The new Polo Commercial Complex, built at a cost of Rs 100.33 crore, was inaugurated today by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar, other cabinet ministers and senior civil servants.
Sitharaman is on a four-day official visit to Meghalaya, which began today.
The gleaming, modern new mall sits rather incongruously in one of the shabbiest parts of Shillong – a hub of anti-social activities and criminal behaviour, prone to flooding and home to dilapidated shanties.
And yet, the government is looking to transform the area significantly, including by cleaning the filthy Wahumkhrah River, developing the JN Stadium into an international-level football ground and entertainment venue and also by improving its commercial outlook.
As the first modern shopping mall in the city, the complex not only elevates the commercial infrastructure of Shillong but also enhances the quality of life for its residents through modern facilities and sustainable design, a press release said today. The infrastructure is part of Shillong’s “urban transformation journey” and was developed under the Smart Cities Mission.
Developed at a project cost of Rs. 100.33 crore, the complex spans 1.26 acres with a total built-up area of approximately 1.70 lakh square feet. It also integrates rainwater harvesting and rooftop solar installations.
Later, Sitharaman chaired an interactive session of the North East Roundtable under the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS), engaging with interns, industry representatives and senior officials from various states to review progress and hear firsthand experiences of the flagship initiative.
The PMIS aims to bridge the gap between education and employability by providing structured internship opportunities to youth across the country. During the roundtable, interns from different North East states shared their journeys, aspirations and the impact of the programme.
One of the interns from East Khasi Hills, Khlainkupar Lyngkhoi, a human resource intern at REC Ltd, said the exposure had given him confidence and skills that would help him contribute meaningfully in the workplace.
Addressing the gathering, Sitharaman emphasised the vision behind the scheme. “The main objective of the PMIS and the Prime Minister’s vision behind this initiative was to support those who have never had an assignment or a job, those who need to acquire skills and gain exposure. This programme is meant to help you go to the best companies, familiarise yourself with the work environment and stand a better chance in your careers. I am glad to see you all going out and making the most of this opportunity,” she said.
Sitharaman also encouraged interns aspiring to start their own businesses, assuring them of guidance and full support from the Ministry. “An internship experience that can trigger the spark of entrepreneurship was not anticipated but this only reflects the intent of this scheme going forward. Both the Government and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs are committed to expanding this initiative. I urge all interns to complete their courses and further go on to become brand ambassadors for PMIS so that other youth can benefit,” she said.
Over the next couple of days, Sitharaman is set to attend a series of programmes and visit various stakeholder groups to review development initiatives and interact with beneficiaries across sectors.
