By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 26: State BJP vice president and Tura MDC Bernard N. Marak on Sunday demanded mandatory engagement of at least 50 per cent local labour in all projects and works undertaken in Garo Hills.
He said nearly 80 per cent of youth are unemployed, with around 60 per cent being dropouts due to lack of livelihood opportunities, and stressed that they must be involved in local works as part of social rehabilitation.
Marak alleged that major projects under schemes such as Gati Shakti, PMGSY, JJM and works under PWD and PHE often rely on outside labourers, resulting in substandard work that deteriorates quickly while also depriving local youth of employment.
Stating that frustration among unemployed youth is rising, he said he plans to initiate a holistic support programme to engage dropout youths in daily wage activities. He also proposed encouraging night schools and online education, adding that discussions with distance education authorities have already begun.
Taking a firm stand on regulation, Marak said illegal traders, hawkers and daily wage earners without proper licences would not be allowed entry into Garo Hills. He pointed to notices issued by the GHADC to check such activities and said those bringing labourers from outside must obtain No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from Nokmas, as land falls under their custody.
He further said that with NOCs and recommendations from local MDCs, individuals must apply for relevant licences from GHADC, warning that contractors or house owners sheltering workers without proper documentation would face action under provisions of the Sixth Schedule.
Maintaining that there is no shortage of skilled and unskilled labourers in Garo Hills, Marak reiterated that local youths must be prioritised. He also raised concern over illegal migrants entering Nokma lands without authorisation, stating that such actions undermine traditional authority and will not be tolerated.
