SHILLONG, January 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 taking shape on the ground.

Speaking to the media, Sangma said several individuals have been granted mining licences and that investments have been made at multiple levels, including the deployment of equipment to ensure proper and compliant operations. “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 informed that around 17 to 20 additional licence applications are currently under process, with many more expected in the near future. He noted that while the initial phase of issuing licences was challenging, the system is now in place to responsibly expand scientific mining to more applicants.

Acknowledging the complexity of the issue, Sangma pointed to challenges involving district councils, regulatory frameworks and competing stakeholder interests. He said the state government is carefully examining all options to move forward in a balanced and mutually acceptable manner.

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

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