By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 2: The Committee on Environment has reaffirmed its dedication to overseeing environmental issues, while stressing the importance of ongoing, cooperative efforts to protect Meghalaya’s ecological future.
The NPP’s Jowai MLA, Wailadmiki Shylla, who chaired the committee’s internal meeting held at the administrative block of the main Assembly building, said the session was organised to foster direct dialogue with departments tackling environmental and climate change challenges in the state.
“In light of the current situation, it is crucial to assess existing measures and understand the long-term strategies being implemented. The presentations offered valuable insights, showcasing departmental initiatives and plans for two to three decades,” he noted.
He added that the committee also put forward constructive recommendations to enhance these initiatives.
“Today’s meeting was an important step toward developing a coordinated and resilient environmental strategy for Meghalaya,” Shylla said.
The main purpose of the meeting was to evaluate the progress and status of climate change and environmental programmes across various departments. Four key government bodies delivered detailed presentations.
The Planning, Investment Promotion, and Sustainable Development Department presented on climate change policy planning and strategic initiatives. The Forest and Environment department focused on climate change efforts, particularly funding mechanisms and resource mobilisation. The Soil and Water Conservation department presented on watershed management and conservation practices. The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board provided an overview of the current environmental status across the State.
The committee engaged in an in-depth review of the presentations, gaining valuable insights into the scope, impact, and future direction of each department’s initiatives.
The discussions underscored the importance of inter-departmental coordination, long-term planning, and proactive climate action to ensure environmental sustainability.
The committee members who attended the meeting included the UDP’s Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, the HSPDP’s Mawshynrut MLA Methodius Dkhar, the VPP’s Mawryngkneng MLA Heaving Stone Kharpran, and co-opted member Wishming Ryngkhlem.
Officials from the government departments concerned, district administrations, and the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Secretariat also participated in the meeting.