Strengthening Entrepreneurial Capabilities through Advanced Skill Development Initiatives in Assam & Meghalaya
EDII is committed to fostering entrepreneurship and enhancing skills across emerging sectors and tech domains, through capacity-building programmes. ‘‘In the North East region the programmes aim to equip aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with industry-relevant tech-based knowledge and competencies,’’ informed Dr. Bhaskar Jyoti Saud, Project Director, Assistant Professor, EDII.
During the last two months, four 5-day Advanced Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programmes (A-ESDPs) were conducted on ‘Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation’, ‘Animation and Gamification’, ‘Packaging Technology’ and ‘Agro Processing’. These programmes were organized under the ESDP Scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt. of India by EDII. 93 participants from the Meghalaya and Assam attended these programmes.
The programme equipped participants with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills in emerging digital technologies, enabling them to adapt to the rapidly evolving business landscape. The training programme comprised a balanced mix of theoretical and practical sessions, delivered by experienced resource persons with expertise in tools and applications of AI and emerging technology. These programmes covered topics such as, data analysis, use of AI-powered platforms, machine learning concepts and digital tools for business optimization.
Additionally, a 5-day Advanced Management Development Programme (MDP) on ‘Export and International Trade’ was organized at Guwahati under the ESDP Scheme of the Ministry of Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt. of India from March 9 – 13, 2026. The programme was designed to build capacities of entrepreneurs, professionals and aspiring exporters by providing in-depth knowledge of global trade practices and export procedures. 25 participants from Assam and Meghalaya attended the programme. The sessions covered key topics such as international marketing strategies, trade regulations, quality standards and compliance with international norms.
These initiatives have significantly contributed to strengthening entrepreneurial competencies and enhancing the skills of participants to leverage emerging technology.
Micro Enterprise Development (MED) Programme in Tripura
Micro Enterprise Development (MED) Programme, a component of the Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP), focuses on capacity building and skill enhancement of Self Help Group (SHG) members. EDII is extending technical support for implementation of MED Programme, in collaboration with the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) across nine blocks in Tripura. TRLM has also allocated two additional blocks – Jirania RD Block and Old Agartala RD Block in West Tripura for implementation of the MED programme. During the last two months, 45 SHG members from Jubarajnagar Block, North Tripura were trained under MEDP.
Transforming Tribal Livelihoods in Meghalaya…Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY)
The Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana (PMVDY) is a scheme launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India to develop value chains for Minor Forest-Based Products (MFPs) and enhance the income of tribal communities by providing them with skills and building their capacities.
Under this scheme, tribal communities are encouraged to form clusters and engage in the processing and value addition of forest-based products. They are supported with necessary infrastructure, tools & equipment along with training in value addition and entrepreneurship. The scheme also provides market linkages through various channels, helping communities in improving their income.
In Meghalaya, EDII serves as the training and capacity building partner for 130 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs). During the last two months, 20 Value Addition Training Programmes on Minor Forest-Based Products (MFPs) were conducted, benefiting 300 participants. These programmes helped participants enhance the quality of their products and make them market-ready. Additionally, 2 Training of Trainers’ (ToT) programmes were organized, where 55 VDVK members received training in Food & Agro Processing and Branding & Packaging. These efforts are strengthening local capacities and enabling tribal communities to build sustainable livelihood opportunities.
