In an exclusive interaction with Whispers in the Corridors (WITC), Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, offers a compelling perspective on how the State is evolving into a land of opportunities. Articulating a clear vision, the Chief Minister outlined Meghalaya’s ambition to become a $10 billion economy by 2028 — a goal anchored in inclusive growth, youth-led innovation, and systemic transformation.

Reflecting on the State’s development journey, he highlighted the strides made across key sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and tourism over the past six to seven years. He emphasised the government’s commitment to building systems that are transparent, accessible, and citizen-centric, underscoring the need for governance that responds to the aspirations of its people.

What distinguishes Meghalaya’s approach, the Chief Minister noted, is its unwavering focus on the youth. Flagship initiatives such as CM-ELEVATE and PRIME are not just schemes, but catalysts — equipping thousands of young individuals with the skills, funding, and platforms to lead entrepreneurial and creative pursuits across sectors including agri-tech, music, sports, and tourism.

On the subject of tourism, he expressed optimism over Meghalaya’s growing recognition as a leading destination, even surpassing international hotspots like Azerbaijan and Malaysia in popularity. But beyond numbers, he noted, the essence of Meghalaya’s tourism lies in its stories, its people, and the preservation of cultural identity and natural beauty.

When asked what continues to drive him as a leader, Sangma reflected on the deep sense of purpose that comes with public service. Whether it is creating opportunities for the youth, supporting farmers, or empowering women, the motivation, he shared, lies in making a tangible difference in the everyday lives of the people of Meghalaya.

The complete interview, offering deeper insights into Meghalaya’s evolving development narrative, will be featured in the June issue of Whispers in the Corridors.