In a significant push for development in the northeastern state, the North Eastern Council (NEC) has sanctioned a substantial financial package for Meghalaya. The council has released Rs 13.45 crore to fund a diverse array of projects currently under implementation across the state.
Key Infrastructure and Tourism Projects Funded
The allocated funds will directly support several high-impact initiatives. A major focus is on enhancing tourism, with money earmarked for constructing tourism infrastructure at Laitlyngkot (Lamlyer) in the East Khasi Hills district. Furthermore, a cultural complex for Seng Khasi Ri Raid Laban will be developed at Lum Shat Sngi on Kenches Trace in Shillong.
To bolster local commerce, the NEC has approved funds for constructing an RCC G+4 commercial building at the Iewdak Laban Municipal Market. This facility is specifically designed for the sale of agriculture, horticulture, handicraft, piggery, and floriculture products, providing a dedicated space for local producers.
School Buildings, Civic Amenities, and Market Beautification
The council's support extends to the education sector and urban utility upgrades. The funding covers the construction of school buildings for Rama Krishna Mission Schools in seven locations: Laidiengsai, Mawrah, Laitryngew, Wahlong, Pynursla, Pomsohmen, and Nongkynrih.
Critical civic works are also included, such as the re-alignment of pipelines, provision of utility ducts, and the installation of public toilets at five different locations. For improved sanitation, the project includes the procurement of waste management vehicles and bins.
A significant portion of the work is dedicated to the beautification of the main approach road to the iconic Iewduh market. This project involves enhanced lighting, painting, and the replacement of supply lines to improve the overall aesthetics and functionality of the area.
Enhanced Connectivity and Broader Regional Support
Beyond the state-specific allocation, the NEC has also released Rs 3 crore under the NESIDS (Roads) scheme for crucial works on the Shillong-Umroi Airport road. This project is anticipated to significantly strengthen regional connectivity, directly benefiting approximately 10 villages with a combined population of around 7,287 people.
The council's financial disbursement for the month was not limited to Meghalaya. It also distributed a substantial Rs 26.47 crore to various regional and other agencies across the northeast. This wider funding supports initiatives by universities, research institutions, and cultural organisations.
Major interventions from this broader funding include:
- Establishment of kiwi orchards and banana tissue culture facilities.
- Sponsorship for education of 91 boarder scholars and 622 day scholars.
- GI registration for 166 local crops and commodities.
- Setting up of pig breeding units (Phase-III) and multi-agriculture projects for fishery and piggery.
- Promotion of livelihoods based on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAP).
- Advanced research in 5G use-case development and socio-ecological analysis of Sone Beel for sustainable management.
This comprehensive funding initiative by the NEC underscores a committed push towards holistic development, targeting economic growth, infrastructure improvement, and quality of life enhancements in Meghalaya and the wider northeastern region.
