Raphael Warjri

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the Shillong Tech Park-II at New Shillong Township, Umsawli, marking a major expansion of Meghalaya’s technology infrastructure.

Built at a cost of Rs. 121 crore, Phase-II adds 1.8 lakh sq ft of ready-to-occupy technology space, the largest single addition of dedicated IT space in the State so far.

The inauguration witnessed the signing of key agreements with StaffFlex LLP, Shamrock AI and US-based multinational Alorica, which will occupy two floors of the new facility. An Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence, sponsored under the IndiaAI Mission of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, will also be hosted at the park.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the project was the realisation of an idea conceived in 2008 to create a technology and innovation ecosystem in Shillong. He said Phase-II being almost fully booked ahead of its inauguration reflected the growing demand for quality technology space in the State.

The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of infrastructure, connectivity and skilled human resources in supporting the technology sector, and called for stronger industry-academia partnerships to bridge emerging skill gaps.

Sangma said Shillong should aspire to become a Centre of Excellence for Northeast India, BIMSTEC and Southeast Asia, with the facility evolving beyond an IT Park into a broader Tech and Innovation Park.

He also stressed the need for tangible outcomes from investments and agreements, saying the focus should be on creating actual businesses and jobs rather than merely announcing MoUs.

The inauguration marks another step in the State Government’s efforts to attract technology companies, expand employment opportunities and position Shillong as a regional technology and innovation hub.