Northeast India is undergoing a major transformation in terms of connectivity, with the aim of doubling its GDP through the development of a skilled workforce. According to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the region’s growth in business, technology, and infrastructure have been hindered by connectivity issues. However, over the past nine years, significant improvements have been made in both physical and technological connectivity. Now, the focus is on driving economic expansion and achieving double-digit growth in Gross State Domestic Products (GSDPs). The combined GSDPs of all northeastern states currently account for only about 8% of the country’s GDP.
To fuel economic growth and create job opportunities, the development of a skilled workforce is crucial. Minister Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of skilling in enabling the future growth and potential of Northeast India. In the next 10 to 12 months, the government aims to create 2.5 lakh (250,000) world-class skilled individuals in the region. This initiative is expected to boost economic growth by attracting more investments, ultimately transforming the regional economy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently emphasized the significance of skills alongside educational degrees. He believes that a talented and skilled workforce is essential for states and regions to benefit from India’s growing economy and attract investments. The government has allocated Rs 400 crore (approximately $54 million) for skilling 2.5 lakh students in the Northeast, with the expenditure being borne by the central government. State governments will play a crucial role in designing required skills, establishing skill centers, and taking ownership of developing a talented workforce. By doing so, they can attract investments and create job opportunities within their respective states.
The focus on skilling spans across two categories – jobs and entrepreneurship. While job opportunities are abundant in the country, they all require specific skills. Therefore, the government is promoting the establishment of skill centers in colleges to equip students with the necessary expertise. Moreover, in the Northeast, where a vibrant entrepreneurial culture exists, skilling becomes even more important. Self-help groups, farmer producers’ organizations, and cooperative societies will be provided digital skilling, product design, branding, and access to markets beyond their districts and states. This targeted approach aims to scale economic activities and foster successful entrepreneurs in the region.
The Prime Minister’s vision is to enable the growth and success of entrepreneurs by connecting them with technology. In today’s world, technological connectivity plays a crucial role in expanding entrepreneurial ventures. Therefore, efforts will be made to provide artificial intelligence skills to students, responding to the rising demand for such expertise from state governments and colleges.
With respect to the New Education Policy (NEP), Minister Vaishnaw highlighted its importance in promoting skilling among all young Indians, regardless of their state or political affiliation. The NEP ensures that even if a student leaves school, they possess basic skills to grow and develop. Further skill development will make them industry-ready for various job opportunities.
The synergy between the Ministry of Information Technology and the Ministry of Skill Development is centered around empowering young Indians. Minister Vaishnaw sees himself as a public servant responsible for helping young Indians develop their skills and seize opportunities in the technology space.
In conclusion, Northeast India is embarking on a journey to revamp connectivity, double its GDP, and create a skilled workforce to drive economic growth. The government’s focus on skilling aims to attract investments, create job opportunities, and foster successful entrepreneurs in the region. With the right skills and access to technology, Northeast India can tap into India’s growing economy and contribute significantly to the nation’s development.
