SHILLONG: Meghalaya Secretariat was abuzz with activity on Thursday as the different ministers took charge of their respective departments following allotment of portfolios by the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) coalition led by the NPP.
The Shillong Times caught up with a few first-timers on their first day in office in a bid to gauge their upbeat moods and priorities with respect to the different departments they are helming.
Kyrmen Shylla, the youngest minister who is just 29 years old, said as he is still a novice in administrative matters he would seek the guidance of elders.
He has been allotted the revenue and disaster management, social welfare and printing and stationary departments. Speaking to The Shillong Times on his priorities, Shylla said, “Let us see. We hope for the best. Whatever we do will be for the betterment of the state.”With regard to the social welfare department he said he would acquaint himself with the pressing issues by studying the previous files.
“I hope to do whatever I can to bring change for the benefit of the people of Meghalaya,” he said.
Shylla sounded optimistic about facing the challenges that lie ahead and said with hard work, blessings of the Almighty and guidance from seniors he would surely succeed in the role of a legislator. Former football player, vice-president of Shillong Sports Association and People’s Democratic Front MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh has been allotted the sports and youth affairs department.
The soccer enthusiast has served four years as an MDC of Mawkynrew constituency and as a first-time MLA has been elevated as a minister in charge of the agriculture, horticulture and sericulture and weaving departments.
“The state does not have a coherent sports and youth policy. I will take up this issue at the Cabinet level,” he assured.
As regards the other departments Lyngdoh said, “In the rural areas, the people suffer from neglect and deprivation. I am keen to improve their lot and will try my best so that farmers are not denied of a sustainable livelihood.”
Commenting on the state’s education policy, he said he would consult the concerned officers of the education department on a priority basis.
Asked about the challenge of holding crucial portfolios, Lyngdoh said he needs the guidance of senior leaders in the Cabinet, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and veteran NPP leader Prestone Tynsong among others.
His experience as an MDC for four years and as an executive member of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) will help him understand the complexities of administration, he added.
Another MDC from Sohiong Samlin Malngiang, who toppled former home minister HDR Lyngdoh, has been assigned PHE, SAD and legal metrology portfolios.
Dwelling on the challenges in the PHE department, he said, “The funds sanction for PHE from the Central government is meagre.”
As regards the Greater Shillong Water Supply Scheme (GSWSS), Malngiang said he would shortly convene a review meeting to discuss the project.
