Uplift of socio-economic conditions due to central schemes: Speaker

NONGSTOIN, Sep 27: Assembly Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh on Monday said that central government schemes, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), have been instrumental in uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the people in Meghalaya, particularly those residing in the rural areas.
The Speaker said this during an awareness programme organised by the Office of the Mairang Block Development Officer, at Laitdom Presbyterian Secondary School, Laitdom Mawlieh.
Lyngdoh, who was the chief guest during the programme, also urged upon the gathering to adapt to the changes brought about by new guidelines and procedures, aimed at streamlining the implementation of governmental schemes and programmes.
The gathering at the awareness programme was also enlightened on other central schemes, save MGNREGS.
Speaking on the COVID-19 situation, the Speaker emphasised on the need for all stakeholders to remain vigilant during the second wave of the pandemic by strictly adhering to all health protocols and advisories issued by the government.
He also spoke about the enthusiastic community participation during the first wave of the pandemic.
Lyngdoh also cautioned the gathering against fake news and misinformation.
He also admitted that people falling prey to misinformation has somewhat impacted the fight against COVID-19.
Later, a skit on ‘Protect Your Child from COVID-19’ was organised by a team comprising health officials from Laitdom PHC and locals as part of the awareness programme. The team was led by World Health Organization (WHO) representative, Dr Anita.
The awareness programme was then followed by a COVID-19 vaccination drive.
Others who attended the programme include Mairang BDO, V Syiem, Indian Red Cross Society representative, A Sawian, District Programme Manager, DDU-GKY, Nongstoin, B Marbaniang, Laitdom Mawlieh headman, H Lawriniang, religious leaders, et al.