Shillong, Jun 23: The Sirdar of Elaka Laitkroh, Bah Pailastar Kharkongor, on Monday got a unique opportunity to inaugurate the newly constructed building of Khatarshnong Laitkroh C&RD block in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and MLAs Gavin Miguel Mylliem and Matthew Beyond Kurbah.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister stated that the government’s commitment is to involve community leaders and the public at large in key development milestones.

“We believe that inclusive governance begins with participatory implementation. The inauguration of government assets by community leaders like the Sirdar signifies our vision to bring administration closer to the people and instill a sense of shared responsibility and ownership,” he said.

The newly inaugurated Block Integrated Development Complex is part of a broader initiative to upgrade infrastructure in all 46 existing and 10 newly created C&RD blocks across Meghalaya. The intervention aims to transform outdated and dilapidated rural administrative infrastructure into modern, functional, and citizen-centric facilities.

“When we assumed office in 2018, we found that many block offices were in poor condition. Since then, we have taken up a mission-mode approach to improve rural infrastructure across all districts. From repairing police stations and sub-division offices to sanctioning new DC office complexes, staff quarters, and multi-purpose halls—we are working to build a stronger foundation for grassroots governance,” the chief minister added.

Reiterating the importance of citizen participation, the chief minister said, “We want the public to not just witness development but be a part of it. By inviting local stakeholders to inaugurate welfare schemes and infrastructure projects, we are encouraging greater civic pride and accountability.”

The people-centric approach is a collaborative development model that values the role of traditional institutions, community leaders, and citizens in shaping the State’s progress.