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Staff Reporter

Shillong, Sep 23: The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Limited and Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) successfully formalized a partnership today through an MoU exchange held at the NEHHDC campus in Guwahati, to launch the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ), Guwahati Campus.

This collaboration marks a significant step toward the implementation of the PM Vishwakarma (Goldsmith) initiative in the North East Region, focusing on the uplift of artisans and entrepreneurs in the gems and jewellery sector.

Through this MoU, IIGJ (under the aegis of GJEPC) will bring its skilling and training expertise to North-East region. The collaboration will help implement the PM Vishwakarma (Goldsmith) initiative, offering specialized training and business development support to artisans and entrepreneurs.

In addition to the MoU exchange, several entrepreneurs and artisans from the jewellery sector were invited to participate in a discussion. They shared insights on the challenges they face and explored solutions for the uplift of the jewellery sector in the region.

On this occasion, Dr. Sriparna B. Baruah, Advisor, NEHHDC, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in enabling the PM Vishwakarma (Goldsmith) initiative across the North East Region, fostering skill development and creating new opportunities for artisans.

Debasish Biswas, CEO of the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ), expressed his optimism that the partnership with NEHHDC will create a niche centre of IIGJ in the north-east region, offering industry-aligned skilling and training to local artisans and entrepreneurs, as well as industry associations, trade bodies and the next-generation aspiring jewellery professionals.

The event was attended by notable officials, including Siddharth Himmatsinghka, COO, GJEPC, Kaushik Ghosh, Regional Director, GJEPC Eastern Region, Koushik SV, Head of IIGJ Udupi, Lokesh Kumar Parganiha, Deputy Director and HoD, MSME-DFO, Guwahati, and Palash Bhowmick, Chief Manager, NSIC. Additionally, Santanu Deka and Bhaskar Kakoty from the Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) were present at the ceremony.

This MoU is set to create significant growth opportunities for the North East jewellery sector while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region.

NEHHDC is a Government of India organization under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER). It is dedicated to promoting and supporting artisans and weavers in the North East through initiatives that preserve cultural heritage and promote sustainable development. It has established a Jewellery and Handicrafts Livelihood Business Incubator under the ASPIRE scheme (A Scheme for Promotion of Innovation, Rural Industries, and Entrepreneurship) of the MoMSME. This incubator aims to empower local artisans while fostering sustainable business practices in the jewellery and handicrafts industries.

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) was set up by the Government of India in 1966 to promote the Indian gem and jewellery industry. GJEPC is committed to creating a vibrant ecosystem for the gems and jewellery sector, providing support through policy advocacy, skill development, and market expansion programs.

Founded in 1986, the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (an initiative of Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council) has 5 campuses in Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Varanasi and Udupi offering degrees, diplomas and professional certification programs, with 22,000 alumni members. The launch of the Guwahati campus marks the 6th entity for IIGJ in India. This campus will be focused on PM Vishwakarma and other short-term training programs.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Sept 21: BJP legislator from South Shillong Sanbor Shullai today urge the Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to take suo moto cognizance of the threats issued by the All Assam United Motor Transport Association to stop transportation of goods to Meghalaya.

In a statement, Shullai said, "The recent and widely publicized statements by All Assam United Motor Transport Association threatening to stop the transport of all goods to Meghalaya, including daily essential items are highly objectionable and deserve to be strongly condemned. Such a step goes against the centuries old bond shared by our people, breaks the spirit of brotherhood amongst Northeast states."

"I would request the honourable chief minister of Assam and also the NEDA chief convener shri Himanta Biswa Sharma that the Assam government should take Suo motto cognizance of such threats which adversely affect the lives of common people," he added.

Shullai said that such contentious matters need to be amicably resolved between both the associations. An inspiration can be taken from measures adopted by others state like Sikkim and Darjeeling in West Bengal, where stakeholders of both the states agreed upon some common working procedures.

Further, the MLA said that concern raised by All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association is genuine, however, it should be mutually resolved with the Assam tourist taxi association.

"Both the parties should come to an understanding which will benefit common people and tourists alike," he said while adding "We, as stakeholders in Meghalaya, need to bring in measures by giving better facilities in terms of reasonable rates, better amenities and friendly behaviour so that tourists coming from outside the state feel more comfortable, enjoy their stay in Meghalaya and prefer local tourist cabs. All tourist taxi associations of Meghalaya and other stakeholders should sit across the table and discuss this matter to promote tourism."

