By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 30: Shillong MP Ricky AJ Syngkon has lauded a group of young entrepreneurs who have come together to form Joint Entrepreneurs Transforming Society (JETS), an initiative aimed at fostering innovation, sustainable business practices, and inclusive economic growth through collaboration, mentorship, and technology-driven solutions.
The society brings together four young entrepreneurs—Pynskhemlang W Uriah of JETS 24X7, Balambokstar Dkhar of KDS Prints, Pynskhembor L Mawnai of M3 Design Creative Hub, and Valdo K Sangma of Taste of Tribe.
Speaking after releasing the JETS calendar for the year 2026, Syngkon expressed appreciation for the youth-led initiative, stating that it was encouraging to see young people who are not only working for their own growth but are also committed to helping other aspiring entrepreneurs.
“The society you have formed sends a strong message that unity is strength. It shows the determination of youth who are not just job seekers, but job providers,” Syngkon said.
He added that such collective efforts by young entrepreneurs could bring about a significant transformation in society.
The Lok Sabha MP from Shillong noted that while Meghalaya has many entrepreneurs, it is rare to see young business owners coming together with the intention of supporting one another. He remarked that this collaborative mindset was largely absent among earlier generations of entrepreneurs and described JETS as a distinct and forward-looking initiative.
Expressing confidence in the group’s vision, Syngkon said that despite the difficulties and hurdles ahead, the effort would yield positive results. He praised the entrepreneurs for treating challenges as stepping stones toward achieving their goals and hoped the initiative would inspire others to persevere despite obstacles.
Earlier, speaking on behalf of the society, Pynskhemlang W. Uriah said that although he initially planned to work independently as an entrepreneur, interactions with fellow young business owners revealed common challenges faced by youth attempting to establish enterprises in the state.
He highlighted the issue of high security deposits as a major stumbling block for young entrepreneurs. Uriah said that while many youths manage to arrange monthly rent for shops in areas such as Police Bazaar or Iewduh, they struggle to pay security deposits ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, and in some cases even up to Rs 50 lakh.
“This is where many local entrepreneurs fail to execute their plans and achieve their goals,” he said, adding that such financial barriers prevent capable youth from starting businesses.
Uriah also raised concerns regarding JETS 24X7 riders, stating that the Transport Department has yet to release permit allotments despite applicants fulfilling all required criteria. He said the delay has adversely affected riders who are keen to operate two-wheeler taxis legally.
Additionally, he pointed out that partner firms capable of undertaking contract work are unable to compete due to the high cost of tender documents, making it nearly impossible for small local firms to bid for government tenders.
Uriah said that through JETS, young entrepreneurs hope to collectively raise issues affecting them and advocate for policies that are more friendly and supportive of local businesses.
The vision of Joint Entrepreneurs Transforming Society (JETS) is to become a leading entrepreneurial collective driving sustainable economic growth, technological innovation, and inclusive development across Meghalaya and the Northeast. The society aims to unite entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups to promote technology-driven solutions, skill development, mentorship, collaboration, and long-term economic opportunities through responsible enterprise.
