Shillong, Dec 1: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday stressed the crucial role played by the Community & Rural Development (C&RD) department in advancing socio-economic progress across rural areas of the state.

Speaking at the inauguration of the new office building of the Directorate of Community & Rural Development at Lower Lachumiere, Shillong, Sangma said the department has consistently delivered impactful schemes and welfare initiatives that have improved the lives of people in villages.

“The C&RD department has been performing well with committed and focused dedication in delivering schemes, projects and welfare activities to rural communities, making a difference in the lives of the people,” he said.

While appreciating the completion of the new infrastructure, the Chief Minister noted that effective governance is driven not just by physical facilities but by sincerity and commitment in service.

“Though infrastructure is important for efficient and productive delivery, it is the heart and the soul with which you work that makes the difference,” he remarked.

Sangma also underlined the magnitude of responsibility carried by the department, saying that nearly 80 percent of Meghalaya’s population is directly connected to its work.

“You have a great responsibility and I urge you to continue to work with the same commitment and dedication,” he added.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by C&RD Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, Principal Secretary (C&RD) Sampath Kumar, and Director (C&RD) S.C. Sadhu, along with other officials and staff of the department.