Nirmala Sitharaman interacts with interns under PMIS in Shillong

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman kicked off her four-day visit to Meghalaya on Thursday with a string of significant engagements in Shillong, including an interactive session under the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS) and the inauguration of a Polo Shopping Complex, the city’s first modern commercial hub.

Joined by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, the finance minister chaired a North East Roundtable under PMIS, bringing together interns, industry representatives, and government officials from across the region.

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Launched with the aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace readiness, the PMIS offers structured internship opportunities to youth, particularly those from underserved areas. Interns from various North Eastern states shared their transformative journeys during the session.

Addressing the gathering, Sitharaman underlined the scheme’s vision to support first-time workers and create pathways to employment and entrepreneurship. “This programme is meant to help you go to the best companies, familiarise yourself with the work environment, and stand a better chance in your careers,” she said.

Referring to Guru Purnima, the minister highlighted the importance of mentors in shaping careers and encouraged interns to become ambassadors for the PMIS. “The experience you gain during this internship may ignite the spirit of entrepreneurship within you — a result even we did not fully anticipate. The government is committed to expanding this initiative and supporting those with entrepreneurial aspirations,” she added.

Earlier on Thursday, Sitharaman inaugurated the Polo Shopping Complex, a major infrastructure project developed under the Smart Cities Mission. Constructed at a cost of Rs 100.33 crore. The complex covers 1.26 acres and includes a built-up area of approximately 1.70 lakh square feet. With integrated eco-friendly features like a Rainwater Harvesting system and Rooftop Solar panels.

The finance minister’s visit will continue with further review meetings, field visits, and interactions with beneficiaries across multiple sectors in Meghalaya and the wider Northeast region.