By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 29: Mawsynram MLA and Co-Chairman of the State Planning Board, Ollan Sing Suin, has called for stronger transparency in the implementation of MLA schemes and said the existing annual allocation is inadequate for addressing the needs of communities across the state.
Suin said transparency must be enhanced across all MLA-funded initiatives. He stated that each legislator currently receives ₹2.5 crore annually, but he described the amount as far too small to support livelihood programmes and to create lasting community assets.
He said the allocation was ‘not sufficient,’ and that any increase would significantly help MLAs implement schemes more effectively in their respective constituencies.
Recalling his priorities from the day he assumed office, Suin said he had asked himself what changes he could bring and how he could lead the people of his constituency. He said he was clear from the beginning that transparency in the Special Rural Works Programme (SRWP) would be non-negotiable. According to him, all proposals and beneficiary lists under the SRWP were submitted promptly to ensure the department could move forward without delay. He said there had never been any lag from his side, adding that project documents and beneficiary lists were always forwarded simultaneously for every SRWP scheme. Suin said transparency was a principle he committed to upholding, not merely a procedural obligation. He added that beneficiary selection and project execution in his constituency were carried out without favouritism, with all eligible individuals receiving timely communication. According to him, this was essential for building trust among the public and ensuring that government funds directly benefited the people they were meant for.
He said the demands of constituencies have grown significantly, with community expectations rising alongside gaps in infrastructure and livelihood needs. Suin said the current allocation restricts the scope of development and urged the government to reconsider the sanctioned amount so that MLAs can address these challenges more effectively.
Suin also said the Planning Board could strengthen oversight and examine implementation patterns across districts to ensure uniform standards of transparency and efficiency. He added that improving the system would not only enhance project delivery but also help restore public confidence in MLA schemes. With community needs expanding and legislators expected to deliver more with limited resources, Suin said a revision of the allocation and a firm commitment to transparency were essential for ensuring that developmental works genuinely reach the people.
