By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 2: The Hynniewtrep Youth Development Council (HYDC) on Tuesday called for a comprehensive state employment policy, stricter enforcement of local hiring norms, and greater transparency in the management of government-owned commercial properties.
While acknowledging the Meghalaya Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy (MIIP)-2024, the HYDC noted that a significant portion of jobs are generated in the service sector—including shopping malls, private hospitals, hotels, and petrol pumps. The organisation urged the government to formulate a broader policy to ensure local residents are prioritised across all commercial sectors, not just in industries.
The HYDC also demanded a district-wise audit of industries to ensure compliance with local employment quotas. It sought the publication of data showing the ratio of local to non-local workers, particularly in technical and managerial positions, to verify if companies receiving state incentives are meeting their hiring commitments.
Regarding labour welfare, the council sought strict enforcement of minimum wage laws, alleging that workers at some petrol pumps receive pay far below prescribed rates. It also requested the government to release detailed placement records for youth trained under various state skill development programmes to assess their effectiveness.
Further, the HYDC raised concerns over the management of commercial properties under the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA). Citing RTI findings, the group called for a statewide audit of MUDA complexes to investigate cases of unauthorised occupation or illegal subletting. It proposed that future allotments be reserved for unemployed local youth, start-ups, and self-help groups.
The HYDC stated that while it supports the state’s goal of becoming a $10-billion economy, such growth must be backed by fair wages and sustainable employment for the youth of Meghalaya.
