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Govt backtracks on investment plan

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Amendment to State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Act to ensure strict adherence to Land Transfer Act: CM

SHILLONG, Jan 15: The state government has made amendments to the Meghalaya State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Act, 2024, to address concerns raised by various stakeholders, including the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the public, regarding certain provisions of the Act.
Originally enacted to streamline the investment process, the Act faced criticism for its perceived shortcomings, particularly related to land procurement and regulatory compliance.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the state Cabinet has incorporated a key provision to eliminate ambiguity regarding land procurement or allotment under the Meghalaya Investment Promotion Authority (MIPA). The amendment ensures strict adherence to the Meghalaya Land Transfer Regulation Act, 1971.
The Cabinet has also decided to repeal Section 34 of the Act, which allowed it to override other laws. “We will add another clause stating that this Act shall not derogate the Meghalaya Land Transfer Regulation Act,” Sangma said.
Additionally, the amendments will require investors to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the autonomous district councils. A separate application process for this NOC will also be introduced.
The Chief Minister further stated that incentives under the Act will now be reserved for industries which actively create employment opportunities for local residents, ensuring direct benefits for individuals domiciled in Meghalaya.
As part of the revisions, the MIPA will be renamed and restructured to better align with the revised provisions.
It is worth noting that the KHADC had earlier passed a resolution urging the state government to consult stakeholders before implementing the Act.
With these amendments, the government aims to strike a balance between fostering investments and addressing local concerns.
Town & Country Planning Scheme
In a bid to ensure systematic development of the New Shillong Township, the Cabinet has approved the implementation of the Meghalaya Town & Country Planning Scheme.
Sangma said the master plan for the township encompasses an area of 290 sq km. However, development in the township has so far been carried out at various levels without a unified plan, leading to uncoordinated growth.
“The lack of coordination among stakeholders has resulted in unplanned development. This scheme aims to bring all stakeholders together to plan, approve, and discuss town and countryside planning in a coordinated manner,” he explained.
Under the scheme, the government will collaborate with local traditional institutions such as Rangbah Shnongs, Elakas and district councils to review and approve development initiatives.
Sangma emphasized that no developmental project will proceed without unanimous consent from all stakeholders, ensuring that every perspective is considered.
The Chief Minister clarified that the scheme is not intended to interfere with anyone’s rights. “It will serve as a platform for all stakeholders to come together and discuss development plans,” he added.
An ordinance is being introduced to amend the Meghalaya Town & Country Planning Act, which will also necessitate changes to the Building Bye-Laws.

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