SHILLONG, Dec 31: 2023, a pivotal year for the state, unfolded with legislative elections reshaping power dynamics and an array of shaky law and order situations. However, the expectations for a better and brighter state in the upcoming year continue to echo in the minds of renowned citizens, dreaming of more job opportunities and improved development infrastructure.
Director of Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation, Alan West Kharkongor, expressed his hope that in 2024, the state will emphasise the significance of sustainable tourism, highlighting its positive impact on both the local populace and visitors, fostering authentic cultural experiences.
Kharkongor further stressed the need for a stable environment, stating that conflicts can deter tourism, as witnessed in Meghalaya during regional unrest. Emphasising on the need for a conducive environment for tourism, he mentioned,
“When conflict arises, it often leads to instability and insecurity which can discourage visitors from traveling. This was the case in Meghalaya, which saw a significant decrease in tourism when conflict arose within the state or any neighboring states of Northeast India. Violence or instability makes news. The stories shape public opinion, which could bring about hesitation over travel even if the conflict is restricted to another region.”
Bobby Nongbet, Head Coach, Shillong Lajong FC, focused on the need for more sports facilities, emphasising infrastructures for training and competitions on a wider scale for various disciplines. He expressed concern over the malicious increase in drug indulgence, which is impacting the interest, opportunity, and performance of youngsters in the field of sports.
Nongbet hoped for constructive measures to address this concern in the upcoming year.
Meghalaya would not be anything without the natural beauty and forest cover. Naba Bhattacharjee, Chairman of the State Expert Appraisal Committee on environment, Meghalaya, representing Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, emphasised the state’s need to prioritise environmental restoration, reclaim water bodies, and address mining-affected areas in 2024. He called for innovative technological initiatives to tackle traffic congestion in Shillong, proposing the creation of satellite townships and multiple road networks.
What would Meghalaya be without the natural treasures and forest cover?
Emphasising that the state should work towards prioritising environmental restoration and reclaiming water bodies and mining-affected areas in 2024, Bhattacharjee called for innovative technological initiatives to tackle traffic congestion in Shillong, proposing the creation of satellite townships and multiple road networks.
Professor Prasenjit Biswas from North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) envisioned positive changes in the upcoming year, focusing on growth, job opportunities, and accessible higher education. He urged alternative decisions at political, cultural, and economic fronts to achieve these goals.
It is not an equal world after all, and hoping 2024 treats everyone equally irrespective of gender and sexual inclination, transgender activist Bakor expressed hope for 2024 to be a turning point against discrimination.
She wished for a celebration of diversity, freedom to love, and acceptance of individual identities.
Air Peace Rani, Professor, and general secretary of Meghalaya College Teachers Association, aimed for a reduction in school dropout rates and sincere implementation of the New Education Policy in 2024. Rani also called for increased job opportunities for youth, filling government department vacancies, and prioritising good governance for infrastructure development and tourism enhancement.
Political activist Angela Rangad anticipated 2024 as a crucial year for defending dissent, democratic values, and religious pluralism. She encouraged citizens to work hard to reclaim these fundamental principles.
Activist Agnes Kharshiing emphasized the importance of government servants acting with honesty to protect the government and uphold laws. She urged public servants to refrain from exploiting their positions, ensuring respect for decisions made in the Assembly.
