SHILLONG, Sep 25: The State Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal from the Excise department to implement a QR code-based tracking system for products sold by the department, aimed at addressing revenue leaks.
Following the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma stated, “This will allow tracking of the entire journey of a bottle, ensuring we know exactly where it was meant to be sold and if there were any leaks in the system. It will help monitor the entire supply chain.”
According to the Chief Minister, this initiative is expected to reduce revenue leakage by 5% to 10%, plugging the gaps in the current system through the use of QR code technology.
In addition, the cabinet approved a proposal for composite licences for hotels, particularly five-star establishments, to create a more streamlined system. Previously, hotels were required to obtain separate licences for each restaurant or bar. For instance, a hotel with four bars or restaurants had to apply for four different licences to serve alcohol. “The idea is to provide a single composite licence for the entire establishment, eliminating the need for multiple applications. However, the charges will be higher compared to standard bar licences. This amendment was proposed by the Excise department and has now been approved by the Cabinet,” he added.
Appointments
The Cabinet also approved the appointment of IPS officer H Nongpluh as a non-judicial member of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC).
The Chief Minister informed that following the retirement of the previous non-judicial members, the selection committee, headed by the CM, proposed the name of retired IPS officer H Nongpluh for the position. The proposal was approved by the Cabinet.
Nongpluh, who is currently serving as the State Chief Information Commissioner, will complete his tenure on December 2.
In addition, a committee led by the Chief Secretary reviewed a panel of candidates and recommended Lieutenant Colonel Sebastian Marbaniang for the post of Zila Sainik Officer, Shillong, which was also approved.
