Shillong: The NASSCOM Industry Leaders' Meet 2026 was held on Wednesday at the State Convention Centre in Meghalaya's Shillong, bringing together leading industry representatives, technology companies, policymakers and government officials.
The event focused on discussions around the state's expanding digital economy and emerging opportunities in the IT and services sector, with an emphasis on strengthening the ecosystem and promoting growth in the region.
The programme was organised by the Information Technology and Communications Department of the Government of Meghalaya in collaboration with NASSCOM.
Discussions focused on strengthening the State's IT ecosystem, expanding IT-enabled services, and creating better skilling and employment opportunities for local youth.
A major highlight of the event was the signing of an agreement between StaffFlex Resolutions LLP and the Meghalaya Technology Parks Society for leasing space at Shillong Technology Park-II.
The agreement marks the first confirmed occupancy at the facility and is being seen as an important step towards operationalising the State's expanding IT infrastructure and attracting investment into Meghalaya's technology sector.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who witnessed the signing ceremony and later chaired a round-table discussion with industry leaders, said the growth of Meghalaya's IT sector has been a gradual process built over many years of sustained effort.
Recalling his earlier association with the sector, Sangma said he first began engaging with IT development during his tenure as IT Minister in 2008. He acknowledged that progress remained slow for several years but said focused efforts resumed after he became Chief Minister in 2018.
Highlighting the State's ongoing infrastructure push, the chief minister said, "Today, we are happy that the second IT Park is ready, and another one is coming up in Tura."
He stressed that technology growth cannot depend only on competitive advantage but requires the creation of a strong ecosystem for industries to grow and sustain themselves.
Addressing industry partners and training institutions, Sangma emphasised the need for collaboration among the government, stakeholders and individuals to build a sustainable digital ecosystem in the State.
He assured industry representatives that the government remains committed to supporting the sector over the long term and prioritising practical, outcome-based partnerships rather than symbolic agreements.
The Chief Minister also invited suggestions from industry leaders to strengthen Meghalaya's startup and innovation ecosystem.
During the round-table discussion, participants proposed measures such as creating an innovation hub, establishing a startup task force and accelerating policy reforms to support entrepreneurs and technology companies.
Industry representatives also highlighted the need for future-ready skilling programmes, particularly in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, prompt engineering, cyber hygiene and digital compliance. Stronger collaboration between industry and academic institutions was identified as essential for preparing youth for evolving job markets.
Participants further discussed improving ease of doing business through faster regulatory clearances, stronger single-window systems and predictable compliance mechanisms for companies setting up operations in the state.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment between the government and industry stakeholders to develop Shillong as a regional hub for IT services, innovation and AI-driven governance solutions, supported by improved infrastructure, connectivity and long-term ecosystem planning.
The round table discussion was attended by senior officials from leading national and international companies, along with members of the NASSCOM.