He informed that the Government of Meghalaya under the leadership of Conrad Sangma has taken enough measures to boost the Tourism industry, but we need to properly grab and build upon this opportunity.

Furthermore, Meghalaya Tourism is likely to touch its peak within the next 10 years as the initiative taken by the MDA government can increase our Tourism capacity upto 50 lakhs per year.

"So, it’s in the interest of both the states that a common understanding be reached between both Assam and Meghalaya tourist taxi associations so that it can benefit the region," he asserted.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Sept 12: The North East Students’ Organization (NESO) today asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to break his silence and visit Manipur, which has witnessed violence for an alarming 16 months.

In a letter sent to Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, NESO has also demanded the immediate appointment of a high-level peace committee to facilitate a lasting and peaceful resolution for Manipur.

“We urge the Prime Minister to break his silence and visit Manipur to assess the ground situation personally and to provide security to the civilian population of both the communities especially women and children who are the most vulnerable section in this type of conflict. The people of Manipur need to see that their suffering is acknowledged and that concrete actions are being taken to resolve the conflict,” NESO chairman Samuel B Jyrwa said in the letter.

He said the prolonged silence of the Prime Minister, who has yet to visit Manipur since the violence erupted, has only served to aggravate the crisis. The absence of strong, timely leadership and intervention has allowed the conflict to fester, further escalating the violence and suffering endured by the people.

“The situation in Manipur is dire, and it demands immediate attention from the highest levels of  government. The failure to address the conflict not only undermines the stability of Manipur but also poses a threat to the broader peace and security of the entire North East region. NESO calls upon the Government of India to act without further delay and take concrete steps to restore peace in the state,” Jyrwa said.

“NESO also calls for the appointment of a high-level peace committee, involving representatives from all communities, to facilitate a lasting and peaceful resolution,” he also added.

Further, the NESO chief said this prolonged conflict has resulted in the tragic loss of  countless innocent lives, widespread destruction of property, and created an atmosphere of fear and instability throughout the state.

“NESO condemns these acts of violence in the strongest terms, as they are deplorable and run counter to the principles of humanity, peace, and coexistence. The escalation of violence, including recent reports of drone and missile strikes, has further exacerbated the already fragile situation. Such tactics not only intensify the devastation but also deepen the divide between communities, making the prospect of peace even more elusive. NESO stands in solidarity with all affected individuals and families, mourning the innocent lives lost and acknowledging the profound suffering that this prolonged conflict has caused,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jyrwa said that NESO reaffirms its commitment to peace and justice in Manipur and the entire North East region.

“We believe that violence can never be the solution to any conflict, and we call upon all communities and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and work together towards restoring peace. NESO stands ready to assist in any constructive efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis and ensure a stable, secure future for Manipur,” he stated.

Imphal, Sept 10: Amid escalating tensions in the valley districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, and Thoubal, the district administrations have imposed an indefinite curfew starting from 11 a.m. today. The curfew, implemented under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, restricts the movement of individuals outside their residences.

In response to the volatile situation, the Home Department has also announced a five-day ban on internet services across the state, effective from 3 p.m. today. This measure aims to prevent the spread of inflammatory content and misinformation that could exacerbate the unrest. The order cites concerns that anti-social elements might use social media to incite violence and disrupt public order.

The directive outlines the potential dangers posed by the circulation of false information and rumors through various digital platforms, including social media and messaging services. To mitigate these risks and maintain public safety, the suspension includes internet and mobile data services, such as lease lines, VSATs, broadband, and VPNs, until 3 p.m. on September 15. Exceptions will be made for certain cases as determined by the state government.

The Home Department’s decision underscores the urgency of addressing the current law and order crisis and preventing further damage to public and private property.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Feb 16: Former chief minister Mukul Sangma today emphasized the need to allow the Meghalaya Lokayukta to function to its full potentiality.

"What is the purpose of Lokayukta? The whole state wanted  at least something that will act as deterrence. Therefore, allow it to function to its full potentiality. Let everybody at least realises the existence of a deterrence," Sangma told reporters.

