By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 22: The state government is considering plans to improve the facilities at various Meghalaya Houses, particularly in Vellore and Guwahati, the Minister in charge of General Administration Department (GAD), Rakkam Sangma, said on Thursday.
The government is evaluating proposals to enhance infrastructure in Vellore and Guwahati, where a significant number of Meghalaya residents seek medical care.
These houses serve as crucial accommodation for Meghalaya residents seeking medical treatment or pursuing educational opportunities outside the state.
During the fifth day of the budget session of the Assembly here, Sangma, while answering to a starred question, said that the Meghalaya government has appointed a joint resident commissioner at the Meghalaya House in Kolkata and an Additional Resident Commissioner in Mumbai.
In Guwahati, where most visitors are patients requiring medical treatment, the government is exploring options to build another Meghalaya House. However, progress on this initiative has been hindered by delays in responses from the Assam government regarding land acquisition, informed Sangma.
Gambeggre MLA Saleng Sangma, taking part in the discussion, said that there is no need to wait for the Assam government as there is tourism land in Khanapara, which belongs to Meghalaya.
The Chief Minister, coming to the rescue, since tourism is not the GAD Minister’s department, added, “Discussions have been initiated with Assam authorities to secure additional land for the construction of Meghalaya Houses. Furthermore, plans are in motion within the Tourism department to develop a multi-purpose facility, including a guest house and dormitory for students, in Khanapara.”
