By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 6: Former Nongkrem MLA and MDC, Lambor Malngiang, has said that the foundation stone he laid for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) works in Madanrting — mocked by many during the 2023 election campaign — has now become a reality, with the 100 days’ wage scheme officially functioning in the locality.
Malngiang made the remarks while addressing a thanksgiving gathering organised by the Dorbar Shnong of Madanrting on Thursday at the community hall, attended by over 300 job card holders. The programme was held to express gratitude to Malngiang for his efforts in ensuring that the locality, despite falling under the Shillong Municipal Board, could benefit from the MGNREGA scheme.
Recalling the struggle behind the project, Malngiang said he had personally met the Union Minister for Rural Development nearly 15 times during the COVID-19 period to push for inclusion of Madanrting under the rural employment scheme. “When I laid the foundation stone, there were some who mocked it as an election stunt meant to fool the people. But time has spoken, and today the same stone stands as proof of commitment and not politics,” he said.
Expressing satisfaction over the scheme’s implementation, Malngiang added, “Even though I am no longer your MLA or MDC, I am the happiest man today because the hard work for the people of Madanrting has borne fruit. Very soon, this locality will see real transformation.”
Madanrting Rangbah Shnong, Ricky Evans Lygdoh, thanked Malngiang for paving the way for the 100 days’ work scheme to reach the locality, calling it a long-awaited opportunity for the unemployed and economically weaker residents. He, however, noted that some individuals had tried to tarnish the image of the Dorbar Shnong and the Village Employment Council (VEC) by spreading corruption allegations, warning that the community would deal firmly with such attempts.
Residents also expressed their appreciation to Malngiang for bringing the MGNREGA benefits to Madanrting, urging fellow villagers not to forget those who have worked for their welfare and to continue fostering mutual respect and gratitude.
The 100 days’ work scheme in Madanrting began earlier this year, with a sanctioned budget of over ₹84 lakh. A total of 348 residents have received job cards under the programme, which has provided much-needed livelihood support to low-income families and sparked visible positive change in the locality.
