Cherrapunji gin eyes Swiss market
SHILLONG, July 14: Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin is set to explore opportunities in the Swiss market following a meeting between India’s Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Mridul Kumar, and the brand’s founder, Mayukh Hazarika. According to the Embassy of India in Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Kumar met Hazarika to discuss the prospects of launching the premium Indian craft spirit in Switzerland and promoting the unique heritage and craftsmanship of Northeast India to a wider global audience. The discussions focused on introducing the Meghalaya-inspired craft gin to international consumers while showcasing the region’s rich cultural identity through a premium, locally inspired product. The Embassy described Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin’s growth as a notable example of the “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative, highlighting its potential to strengthen the global presence of Indian-made premium products. The initiative also aligns with the Government of India’s efforts to promote exports and support homegrown brands in international markets through collaboration between the Ministry of External Affairs, the Department of Commerce, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Invest India, and the Make in India programme. If launched successfully in Switzerland, the brand is expected to further enhance the visibility of products originating from Northeast India in global premium beverage markets.
Consultation to boost anti-drug mission in EKH
SHILLONG, July 14: The East Khasi Hills district administration on Tuesday held a stakeholder consultation with drug rehabilitation and counselling centres to strengthen measures against substance abuse under the state’s DREAM (Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission) initiative. Chaired by Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, the meeting was attended by representatives from the police, Civil Hospital Shillong, Supercare Hospital, and the District Social Welfare Office. The consultation is the first in a series aimed at developing a district-level strategy to address drug addiction through medical, law enforcement, and rehabilitation perspectives. During the session, participants highlighted ground-level gaps in treatment, counselling services, and recovery support systems across the district. The DREAM initiative focuses on achieving a drug-free Meghalaya through free counselling, detoxification, a structured 90-day de-addiction programme, and skill development for those in recovery. The district administration stressed that a coordinated approach involving healthcare institutions, law enforcement, and civil society is essential for effective, long-term intervention against the drug menace.
Govt optimistic on coal mining resumption
SHILLONG, July 14: Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla on Monday expressed confidence that efforts to resume coal mining in the state will result in a viable solution. Shylla noted that advancing technology is making scientific mining increasingly feasible. However, he admitted that progress has been slow as the transition from traditional methods remains challenging. He explained that since Meghalaya is largely home to small-scale miners, it is difficult to consolidate the large mining areas required under the scientific mining framework. Referring to a recent meeting in New Delhi, Shylla said the state government had completed the necessary groundwork before holding discussions with the Centre. He described the outcome of those talks as “positive.” The spokesperson acknowledged that the delay in resuming mining has triggered public protests in recent months. Nevertheless, he maintained that the process is moving forward. Shylla added that the government continues to explore avenues to address the concerns of local miners while ensuring compliance with scientific mining regulations.
CM reviews New Shillong infra, sets project deadlines
SHILLONG, July 14: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday reviewed the progress of several flagship infrastructure projects in New Shillong, emphasising the government’s focus on modernising governance and service delivery. Accompanied by the Chief Secretary and senior officials from the Urban Affairs department, the Chief Minister inspected the under-construction New Secretariat Complex, Unity Mall, and the Sports Complex at Umsawli. At the New Secretariat site, Sangma assessed the pace of work and directed officials to maintain high quality standards while ensuring the project is completed within the stipulated timeline. Once operational, the Secretariat will serve as a centralized administrative hub to improve inter-departmental coordination and citizen-centric services. The Chief Minister also visited the Unity Mall, a project designed to provide a dedicated marketplace for local artisans, weavers, and self-help groups. The facility aims to boost local enterprise, promote tourism, and create sustainable livelihoods. Reviewing the Sports Complex at Umsawli, Sangma noted that the world-class facility is intended to nurture local talent and establish Meghalaya as a regional sports hub. During the inspection, the Chief Minister instructed executing agencies to maintain close coordination and adhere to strict safety protocols to expedite construction. He stated that these investments in administrative, commercial, and sports infrastructure are essential for economic growth and improving the quality of life for citizens. The review is part of the state government’s ongoing monitoring of the New Shillong Township, which is being developed as a modern urban and administrative centre.
MSCW probes ‘misleading job placement’ in Pune
SHILLONG, July 14: The Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW) has begun verifying a complaint filed by a local woman who alleged she was misled into a job in Pune following a beautician training course under the ‘Skills Meghalaya’ initiative. The complainant alleged that after completing her training, she was placed in a facility where she was required to provide body massages for men, despite being led to believe she would be performing only facial and hair spa services. Impulse NGO Network, which intervened after the woman returned to the state, highlighted that many trainees reportedly sign contracts without fully understanding the terms due to language barriers. Bariphylla Lytan, case manager at Impulse, noted that such gaps in communication regarding job descriptions leave young people vulnerable to potential exploitation. However, the Meghalaya State Skills Development Society (MSSDS) has denied the allegations. The society stated that an independent verification conducted by its team found no evidence to support the claims against the employer or the empanelled training and placement provider. The MSCW confirmed it is currently investigating the matter. “We have received a letter and are verifying the facts. A report will be prepared once the process is complete,” a Commission official said.
Dam on Kupli opned; downstream residents alerted
JOWAI, July 14: Due to rising water levels in the Khandong Dam on the Kupli River, the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) has begun releasing excess water to ensure the stability of the reservoir. NEEPCO informed the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of West Jaintia Hills that seven spillway gates were opened by 0.30 metres starting at 7:30 PM on July 12. The corporation warned that discharge levels may be increased further if the inflow continues to rise. Following the communication, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Laskein C&RD Block to monitor the situation closely and report any emergencies immediately. Authorities have urged residents living downstream to stay away from the river and relocate livestock and belongings to safer areas. Residents have been advised to strictly follow all safety precautions to prevent any loss of life or property during the water release.
Protest at JHADC for removal of Dolloi
JOWAI, July 14: The Jaintia National Council (JNC) and the Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) on Tuesday staged a protest rally at the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) headquarters, demanding the immediate removal of the Dolloi (traditional head) of Elaka Nongkhlieh. The groups are seeking the Dolloi’s ouster over alleged violations of District Council laws concerning a mining project at Lum Syrman. The protesting organisations expressed disappointment after finding Chief Executive Member (CEM) Thombor Shiwat absent from his office, despite having prior information regarding the rally. According to the JNC and JSU, the Dolloi allegedly colluded with agents of Shree Cement to facilitate the forceful encroachment of ancestral lands in Elaka Nongkhlieh. They asserted that the mining activities and land acquisitions were being carried out in contravention of established legal and administrative procedures. Reaffirming their commitment to protecting indigenous land rights, the organisations stated that they would continue to press for lawful governance to ensure that local communities are not exploited. They have urged the JHADC leadership to intervene and safeguard the interests of the villagers.
Curbs lifted at Weisawdong Falls
SHILLONG, July 14: The Sohra Civil Sub-Division has lifted the prohibitory orders at Weisawdong Falls after rival claimants from Laitduh and Umblai villages reached an amicable settlement, resolving the law and order concerns surrounding the tourist spot. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mark A Challam on Tuesday revoked the order issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, stating there was no longer any imminent apprehension of a breach of peace. The restrictions were originally imposed on July 3 following tensions between the two villages over the popular three-tiered waterfall near Sohra. The decision to lift the order followed a joint meeting convened by the Sohra civil administration with representatives of Laitduh and Umblai. During the meeting, both sides resolved their immediate differences and agreed to maintain peace and public order. While all restrictions have been withdrawn, the administration clarified that the move would not preclude authorities from taking legal action should any future disturbances arise.