"Now if it doesn’t perform, who will fear the law? Therefore, fear for law is crucial and the enactment of law is precisely for that purpose. It will ensure there is ultimate end result of enabling people to self regulate. When there is fear for law people will all be self regulated, when there is a fear for law, everybody including policy makers, we will all self-regulate," he added.

On the recent removal of the three retired officials by the  Lokayukta, Sangma said, "What is the intention? Intention is more important. You have to be more analytical, you have to be more investigative then you will have the answer. What is the intention? Was there any malified intention behind? Was there any reason which necessitated the government to change people?

"You know the Lokayukta is doing its job. Number of issues of corruptions has been already taken up by Lokayukta so you can understand the magnitude of responsibility and therefore, magnitude of responsibility by everybody concerned. So the sole idea and purpose of Lokayukta and various other laws which have been enacted do have the same objective," he said.

Sangma said, "So let see how we ultimately somehow instill this sense of responsibility in as far as politicians and all those responsible elected members of this House can really connect with this sole objective of the purpose for which we are here."

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 5: Spokesperson of the MDA government and cabinet minister Paul Lyngdoh today appealed to the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) not to pull out of the ongoing peace talks.

Speaking to reporters, Lyngdoh said the government has only seen the HNLC’s statement conveying its decision to withdraw from the tripartite peace talks in media reports but officially nothing has been communicated to the government as yet.

“So first, I would appeal to the HNLC not to pull out of the peace talks because a lot of grounds have been covered initially and we would hope that good sense will prevail and we should be able to return to the negotiating table,” he said.

Asked, Lyngdoh said he will not be in a position to say much on the issue since both the chief minister Conrad K Sangma and deputy chief minister in-charge home (police) Prestone Tynsong are presently out of the station.

“But certainly, the government will take a call on the matter and it should be happening very soon once the CM is back,” he added.

He further assured that the matter will be taken priority once the CM and deputy CM in charge home are in town.

On the HNLC’s demand for a general amnesty, Lyngdoh said, “Well, it certainly can be considered depending on the gravity of each of the cases registered but certainly yes, it should be and it will be considered.”

Referring to the NIA cases against the outfit, the spokesperson said, “See those are matters of details but in general the approach should be when you have peace talks it should not be to the detriment of any section and to the interest of only one section so it has to be reciprocal.”

“Based on the principle of reciprocity then only we can take a stand on matters of details but the general approach would be that has to be give and take,” he asserted.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Nov 27: BJP state president Rikman G Momin today said former chief minister Mukul Sangma is welcome to join the party any time.

Momin said he is not aware of Sangma’s meeting with the leadership of the party. He also added that he doesn’t mind approaching the former chief minister.

“Anyone can join the BJP, the door is open. It would be a great pleasure if he (Mukul) would come and join the party,” he said.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Oct 13: Over one lakh tourists are expected to participate in the upcoming three-day Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival to be held at RBDSA Sports Complex from November 17 to 19.

Informing this here today, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said, "We are expecting huge benefits for the tourism industry in the state through this festival."

"There will be a footfall of 30,000 visitors per day which means that by the end of the event, we would have one lakh visitors. Ninety per cent of these visitors are expected to be tourists from outside both domestic as well as international travellers," he said. 

Lyngdoh also informed that the government of Meghalaya is investing a sum of Rs 1.99 crore out of the total investment of Rs 9 crore for the most vibrant and most known tourism festival of Meghalaya.

Stating that the festival will to a great extent benefit the local artists and performers of the state, Lyngdoh said, "Our local band and solo performers will be sharing and rubbing shoulders with the best in the world." 

The headliner line-up for the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2023 includes internationally acclaimed sensations such as Ne-Yo, Ronan Keating, Sanam, Jonas Blue, SURL, Pink Panda, Kenny Musik and an array of local talents, including Meba Ofilia, Lou Majaw, Blue Temptation, and many more credible artists from Shillong and Northeast India.

Ne-Yo, the Grammy Award-winning R&B artist known for his chart-topping hits, and Ronan Keating, the iconic voice behind timeless classics, will ensure that the musical experience is nothing short of a magical experience. Sanam, the YouTube sensation and heartthrob, will steal hearts with his melodious tunes, while Jonas Blue and Pink Panda will keep the energy scaring with their electrifying performances. The local artists will add their distinctive flavours, creating a harmonious blend of musical talent that is unique to the essence of Shillong.

