Studies on sustainable devp & tourism investment unveiled
SHILLONG, May 23: Two significant studies aimed at promoting sustainable development and enhancing tourism investment in Meghalaya were unveiled during a stakeholder meeting held at the Main Secretariat on Friday. The event was organised by NEDFi Ltd under its Techno Economic Development Fund. The first study titled ‘Study of Urban Renewal in Towns and Cities of Meghalaya and Measures for Transforming Them into Engines of Sustainable Growth and Development’ offers strategies, recommendations and actionable measures to promote sustainable urban growth. It also seeks to develop a pipeline of projects aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 for urban local bodies, including census towns across the state. The second study ‘Status of Investment by the Private Sector in Tourism in Meghalaya’, on the other hand, presents a comprehensive overview of Meghalaya’s tourism sector. It identifies promising tourism zones, analyses investment patterns, reviews regulatory frameworks and addresses challenges faced by private investors. The study further outlines employment opportunities, highlights the need for capacity building and promotes community-based tourism, thereby offering policy and strategic recommendations. It may be mentioned that the meeting was chaired by Commissioner and Secretary in charge of Planning department, Cyril V. Diengdoh, and was attended by senior officials and stakeholders from various departments, including Transport, Tourism, Urban Affairs, PHE, Agriculture & Horticulture, Police, PWD and the Directorate of Housing, along with tour operators and representatives from the Federation of Shillong Hotels. Representing NEDFi were General Manager Olee Bora, Deputy General Manager Dr. Smita Khaund, Branch Manager Tabitha Marbaniang and Manager Dr. Dharmindra Bortamuly.
SWGH DC inspects key projects in Mahendraganj, other areas
AMPATI, May 23: South West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak, accompanied by Zikzak Block Development Officer Digonto Hajong, conducted a series of inspection visits across Mahendraganj and nearby areas on Friday to assess the progress of ongoing health, education and infrastructure projects. The visits were aimed at realising the district administration’s commitment to the effective implementation of government schemes and improving the quality of life for all citizens, with a strong focus on enhancing service delivery and infrastructure development in South West Garo Hills. The DC inspected the Mahendraganj Community Health Centre (CHC), reviewing departmental registers, the USG room and transit rooms. During her visit, she also held discussions with Dr Noor Ain Khan, Senior M&HO In-Charge, regarding the implementation of various government health programmes, including Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) and the Megha Health Insurance Scheme (MHIS). Nayak expressed satisfaction with the CHC’s achievements, which include zero maternal deaths and zero home deliveries over the past two years, and zero infant deaths and stillbirths recorded in the past four months. The DC then reviewed the progress of the Science and Commerce College in Mahendraganj and stressed the importance of maintaining construction quality and completing the project on time so that the academic session can commence in August 2025. As Chairperson of the District Water and Sanitation Mission (DWSM), the DC conducted a field inspection of the Silkona Combined Water Supply Scheme, accompanied by the BDO, Executive Engineer (PHE) Ampati Division, SDO (PHE) Ampati Sub-Division, Junior Engineers and the project contractor. It was informed that the scheme is expected to benefit 11 villages, covering 1,880 households. Ten villages are already receiving water supply, while pipeline work is ongoing in the remaining villages. Physical progress currently stands at 92%, with pumping operations temporarily halted due to a power supply issue at the intake area. The DC then instructed the concerned authorities to resolve the power issue urgently and ensure the project’s timely completion. The visit concluded with an inspection of the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV) in Zikzak, where the DC interacted with students and teachers and reviewed the school’s infrastructure and functioning.
State environmentalist conferred with Gems of North East Award
SHILLONG, May 23: Meghalaya-based environmentalist and nature advocate Naba Bhattacharjee has been conferred with the ‘Gems of North East Award’ (1st Edition) by the Times Network—Times Now and ET Now Swadesh—for his exceptional contribution in the field of excellence in environment conservation and sustainability. Expressing his gratitude, Bhattacharjee said, “Humbled and honoured to be conferred with the ‘Gems of North East Award.’ The award and recognition is like a hydration break in a marathon race. Thanks to Times Network.” The award ceremony, described as an evening of inspiration, innovation and impact, recognised individuals and organisations who have brought about meaningful change in their respective fields while upholding the spirit and resilience of the Northeast region. Bhattacharjee’s work, which spans decades of dedication to preserving Meghalaya’s unique ecological heritage and promoting sustainable practices, has earned him both local and national recognition. This award marks yet another milestone in a career grounded in environmental activism, community engagement and scientific awareness.
JSU backs acting NEHU VC amid campus turmoil
SHILLONG, May 23: The Jaintia Students’ Union JSU has come out in full support of North-Eastern Hill University’s (NEHU) acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sherwin May Sungoh, amid ongoing internal tensions following the recent Academic Council meeting. Led by Advisor A. Suchiang, a JSU delegation called on Prof. Sungoh on Friday to formally convey their solidarity and appreciation for her leadership during a period of uncertainty at the university. The JSU described the support as essential to maintaining institutional stability and restoring academic normalcy. The meeting comes in the backdrop of reported tensions after the Academic Council session held on May 21, 2025, which was chaired by Prof. Sungoh during the absence of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prabha Shukla. Following the meeting, reports surfaced that Prof. Shukla had issued a warning and hinted at action against Prof. Sungoh—moves that raised concern among university stakeholders. In their letter submitted to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, the JSU stated, “We express our hope and confidence in your leadership as a potential future Vice-Chancellor of the university.” They noted that ongoing protests and administrative disruptions have taken a toll on the university community and highlighted the importance of decisive and stabilising leadership. The students’ union also acknowledged the guidance of the Academic Council under Prof. Sungoh, calling it “crucial for restoring normalcy and ensuring the smooth functioning of academic and administrative activities at NEHU”. The JSU concluded with a call to all stakeholders to prioritise the well-being of the student community and work collectively toward the university’s larger goals.