By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 29: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday to review Meghalaya’s development progress, discuss ongoing challenges, and seek continued central support to accelerate the state’s growth.
In a post-meeting video message, Sangma described the interaction as an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey over the past seven to eight years, which has seen significant achievements amid various challenges.
He briefed the Prime Minister on advancements in infrastructure, economic growth, healthcare, education, and social development. Sangma also highlighted key concerns and submitted proposals for consideration in the upcoming Union Budget and the Finance Commission’s recommendations.
Expressing gratitude for the Centre’s focus on the Northeast, Sangma credited PM Modi’s leadership for extending numerous programmes and schemes that have benefited the region, including Meghalaya.
“A large number of development programmes have been extended to the Northeast, making a huge difference. Meghalaya, too, has benefited greatly,” he said.
Sangma highlighted the state’s strong economic performance, noting that Meghalaya is the second fastest-growing economy in the country, with an average GSDP growth of about 10 per cent over the past three years.
He reiterated the state government’s expectation of sustained central assistance to maintain this momentum. “We look forward to continuous support from the Prime Minister and the Government of India for taking the state of Meghalaya forward,” he added.
During the meeting, Sangma submitted comprehensive documents outlining Meghalaya’s growth trajectory, the Vision 2032 roadmap for sustained economic expansion, and policy proposals aligned with the national goal of Viksit Bharat.
Key requests included strengthening the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, with a call for at least Rs 2 lakh crore allocation nationally in the coming year. Sangma sought special provisions for smaller Northeastern states (excluding Assam), proposing an increase from the current 100 per cent to 200–300 per cent of their Part I allocation over the next few years.
He highlighted Meghalaya’s effective use of SASCI funds, which rose from Rs 1,200 crore in FY 2021 to Rs 2,370 crore in 2025. These have supported major investments: over Rs 2,000 crore in road connectivity, Rs 900 crore in urban water supply, and Rs 125 crore in power projects like the Ganol Hydroelectric Project.
“SASCI has been crucial in strengthening Meghalaya’s infrastructure and improving livelihoods,” Sangma stated, noting its role in driving reforms, employment, and long-term growth in the Northeast.
Additionally, he requested approval for a Rs 15,000-crore Externally Aided Project, a 1 per cent increase in tax devolution with a special share for the seven smaller Northeastern states, and an annual Rs 14,000-crore infrastructure grant for five years via the Sixteenth Finance Commission.
Sangma emphasised EAPs’ value in sustaining investments beyond state budgets and driving sectoral transformation. Meghalaya currently implements 15 EAPs worth Rs 12,166 crore (including Rs 9,126 crore in loans), with two more under negotiation and Rs 15,000 crore in projects lined up for the Finance Commission period.
