the region’s economic dynamism. She also called upon them to become “brand ambassadors” for the North East Internship Scheme, advocating for its merits and inspiring more young people to leverage its offerings. This call to action highlighted the scheme’s role not just in individual upliftment but also in fostering a spirit of collective progress.

On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima, Minister Sitharaman underscored the profound importance of mentorship in career development. She stressed that effective mentorship is a cornerstone for guiding young talents, offering them insights and wisdom that go beyond textbook knowledge. The Minister assured continued government backing for the North East Internship Scheme, signaling a long-term commitment to nurturing the region’s human capital.

Earlier in the day, showcasing the government’s broader development agenda, Minister Sitharaman inaugurated the Polo Shopping Complex, a landmark development in Shillong. This modern mall stands as the city’s first of its kind, meticulously developed under the ambitious Smart Cities Mission. The project, realized at a substantial cost of ₹100.33 crore, spans an impressive 1.26 acres and proudly integrates eco-friendly features. These include state-of-the-art rooftop solar panels and an efficient rainwater harvesting system, aligning with sustainable development goals. The inauguration of such infrastructure complements the human development efforts championed by the North East Internship Scheme, illustrating a holistic approach to regional advancement.

Minister Sitharaman’s visit is poised to continue over the next three days, with a comprehensive agenda that includes reviewing various central schemes and engaging in crucial interactions with a wide array of stakeholders across the state. Her presence and active participation in discussions surrounding initiatives like the North East Internship Scheme signify the central government’s focused attention on the holistic growth and prosperity of the Northeastern region. The ongoing efforts aim to ensure that the youth of the North East are not just participants but active contributors to India’s burgeoning economy.