But the festival doesn't stop at music! It has a wide range of activities to cater to all interests. From cosplay competitions that celebrate the spirit of fantasy and imagination to the Miss and Mr. Cherry Blossom Pageant where the essence of beauty and grace will be recognized. The choir contest will fill the air with harmonious melodies, and the graffiti contest and art installation contest will transform the festival grounds into an open-air art gallery. If you've got a passion for singing, don't miss the karaoke contest.

For the thrill-seekers, there's the Ferris wheel to get a breathtaking view of the festival grounds and the city. And if you crave an adrenaline rush, try the zipline, which will send you soaring through the festival atmosphere creating an unforgettable experience like never before.

The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival is a celebration of culture, art, and music that is unparalleled in the Northeast of India. With its new multi-stage layout at the RBDSA Sports Complex, this year's festival promises to be bigger, better, and more unforgettable than ever before.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Sept 14: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today said issues related to the long pending boundary dispute with Assam can only be resolved through discussion and dialogue but not through confrontation.

His statement came after the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) Laban Circle had threatened to close down the Karbi Hemtun (Guest House) if the Karbi people and Assam government continue to illegally encroach and harass Khasi people in West Jaintia Hills District.

The Karbi Hemtun was inaugurated jointly by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya Chief Minister on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters at the sidelines of a function, Sangma said that confrontation is not the solution.

“We are in India and obviously we have to work and discuss matters and live in peace and harmony. There are challenges, there are complications which we have to work out but it cannot be worked out by confrontation. Solutions can only come with discussion and dialogue, with understanding and trust and hence we need to ensure that we build that trust with our counterparts, be firmed with our negotiations and our terms, find ways in which we can accommodate each other and obviously in important occasions like these, these are trust-building measures,” he said.

He added, “So tomorrow you want to put up a Meghalaya House in Assam or Guwahati and if somebody says well you cannot do it, I don’t think that is a trust-building mechanism.”

"Yes, I am not saying that there are no concerns, there are concerns but to resolve those concerns, confrontation is not the solution. We need to work together to build trust and in an amicable manner move forward and that is what the message was yesterday (during the inauguration of the Karbi House),” the CM said.

Meanwhile, Sangma informed that the chief ministers of Assam and Meghalaya will finalise a firm program related to the second phase of border talks, in the next couple of days.

Meghalaya is ready to host the precursor meeting of the G20 Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM).

Addressing a pre-event press conference for the upcoming G20 meet, Principal Secretary, Home Department, Govt of Meghalaya Dr Shakil P Ahmed informed that besides the technical event, the host State will hold exhibits to showcase India’s space activities as well as Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage.

The inaugural programme will be held on April 17th at Hotel Courtyard by Marriott, Shillong. “Apart from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), there will be exhibits by the startups of the space economy sector. We would also showcase our cultural heritage and events,” said Dr Shakil adding that hosting the delegates will help showcase and benchmark Meghalaya as a prime destination for tourism, investment and development.

Around 28 startups in the space economy sector will participate in the precursor event, he said.

The event is a continuation of earlier events held in the G20 summits by Saudi Arab, Italy and Indonesia in the past to collaborate in the space sector. “In a sector like the space economy, you need alliances because it is a technology which is naïve and is at a different level,” he said while briefing the media.

Director, ISRO Dr Sudheer Kumar highlighted the focus of the event, which is to showcase all the capabilities of ISRO and the Department of Space and informed that the event will be a collaboration in future science missions.

“Northeast States play a very important role for us. Because of the hilly areas, the potential is more. In harsh conditions, the space application is the best. The Northeast Space Application Centre is doing great. We want to showcase that these areas have huge potential for the space industries to come and invest. Our next event will be held in Bengaluru on 6th and 7th July. This is a precursor to that main event,” said the ISRO Director citing that space technology serves best to predict weather conditions with high probability.

Dr Joram Beda, Commissioner & Secretary, Dept of Planning, Govt of Meghalaya briefed the Press about the Technical Sessions that are being planned during the event.

The inaugural function on April 17th will have Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Union Minister of State (Finance) Pankaj Chaudhury, Union Minister of State (Ind. Charge) Science &Tech Dr Jitendra Singh, Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, Secretary, Department of Space (DOS) Somanath S, Chairman IN-SPACe Dr Pawan Kumar Goenka.

Meghalaya Times

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