Shillong, August 25 : Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today inaugurated the Youth Mela at All Saints’ Hall, Shillong, organised by the Chief Minister’s Youth Centre (CMYC). The event was also attended by Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, alongside entrepreneurs, youth, and community members.
In his address, the Chief Minister stressed that true development cannot be measured solely by GDP or large infrastructure projects. “Development is an aspect that has to be seen from multiple fronts. It is incomplete if we are not able to connect farmers, rural entrepreneurs, women, and youth with issues of health, education, rural tourism, and agriculture,” he said.
Sangma highlighted the government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship at all levels, ensuring that nano and small entrepreneurs are not overlooked. “This program and each and every one of you is part of Meghalaya’s growth story. No matter how small, your enterprise makes a difference,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister launched CMYC++ during the event and distributed the Nano Grant Awards to the top 50 nano entrepreneurs. He expressed hope that the 64 CMYCs set up across Meghalaya would nurture grassroots businesses and enable them to grow further in their entrepreneurial journeys.
The CMYCs are designed as open learning spaces in rural areas, providing youth with opportunities to develop innovation, problem-solving, and design skills. They are free-to-access hubs equipped with tools, resources, and activities aimed at fostering peer-led learning and creativity beyond traditional curricula.
The initiative is being implemented with the support of the Sauramandala Foundation, an NGO that works with remote and underserved communities. The foundation collaborates with government bodies to accelerate social and economic change through ecosystem building and co-designed solutions.
The four-day Youth Mela (August 25–28) will feature: Panel discussions and live workshops, Project exhibitions and networking, A library corner and games for children and Cultural performances by local youth.
Concluding his speech, Sangma urged young people to persevere in their entrepreneurial pursuits, while calling on schools, institutions, and communities to support local enterprises. “Our vision is to ensure that the youth of Meghalaya have platforms to innovate, aspire, and grow. Each CMYC is a space where passion, problem-solving, and community engagement come together,” he said.
