In July 2025, Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled a key initiative that will empower 3,000 state youth with Japanese language skills under the FLIGHT (Foreign Language Initiative for Global Human Talent) scheme. A scholarship of ₹1.5 lakh per student will be provided, supported by agreements with three Japanese firms. This move aims to boost international job mobility, while strengthening Assam’s role in global skill markets.
How the FLIGHT Scheme Works
Assam signed agreements with Asean One Company Ltd, Jaceex Ventures Ltd, and Meiko Career Partners Ltd as part of the Advantage Assam 2.0 investment summit. Japanese language training begins in October 2025 and covers sectors like driving, nursing, and IT. Trainees can earn ₹2 to ₹2.5 lakh per month in Japan or find employment with Indian-Japanese companies within India.
Cutting-Edge Education Meets Job Creation
The training cost per student is ₹3–4 lakh, of which the state covers ₹1.5 lakh. The rest may be self-funded or covered through loans. This scholarship-first approach aims to ease access for youth from diverse backgrounds. With Japanese firms in healthcare and tech participating, this blends global opportunities with local empowerment.
Benefits for Youth and State Economy
This program supports global mobility and creates skills-based pathways for Assam’s youth. It aligns with Northeast India’s reputation for peace and stability—a factor that attracts Japanese investors. As trained youth enter international and domestic Japanese-linked employers, Assam can reinforce its emerging position in global partnerships.
Political Momentum and Strategic Vision
The announcement follows policies like school infrastructure expansion and skill development. It signals Assam’s focus on education-led growth under the current political leadership. The FLIGHT initiative is part of a broader plan, including digital classrooms, vocational training, and foreign education linkages.
Challenges and Implementation Considerations
Though ambitious, the scheme faces hurdles. Ensuring quality training, proper placement support, and equitable access across rural and urban areas remains critical. The cost-sharing model requires careful funding and management. Meanwhile, participants require strong bridging support to acclimatize abroad or in international working environments.
Future Outlook and Scaling Possibilities
If successful, the FLIGHT scheme may expand to include more languages—such as Korean or German—and additional sectors like manufacturing or finance. Assam could become a model for youth international mobility, regional education innovation, and public-private partnership in skill development.