Kohima, Jul 14 (IANS): Top Nagaland government officials on Friday discussed a roadmap and various strategies for development of the music industry in the state with legendary music composer A. R. Rahman, who has been helping talented young singers and musicians of the northeastern state.

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s advisor Abu Metha discussed ways for the development of the music industry in Nagaland and the northeastern region with Rahman in Chennai.

They focused on ongoing projects, programmes, and potential future collaborations with Rahman and his KM College of Music and Technology in Chennai.

Rahman has been actively involved in various music promotion and mentorship programmes in Nagaland.

Following his visit to Nagaland in 2019 as the Chief Guest of the Hornbill Festival, Rahman initiated a programme to mentor musicians from the Kohima Orphanage and Destitute Home, bringing them under his renowned Sunshine Orchestra, an official statement said.

He continues to mentor members of the Sunshine Orchestra from Nagaland, and earlier this year, he took the children to Chennai to perform at an international concert in collaboration with the British Council.

The statement said that the candidates selected for the Chief Minister’s Music Scholarship undergo a customised professional course at the KM College of Music and Technology, which is one of Asia's most renowned music institutions with an esteemed international faculty.

Rahman, recipient of the Oscar and Grammy Awards, is also engaged in mentoring and producing audio-video promotional productions that promote Nagaland and its musicians.

Abu Metha, who is also the Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), expressed appreciation for Rahman's voluntary contributions to the music industry in Nagaland, emphasising that his concern and contributions have positively impacted numerous lives and symbolise a gesture towards nation-building.

During a visit to the KM College of Music and Technology, Metha interacted with the faculty and management, gathering feedback on the Chief Minister’s Music Scholarship programme.

They also explored prospects for future collaborations and partnerships. The Nagaland officials including Theja Meru, Chairman of Dimapur based Task Force for Music and Arts (TAFMA), toured the facilities and gained firsthand experience of the programs undertaken by students from Nagaland.