Williamnagar, February 123 : The Government of Meghalaya on Friday inaugurated the District Emporium at the District Commerce & Industries Centre (DCIC), Williamnagar, in a move aimed at strengthening local entrepreneurship and promoting indigenous handicrafts and locally produced goods in East Garo Hills.
The emporium was inaugurated by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma in the presence of Marcuise N. Marak, Minister for Public Health Engineering, Soil & Water Conservation and Housing, along with senior district officials, local entrepreneurs, artisans and members of the public.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister stressed the urgent need to create large-scale livelihood opportunities for the youth of the state. He noted that between 50,000 and 60,000 young people enter the workforce in Meghalaya every year, while government job vacancies number only around 1,200 to 2,000 annually.
“Our plans and policies must address this reality. If we do not create opportunities for our youth, it will result in economic, social and political pressures,” he said.
Referring to the state’s development roadmap, he added that the vision of a 10-billion-dollar economy focuses on sustainable livelihoods through sectors such as tourism, agriculture, industry, commerce and information technology.
He also highlighted major DCIC initiatives including the ₹25-crore food processing unit at Tikrikilla supplying Nokma ice cream using local raw materials, the ₹20-crore rubber processing unit at Songsak, and a ₹25-crore freezing and drying plant expected to be completed by April–May to support pineapple, orange and banana farmers across Garo Hills. He further mentioned the Rongara processing unit producing A’wang chips as an example of value addition to local produce.
The Chief Minister emphasized expanding market access and suggested establishing similar emporiums across the state in partnership with self-help groups and private entrepreneurs. He urged youth to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and take calculated risks while also highlighting opportunities in the tourism sector.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Marcuise N. Marak described the emporium as a significant boost for Williamnagar, stating that the district has many skilled artisans who now have a dedicated platform to display and sell their products. He added that the facility would improve visibility and market access for local producers and noted that the district is witnessing visible development.
The District Emporium has been established under the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and implemented by the District Administration, East Garo Hills. The facility aims to provide a platform for local artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses to market their products and improve livelihoods.
The programme also featured a musical performance by DCIC trainees and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by E.M.G. Momin, Functional Manager, DCIC, East Garo Hills.
