Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma revealed that projects exceeding Rs 5,000 crore are underway in South Garo Hills district to boost infrastructure and livelihood opportunities. Speaking at the “Our Magnificent Vision 2032 Meghalaya” event, Sangma emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, especially in rural areas. Over the past eight years, the state has focused on enhancing infrastructure, public services, and creating job prospects.
Significant investments have been channeled into various sectors in South Garo Hills, including Rs 354 crore in public health engineering, Rs 235 crore in education, and Rs 90 crore for tourism development. Infrastructure projects valued at around Rs 2,144 crore have also been initiated in the district to enhance connectivity and public amenities. Sangma highlighted the promotion of community-based tourism through financial aid for homestay projects, with beneficiaries in the district receiving Rs 3.16 crore for this purpose.
Acknowledging the transformation of South Garo Hills from a neglected to a preferred district, Sangma reiterated the government’s dedication to ensuring tangible benefits for local communities. He further announced the upcoming tendering stage for the Rs 140-crore Greater Baghmara Water Supply Scheme Phase II sanctioned by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER). During the event, Sangma distributed incentives under the Green Meghalaya and FOCUS+ schemes, providing financial support to beneficiaries and encouraging collective marketing among farmers.
Officials highlighted the Green Meghalaya program’s success in conserving forest ecosystems, covering approximately 54,000 hectares to date and aiming for an additional 50,000 hectares in the future. The FOCUS+ initiative, offering Rs 5,000 per household and promoting producer groups, aims to enhance farmers’ marketing capabilities and bargaining power.
