SHILLONG, Oct 30:
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday held the CM Connect programme at Thangsning village under Mawkynrew Block, East Khasi Hills District, where he interacted directly with residents to hear their concerns, suggestions, and developmental priorities.
The CM Connect initiative is the Meghalaya Government’s flagship citizen engagement platform, designed to strengthen grassroots participation and ensure that policies and programmes are aligned with local needs. The platform underscores the government’s vision of inclusive, participatory, and accountable governance, bridging the gap between citizens and administration.
During the interaction, community representatives raised several key issues, including the need for Higher Secondary Schools and a Community College, challenges in implementing MNREGA, creation of additional Anganwadi Centres, setting up of a Veterinary Centre, expansion of the Water Supply Scheme, improvement of road connectivity and bridge infrastructure, development of an artificial turf ground, and strengthening of the power supply network.
Responding to public feedback, the Chief Minister announced a host of developmental initiatives, including the sanction of ₹13.35 crore for the construction of the Jongksha–Thynroit Bridge, which will significantly improve connectivity in the region. He also announced approval for the construction of an Artificial Turf adjacent to the Indoor Stadium at Mawkynrew Constituency to promote youth engagement in sports.
Addressing concerns over early childhood care, the Chief Minister announced the establishment of 1,700 new Mini Anganwadi Centres across Meghalaya within the next two years to cover uncovered villages. In the interim, these centres will operate from community spaces within three months. Additionally, ₹60 lakh has been sanctioned for the repair and maintenance of 20 existing Anganwadi Centres under the State Scheme.
On strengthening veterinary services, Sangma directed officials to ensure adequate manpower and supply of medicines across all three dispensaries in the block.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to the education sector, the Chief Minister informed that Meghalaya spends over ₹3,500 crore annually on education, of which ₹2,000 crore goes towards salaries. He noted that 4,500 private aided schools receive ₹1,000 crore in grants, the highest among North Eastern states.
“To improve efficiency and ensure equity, the government will restructure grants for Adhoc and SSA schools and rationalize school categorization to strengthen quality education delivery,” Sangma said.
He further emphasized the government’s focus on strengthening multi-level rural schools that currently function as combined LP, UP, and Secondary institutions, to ensure better access and quality learning outcomes.
Speaking on the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Mission, Sangma said it provides a holistic, life-cycle approach encompassing health, nutrition, and education from early years to adolescence.
The Chief Minister also encouraged construction workers to register for labour cards to avail of welfare benefits under the Labour Cess Fund.
During the programme, farmers highlighted the need for quality seeds and modern farm equipment. In response, Sangma announced that the CM FARM+ and CM SEEDS schemes would be expanded and additional funds allocated to support diversified farming activities across the state.
Thanking the residents for their participation, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said,
“Your valuable inputs and cooperation enable us to serve you better. Together, we will build stronger communities and ensure that every household benefits from our development efforts.”
