Shillong, June 20: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday called for deeper collaboration among Northeastern states and stronger institutional capacity to maximise development funding, as a two-day seminar on leveraging externally aided projects (EAPs) concluded in Shillong.
The seminar, “Leveraging Externally Aided Projects in the North East”, was attended by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and chief ministers and senior officials from across the region, highlighting the growing focus on strengthening the Northeast’s ability to attract and effectively utilise international development assistance.
Addressing the valedictory session, Sangma described the event as a significant milestone for the region and said its importance was reflected in the participation of chief ministers from across the
“This seminar was not only about funding but aimed at fostering partnerships, improving state capacities and enhancing the relationship between different states and central agencies,” the Chief Minister said. Sangma noted that externally aided projects have emerged as a critical tool for accelerating development and building institutional capacity in the Northeast.
He said the discussions over the past two days had underscored the need for states to continuously learn, adapt and strengthen implementation mechanisms. Thanking development partners and government officials from all eight Northeastern states, he stressed that successful project execution depends not only on funding but also on trust and cooperation among stakeholders. “Building relationships and trust among officials and agencies is important, as these relationships have an impact on decision-making,” he said, adding that the seminar provided a valuable platform to strengthen collaboration for the common goal of advancing the region’s development.
The Chief Minister also advocated greater inter-state cooperation, urging Northeastern states to move beyond individual priorities and work together in areas where they share common interests. He highlighted sectors such as tourism, climate action and youth development as areas where states can complement each other’s strengths and create larger regional opportunities.
Sangma further emphasised that externally aided projects play a crucial role in enhancing state capacities, improving project implementation and increasing the ability of states to access and utilise central government schemes effectively. As the seminar concluded, he urged participants to translate the discussions and recommendations into concrete action. “The next important step is to take forward the suggestions and deliberations of the seminar to achieve tangible results,” he said.
The Chief Minister also expressed gratitude to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for her initiative in organising the seminar and for her continued guidance and support for the Northeastern states. The two-day event focused on strengthening institutional capacity, sharing best practices and enhancing the Northeast’s ability to leverage externally aided projects for sustainable and inclusive growth.
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