New Delhi: The Vice-President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, remarked that the North-East is on the radar of the nation’s development. He emphasized that the region significantly contributes to the unity, economic progress, and cultural essence of the country. Acknowledging the North-East as an essential part of India, Dhankhar lauded the Look East and Act East Policy, which has led to exponential growth in communication, connectivity, and the development of airports in the region.
Expressing concern over the spread of misinformation, the Vice-President questioned whether the freefall of unfounded information should be allowed on public platforms. He stressed that India cannot afford to be loose cannons, ignoring its basic commitment to the nation. He asserted that Bharat is on the rise and remains indivisible, emphasising the importance of keeping the youth informed. Dhankhar called upon the youth to be the most vital contributors and significant stakeholders in India’s journey to becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Meghalaya Skill and Innovation Hub in Shillong, the Vice-President highlighted that skill is not merely discovered or innovated; it involves optimally exploiting a person's talent in a specific field, providing a qualitative edge to human resources. He underscored that skilling has become a necessity rather than a luxury.
Dhankhar also noted the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, with an allocation of 60,000 crores towards internships for 500,000 young individuals over five years. He stressed that villages and semi-urban towns must become hubs for skill centres.
Reflecting on his experiences in Meghalaya, the Vice-President remarked, "If there is heaven, it is in India; if there is a heavenly spirit, it is in Meghalaya." He asserted that tourism alone could drive Meghalaya’s economy. He further urged the state to fully exploit its natural gifts by developing skilled human resources.
C.H. Vijayashankar, Governor of Meghalaya; Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya; Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Cabinet Minister; Donald Phillips Wahlang, Chief Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya; and other dignitaries were also present at the occasion.
BI Bureau
