The NPP-led MDA Government needs to list out its priorities and pursue them with a sense of purpose. It is unfortunate that the Central Agricultural University (CAU) which was to be set up in Meghalaya since 2010 and had been allocated 200 acres of land is not just hanging fire but is being reduced to a college. Obviously past State Governments had not pursued the matter vigorously. But if politicians come and go the question to ask is to those in the bureaucracy that headed the Agriculture Department and how much they have done to engage on this issue with the central government to bring it to its logical conclusion. Also it’s unfair that the Congress should lay the fault for all unfinished projects at the door of the MDA Government. In this a counter question can be asked as to what the MUA Government, with two back to back tenures, has done for the state.
The other issue is of the Umroi Airport and how soon it can attain a status of a full-fledged airport that will connect Meghalaya to the national capital and other state capitals in the country. Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma has enough clout in the National Government to make this happen. He should take this opportunity to ensure that the airport is fully functional before the National Games 2022. Speaking of the National Games, this is also a great opportunity for the MDA Government to showcase to the nation that it can be trusted to create the best sporting infrastructure if enough funds are made available. So far we have not heard of any scams in the present Government except for its affinity to the illegal coal mining and transportation business that continues to make news. There are also whispers among those with their noses to the ground that some illegal collection is going on from transport vehicles and check/toll gates.
Conrad Sangma and the NPP have been bestowed with public trust to contribute to the future of this state. It is incumbent upon the Chief Minister to ensure that none of his ministers indulge in self-aggrandisement, which many in power succumb to, especially for first timers who are unsure of their next win. Letting down the aspiration of three million people will have its own ‘karma.’ Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma has a degree in Management from a foreign university but Meghalaya does not need a manager. Managers have never brought change in the system. Meghalaya is in need of a bold leader to bring change in their socio-economic status of its people. Questions have been raised about devolution of funds for Sports infrastructure in Garo Hills. These questions need honest answers.