By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 28: Eight years into power, the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government on Saturday projected a record of stability, infrastructure-led growth and targeted welfare, with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma outlining the administration’s journey and future direction at a programme held at SRGT Football Ground, Shillong.
The Chief Minister addressed a gathering in the presence of Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira and Umsning MLA and Government Chief Whip, Celestine Lyngdoh, along with officials and beneficiaries from the Khasi and Jaintia districts.
Sangma said the government’s vision has been to transform the state and make a meaningful difference in the lives of its citizens. He said over the past eight years, Meghalaya has navigated multiple challenges while leveraging opportunities to move forward with purpose.
He stated that the progress achieved reflects both the challenges faced and the opportunities embraced, supported by collective leadership and public trust.
He maintained that while the government does not claim to have achieved everything, it has set a clear direction for the future, driven by the confidence of the people.
Highlighting political stability as a key factor, the Chief Minister said a stable environment over the past eight years has enabled consistent governance, long-term planning and decision-making in the interest of the state.
On development, Sangma said infrastructure-led growth has been central to Meghalaya’s progress, with 1,576 projects initiated in the Khasi Hills region and projects worth approximately Rs 21,000 crore in the Jaintia Hills region.
He added that major initiatives include road development, tourism infrastructure and expansion of the New Shillong area.
The Chief Minister said the government focused on ensuring that economic growth remains inclusive and people-centric, with several welfare schemes implemented across sectors.
He disclosed that under the PRIME programme, around Rs 32.7 crore has been disbursed over the last five years, Rs 136 crore invested in the homestay sector to boost tourism and livelihoods, and Rs 40 crore allocated to promote grassroots music.
He further stated that environmental conservation has been a priority, with Rs 120 crore allocated under Green Meghalaya initiatives to support community-led forest preservation.
Referring to education and livelihood initiatives, he said nearly one lakh students have benefited from the Chief Minister’s Scholarship scheme, receiving Rs 6,000 each, amounting to Rs 60 crore.
He added that CM Elevate has supported beneficiaries with Rs 146 crore, Rs 56 crore has been disbursed under LIFCOM to provide working capital to small farmers and organisations, and Rs 50 crore invested in floriculture development, taking the total investment in welfare schemes to nearly Rs 500 crore.
The Chief Minister emphasised that development must be inclusive, stating that progress can only be achieved when all sections of society are carried along.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he said the administration will continue to work with determination, guided by a clear vision and the aspirations of the people.
He felicitated 37 village heads in recognition of their leadership under the Green Meghalaya programme. In addition, 128 Community Halls under MegLife supported by JICA and 34 warehouses and Common Facility Centres under CM Elevate were virtually inaugurated during the event.
