SHILLONG, Nov 18: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma revealed that 37 nurses from the state, currently employed in Japanese hospitals, are sending home nearly ₹5 crore each year, significantly contributing to the local economy. The announcement was made during the launch of a six-month Japanese language training programme in Shillong, organized by the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) under the Department of Labour, Employment & Skill Development.
Highlighting the growing partnership between Meghalaya and Japan, Sangma shared that the initiative began with just two nurses two years ago and has now expanded to 37. These nurses are currently at the N4 level of language proficiency and are expected to soon attain the N3 grade, which comes with higher salaries. Each nurse is estimated to remit approximately ₹1 lakh per month to families in Meghalaya.
The programme, supported by the ASEAN Group, aims to equip local youth with skills to secure overseas employment and gain global exposure. While the previous cohort trained in Bengaluru, upcoming batches will receive instruction locally in Shillong. The inauguration saw the presence of State Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar, ASEAN Group Co Ltd Chairman & CEO Nishikwa Toshiaki, Japanese tutors, and MSSDS officials. A total of 86 candidates have already enrolled in the current batch.
