Miyagi Prefecture Delegation Arrives in India to Explore Industry, Skill Opportunities

New Delhi, India — A delegation from Miyagi Prefecture, a Japanese state located north of Tokyo at around a two-hour drive, is currently on a week-long visit to India to explore the collaboration possibility of industry and skill development. Led by Koshi Sasaki, a five-time Miyagi Prefecture Assembly member, the group consisting of six Miyagi Prefecture Assembly members, intends to engage with multiple stakeholders in New Delhi and Mumbai to discuss collaboration across several sectors.

According to Koshi Sasaki, it was the first-ever delegation coming to India from the Miyagi prefecture, underscoring the significance of the trip.

When asked about what made the delegation from Miyagi prefecture visit India, Mr. Sasaki said that recently the Ambassador of India Sibi George to Japan hosted a delegation from Miyagi prefecture to the Indian embassy in Tokyo where the ambassador introduced India stating that the huge potential India had had in terms of economic growth and other factors including its large population base.

Mr. Sasaki described Miyagi Prefecture as “a promising state of Japan with key strengths in manufacturing, agriculture and fishery, tourism and nature.”

Indeed, official data from the prefecture shows a strong balance of industries. Miyagi, home to about 2.2 million people (as of 2024) and encompassing roughly 7,282 square kilometers, is known for its urban-rural coexistence, robust manufacturing sector, and renowned local delicacies such as Sasakamaboko (grilled fish cake), Gyutan (grilled beef tongue), and Zunda Mochi (sweet edamame paste over rice cakes). The region has rebuilt significantly since the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, leveraging its experience to enhance disaster prevention and recovery technology.

During the visit, the delegation was hosted in Gurugram by Prakash Yadav, Founder and CMD of Aju Group of Japanese Hotels in Gurugram, and accompanied by Krishnan Narayan, Founder of Nihon Edutech. The delegation also interacted with the candidates learning Japanese language and culture at the Aju Nihon Edutech Training Center apart from visiting NSDC and Meghalaya Bhawan in New Delhi.

Mr. Sasaki also “narrated other attractive features of the Miyagi prefecture,” referencing its scenic landscapes such as Matsushima—one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views—rich hot spring culture, and a strong local tradition blending historical heritage with modern advancements.

He emphasized that the group will compile its findings for Miyagi Prefecture Governor Yoshihiro Murai upon returning to Japan. Since 2005, Mr. Murai has served as governor and is also the current National Governors’ Association chairman. “He said that after visiting places in India, the delegation would submit a report to Miyagi Prefecture Governor Yoshihiro Murai,” reiterating the official goal of forging closer ties and potential agreements in industry and skill development.

Throughout their stay, the delegation continues to engage with both Central and state governments, as well as Indian businesses, signaling what could be a new chapter of Japan–India collaboration driven by Miyagi Prefecture’s dynamic leadership and ambitions.