The Meghalaya cabinet, led by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, has approved an amendment to Rule 375 of the Assam Excise Rule, 1945, as adapted and amended by the state, to levy a special duty on Bottle in Origin (BIO) in a bid to augment state revenue.
Revision of Import Pass Fee on Extra Neutral Alcohol
Addressing the media after the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma stated that the amendment pertains to the revision of the import pass fee on Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA) brought in from outside the state. The fee, which was previously Rs 25 per bulk litre, has now been increased to Rs 30 per bulk litre. This move is expected to generate additional revenue for the state exchequer.
Amendment to Meghalaya Building Bye Laws
The cabinet also cleared an amendment to the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws, 2021, under the Special Projects category. The amendment lowers the eligibility thresholds to widen participation and encourage planned large-scale urban development. Earlier, projects such as hotels, public institutions, healthcare facilities, shopping malls, multiplexes, ICT/BPO centres, and educational institutions required a minimum plot size of 50,000 sq. ft. and a built-up area of 20,000 sq. ft. The amendment reduces the minimum plot size to 37,500 sq. ft. and the built-up area to 15,000 sq. ft.
Chief Minister Sangma explained that this change will enable more landowners to qualify under the Special Projects category, thereby encouraging multi-storey developments, boosting investment, generating employment, and supporting more efficient use of urban land. The relaxation is expected to stimulate construction activity and contribute to the state's economic growth.
Land Acquisition for Land Banks
The cabinet further approved two proposals to purchase land for land banks at Rongalgre in East Garo Hills District and in North Garo Hills District. These land banks are being developed to support future infrastructure projects of the government and to facilitate planned development initiatives in the respective districts. The acquisition of land will help in systematic urban planning and ensure the availability of land for public purposes.
The decisions taken by the cabinet reflect the state government's focus on revenue generation, urban development, and infrastructure planning. The increased excise duty on alcohol is expected to provide a steady stream of funds, while the relaxed building norms aim to attract investment and promote orderly growth in urban areas. The land bank initiative underscores the government's commitment to planned development and efficient use of resources.
