CM, Dy CMs felicitated by truckers’ bodies for OTS scheme
SHILLONG, July 1: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday said political leaders are often criticised when public expectations are not met, but are rarely appreciated for decisions that bring tangible benefits to people’s lives.
Speaking at a felicitation programme organised by the Joint Action Committee of the East Jaintia Hills Truck Owners and Transporters’ Association and the Jaintia Hills Truck Owners’ Association, he said the event was meaningful because it recognised the efforts of elected representatives, who are frequently blamed during difficult times but seldom acknowledged when they deliver solutions.
“Politicians are usually criticised when things go wrong or when expectations are not fulfilled. However, when decisions are taken that positively impact the lives of thousands of people, such efforts are rarely recognised,” the Chief Minister said.
The programme was organised to honour Sangma and Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar for introducing the One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for commercial vehicles.
Highlighting the significance of the scheme, Sangma said the government made a difficult but people-centric decision by writing off dues amounting to Rs 850-1,000 crore to provide relief to thousands of transporters struggling under accumulated liabilities.
He said the government was fully aware that the revenue could have been utilised for other developmental purposes, but chose instead to prioritise the welfare of nearly 16,000 truck owners and their families, affecting an estimated two lakh people across the state.
“Development is not only about constructing roads, buildings, or stadiums. It is also about ensuring that government policies and decisions improve the lives of ordinary citizens,” he said.
The chief minister stressed that governance must balance large infrastructure projects with measures that directly address people’s concerns. Responding to criticism that the government focuses only on major projects, he said the administration has simultaneously worked on resolving long-pending issues affecting teachers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and other sections of society.
He called on all stakeholders to work collectively to maintain financial discipline and prevent backlogs, assuring that the government would continue strengthening institutional systems while keeping citizens at the centre of policymaking.
Sangma also acknowledged the contributions of Tynsong and Dhar in championing the concerns of the transport community and helping bring the OTS proposal before the government.
Addressing the gathering, Tynsong described the transport sector as a vital pillar of Meghalaya’s economy and urged beneficiaries to treat the OTS scheme as an opportunity to revive and expand their businesses.
Dhar defended the government’s record, stating that the National People’s Party-led government remained focused on development despite criticism from various quarters.
He said more than Rs 15,000 crore worth of projects were currently under implementation in the New Shillong Township and maintained that development had reached all sectors, including roads, healthcare, education, and power.
“People may continue to criticise us, but we do not have time to dwell on negativity. Our focus remains on serving the people and ensuring the state’s progress,” Dhar said.
