Sir,
Unemployment, which was already high in the state, has seen a further upswing during the pandemic owing to lay-offs in all sectors. Many qualified youths who went outside the state for greener pastures had to return home. Though apparently this is a precarious situation, it can be a boon in disguise. If the government can provide the right opportunities, then the exodus of talents can be checked in the post-pandemic situation. Meghalaya is not an industrial state, so job opportunities for youths are limited to the public sector. With every passing year, young people are graduating with no hope of a secured job.
According to a statement given by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Meghalaya has roughly 12 lakh youths in the age group 15-30 years. They comprise 31 per cent of the state’s total population and that the government has to create 50,000 jobs every year. The real challenge will be in channelising the potential in the right direction to create the infrastructure, environment and the ecosystem in a way that the youths will become a force that will push the economy forward, he had said.
He was right. But how to ensure that the state’s young workforce propels the economy?
To create jobs for the youth, the government should empower them through different programmes, which include skill development. Youths can do what they are good at.
Awareness about different state schemes and assistance should be given to unemployed youths, especially to those who want to start their own business. Tourism is one sector that has potential despite the fact that it has taken a hit during the pandemic. Entrepreneurship in adventure and eco-tourism can especially prove profitable. With a proper road map, it will not be a daunting task and the state can benefit in the long run. After all, youths are the future of the state.
Aiban Kharkongor, Shillong