SHILLONG: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) passed the Budget for the fiscal year 2019-2020 on Thursday.
The projected expenditure is Rs 215, 36, 17, 400 and the projected revenue is Rs 215, 35, 68, 860 which works out to a deficit budget of Rs 48, 540.
Replying to the Budget discussion, Deputy CEM of KHADC, Pyniaid Sing Syiem said the Village Administration Bill (VAB), 2014 will be re-examined as there are Hima and Elaka which do not have an act yet.
He also said that inclusion of Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution will be followed up.
Taking part in the discussion, Congress MDC Lamphrang Blah observed that GST has affected the share of the council while another MDC of the party Grace Kharpuri said the leakages have to be plugged.
Congress MDC Ronnie Lyngdoh raised concern on proper administration of Elaka, forest and supervision of civil works and development.
Charles Marngar, Congress MDC from Mawhati, drew attention to spellings of some Khasi surnames such as “Chyne” in place of Khaiñ, “Laitflang” instead of Laitphlang, “De Cruz” in lieu of Dohkrut etc. He urged the Executive Committee (EC) to look into the matter to ensure the surnames are spelt as per the Khasi language.
Seven tasks of leaders to be elected
r Work for an economy that seeks especially to help the poor and underprivileged.
r Promote probity in public life and seek to root out corruption at all levels.
r Ensure a totally safe environment for all people, particularly women and children.
r Safeguard the rights of tribals over land, water and forests.
rTake particular care of Dalits and ensure that they are not discriminated against and grant equal rights to all Dalits
rPromote communal harmony and a spirit of national integration through inter-religious dialogue and understanding.
r Take steps to protect the environment, preserving the riches of nature for future generations.