SHILLONG, Jan 16, 2026: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday said the state has made significant progress in promoting scientific and regulated mining, with licences already issued and investments flowing into the sector to ensure compliance and sustainability.

Speaking to the media, Sangma informed that several individuals have been granted mining licences and that operations have begun at different levels. “Mining at different levels has started. We have flagged off scientifically managed operations, and necessary equipment is being put in place to ensure compliance with regulations,” he said.

The chief minister added that around 17 to 20 more licence applications are currently under process, with many more expected in the coming months. He noted that although the initial phase of granting licences posed challenges, the required systems are now in place to expand mining activities in a responsible manner.

Acknowledging the complexity of the mining issue in Meghalaya, Sangma cited challenges involving district councils, regulatory frameworks and differing stakeholder interests. He said the state government is carefully examining all possible approaches to move forward in a balanced and mutually acceptable way.

Sangma also confirmed that the Meghalaya government has approached the Government of India on procedural aspects related to mining and is awaiting further guidance to streamline and strengthen the process.

“Scientific mining in Meghalaya is now set to expand responsibly with the systems and procedures we have established,” the chief minister said.