Meghalayas Chief Minister Sets Ambitious UPSC Goals, Emphasizes Need for Support Ecosystem

Shillong, August 12: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma stated on Wednesday that there is no shortage of talent in the state for preparing candidates for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and other national competitive exams. However, he emphasized the need for a robust ecosystem that includes training, mentorship, financial assistance, and guidance.

Sangma addressed the ‘Ascent 2026’ seminar organized by the Meghalaya Administrative Training Institute (MATI) in Mawphlang. He mentioned that the aim of the state government’s CM-Inspire program is to provide continuous institutional support for candidates.

He asserted that Meghalaya has the potential to produce a significantly higher number of candidates who can successfully pass national competitive exams.

The challenge lies in uniting all stakeholders, creating the right environment, and providing proper guidance to help candidates achieve their personal goals and contribute to the state’s development.

During the program, the Chief Minister and other dignitaries distributed CM-Inspire checks of ₹50,000 to seven candidates who passed the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination.

Sangma also referred to the state government’s STAR program, which screened around 30,000 youths in villages to identify sports talent. Ultimately, ten athletes were selected for special assistance, which includes education, nutrition, psychological counseling, physiotherapy, training, and coaching.

He stated that the goal of the state government is to prepare these athletes so that one of them can win an Olympic medal in the 2036 Games.

Sangma highlighted that the same approach of identifying talent, setting ambitious goals, and creating a support system is being applied for competitive examinations as well.

He encouraged candidates to look beyond just passing exams and becoming IAS officers, urging them to understand their true motivation. Reflecting on his experience of losing the 2004 elections, Sangma advised that instead of fearing failure, it should be analyzed for growth.