By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 23: Expressing his concern at the slow pace at which Meghalaya is proceeding for Aadhaar registration, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday lamented that Meghalaya might be the last state in the country to complete Aadhaar linkage.
Addressing public concerns at the CM Connect programme at Mawkdok under Laitkroh C&RD Block, Sangma observed that the slow pace of Aadhaar linking will make it difficult for people to access various schemes where money is directly credited to their bank accounts.
Village leaders present at the programme told the CM that many genuinely poor families were not getting their rations.
He explained that since the last census was conducted in 2011, over one lakh families have not been listed in the Socio-Economic Caste Census.
“This exercise will begin by October 2026 and be completed by March 2027. And by then all deserving families will get their rations. However, since every scheme is linked to the Aadhaar it is important for every citizen to have an Aadhaar card,” Sangma said.
“Some people are concerned and that’s because a wrong narrative has been created but I assure you that such narratives are misleading. From July 1 this year, anyone without Aadhaar will not be able to access government schemes,” the CM stated.
Sangma also urged people to ensure their Aadhaar is linked to various welfare schemes, reminding them of the June 30 deadline to avail benefits like PMAY, MHIS, NFSA, and job cards.
“We want to ensure that no one is left behind. These programmes are a reflection of our intent—to serve better by listening better,” he added.
Speaking about the CM Connect Programme, Sangma said that this platform is not to place blame or find fault; it is an opportunity to listen, reflect, and act.
“Everyone makes mistakes, but what’s important is our collective will to solve problems and move forward positively,” he said.
The CM said the primary aim of CM Connect is to hear directly from citizens and to integrate their feedback into government action plans.
According to him, this programme increases the accountability of the system adding that he had witness that even small actions, when guided by local feedback, can bring positive change.
“It is not about one department or officer, it is about us, as a collective government, taking responsibility and working together,” the CM said, adding, “By bringing governance to the grassroots level, the government seeks to build accountability, transparency, and trust.”
During the programme, the CM also unveiled the Mawkdok Skywalk project’s architectural designs, a tourism initiative expected to boost the local economy and create new opportunities in the region.
In an attempt to empower local communities and promote grassroots entrepreneurship, the food served during the programme at Mawkdok was prepared and supplied by local self-help groups.
“CM Connect is not just about interaction; it’s about integration. When we conduct such programmes at the block level, it is our responsibility to ensure that everything — from food to supplies — is procured locally. This way, we encourage SHGs, women-led enterprises, and community-based organisations to take the lead and benefit from government initiatives,” he said.
The CM said that by involving SHGs in logistical aspects like catering, transport, materials, and even event management, the government is creating a sustainable model of participatory development where communities are not just beneficiaries but active stakeholders.
Sangma directed that going forward, all CM Connect events held at the block level will prioritise local procurement — be it food, supplies, or logistical support. He urged block officials and programme organisers to collaborate closely with SHGs and other village-led institutions to implement this approach effectively.
“This is a small but powerful way to ensure that every rupee we spend during these programmes goes back into the local economy,” the CM added.
He extended his gratitude to Sohra MLA Gavin Miguel Mylliem and Mawphlang legislator Matthew Beyondstar Kurbah, as well as the officers present, for their active role in responding to the concerns raised.
The block-level community interaction programme witnessed participation from the public, with representatives from various villages highlighting concerns related to road connectivity, electricity, healthcare, housing, drinking water, banking services, and the implementation of central and state welfare schemes like PMAY, NFSA, and Jal Jeevan Mission.