Shillong, 13 August 2025: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today laid the foundation for the Improvement of Infrastructure and Public Amenities Project at Iewduh, funded by the North Eastern Council (NEC). On the occasion, he also distributed cheques under the Chief Minister’s Urban Livelihood Grant to beneficiaries from Iewduh.
Also present at the event were Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Ampareen Lyngdoh, along with the Syiem and members of Hima Mylliem.
Speaking at the programme, the Chief Minister recalled his childhood visits to Iewduh and observed that despite the passage of over three decades, the market had seen little significant development.
“This lack of development in the State’s most important economic centre does not match the broader economic growth story of our nation and our State. All the infrastructure we are building, and the $10 billion economy we aspire to achieve, will mean nothing if we cannot improve the livelihoods of ordinary citizens and make a difference in the lives of hardworking families,” he said.
He informed that the government had already initiated the first phase of Iewduh’s improvement project worth approximately ₹5 crore.
“Today, we are here to lay the foundation for the second phase, amounting to about ₹14 crore, funded by NEC. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the third phase, amounting to around ₹20 crore, is also being prepared,” he added.
Urging shopkeepers and vendors to take ownership of the market’s upkeep, the Chief Minister emphasised cleanliness.
“This is our market. While the government and Hima Mylliem will do our part, it is your responsibility to keep Iewduh clean so that it becomes one of the most beautiful markets not just in Shillong but in the entire North East,” he said.
Highlighting the CM Urban Livelihood Grant, the Chief Minister said the idea originated during his visit to Iewduh in May.
“The purpose of this scheme is not merely to provide financial assistance, but to convey the message of dignity of labour. It is the government’s way of telling you that your work matters and that we are committed to enhancing your livelihoods,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of vendor registration with Hima Mylliem to build a comprehensive database and a structured system for implementing the scheme, announcing that it would be extended to other urban markets in the State.
Note: Under the CM Urban Livelihood Grant, a one-time assistance of ₹10,000 is provided to registered vendors to help them enhance their livelihoods through material procurement, infrastructure creation, and other improvements.
