GG News Bureau
Shillong, 16th Oct. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Wednesday reaffirmed the strategic importance of the North-East in the country’s development trajectory, stating, “North-East is on the radar of nation’s development.”
Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Meghalaya Skill and Innovation Hub at the State Convention Centre in Shillong, he highlighted the region’s vital contribution to national unity, economic progress, and cultural vibrancy.
The Vice-President credited the Look East and Act East Policy for spurring rapid development in the North-East, especially in terms of enhanced communication, connectivity, and airport infrastructure. He emphasized that the policy has transformed the region’s growth prospects, making it a pivotal player in India’s development.
Raising Concerns Over Misinformation
Dhankhar voiced his concerns about the spread of unverified information on public platforms, questioning, “Can the freefall of information that has no factual foundation be allowed on public platforms?” He urged for a sense of responsibility, stressing, “We cannot afford to be loose cannons, ignoring our basic commitment to our nation.” The Vice-President highlighted the importance of ensuring that the youth remain well-informed, calling them crucial stakeholders in India’s vision to become a developed nation by 2047.
Focus on Skill Development
At the event, the Vice-President also inaugurated the Meghalaya Skill and Innovation Hub and launched the CM Business Catalyst – Student B-Plan Challenge. He emphasized the importance of skill development, stating, “Skill is neither discovered nor innovated; it is the optimal exploitation of a person’s talent in a specified field, giving human resources a qualitative edge.” He underlined that skilling is not just a quality but a necessity for India’s growth.
In his address, Dhankhar praised the government’s initiatives towards skilling, including the formation of a dedicated Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and a budget allocation of ₹60,000 crore for internships for 5 lakh youth over five years. He stressed the importance of villages and semi-urban areas becoming centers of skill development.
Celebrating Meghalaya’s Natural Beauty
Reflecting on his experience in the state, the Vice-President remarked, “If there is heaven, it is in India; if there is a heavenly spirit, it is in Meghalaya.” He highlighted the potential of tourism as a key driver for the state’s economy, urging the region to harness its natural beauty through skilled human resources.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Governor of Meghalaya, C.H. Vijayashankar, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Cabinet Minister Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, and Chief Secretary Donald Phillips Wahlang.
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