Mukul moots convergence mode for MLA scheme

SHILLONG: The MLA scheme in the State has been doubled to Rs 2 crore but the question mark on proper utilisation of funds and implementation of projects still remains.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said on Friday the MLA scheme is implemented on the basis of people’s demands and that an MLA compiles the list of demands and sends it to the committee for approval.
“There are several programmes under the MLA scheme which can be taken up in a convergence mode by village employment councils,” Sangma said and added that the Government has advised that some programmes be structured likewise.
Citing an example, the Chief Minister said roads taken up under NREGA can be converted to all-weather ones by pulling up resources from other programmes.
According to Sangma, with the increase of MLA fund from Rs 1 crore to 2 crore, the legislators can adopt diverse approach to programmes after consulting with the electorate. He pitched for MLAs following a thematic approach of involving people in this scheme for better implementation.