AI SPARK: Accelerating Meghalaya Startups, a collaborative workshop on fostering innovation, integration, and growth, was convened today at the Shillong Technology Park, Umsawli, marking a significant milestone in Meghalaya’s journey towards becoming the Digital Hub of North East India.

The event, organised by the Information Technology & Communication Department (IT&C), Government of Meghalaya, in partnership with the Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Technology Hub (MATH), reflects the State’s growing ambition to position itself as a regional leader in emerging technologies. The workshop brought together key officials, technology partners, and promising local startups from the PRIME Meghalaya to explore AI-driven solutions for entrepreneurship, governance, and business transformation.

Delivering the keynote address,Shri Pravin Bakshi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, IT&C Department, revealed plans to sign an MoU to create Meghalaya’s own incubation centre modelled on T-Hub and confirmed that Shillong has been selected to host the prestigious Regional AI Impact Conference for the North East and East region.

While acknowledging the State’s growing startup ecosystem, he noted, “Last year, our State was recognised as an Emerging State for Best Start-up Ecosystem. Now it is up to you to make the most of this opportunity.”

Shri K.L. Nongbri, MCS, Joint Secretary, IT&C Department, emphasised the importance of connecting Meghalaya’s startups with AI specialists from MATH, noting that this initiative complements the State’s ongoing digital infrastructure expansion, highlighting it as part of the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s broad vision for the State.

The day-long workshop featured multiple sessions on AI applications and integration, including an interactive presentation on the MATH Nuage Program by Mr. Rahul Paith, focusing on AI ecosystems, career pathways, investor connect programmes, and the role of AI in MSME and business transformation.

These ventures reflect the growing strength of Meghalaya’s startup culture under PRIME Meghalaya; a flagship initiative designed to empower innovators and create jobs within the State.

Adding to Meghalaya’s expanding digital agenda, Smti Jyoti Smita Devi, Engagement Manager, Digital India Bhashini Division (DIBD), announced the upcoming Khasi and Garo Language Model Training Hackathon to be held in December in Meghalaya.

The event concluded with strategic one-on-one discussions between MATH officials, startup founders, and students, setting the foundation for long-term partnerships aimed at accelerating Meghalaya’s emergence as a regional technology and innovation hub.