Shillong, Sep 30: The state cabinet today took a major decision to resolve a decades-old land dispute between the General Administration Department (GAD) and the Elaka of Saitsohpen in Sohra civil subdivision.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma informed that a committee headed by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong had been engaging with stakeholders for more than a year.
“Based on records and consultations, it was agreed that around 128 acres of land will be handed over to the elaka, while the remaining land will remain with the state government,” Sangma said. He expressed hope that this would bring a permanent solution to the long-pending issue.
The cabinet also cleared the Meghalaya Directorate and District Drivers’ Service Rules, 2025. The CM said the move was part of the government’s ongoing effort to streamline service rules across departments. “Having proper service rules in place is absolutely mandatory as they directly affect recruitment and promotion of employees,” he added.
The cabinet also approved standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the recently inaugurated state guesthouse at Taraghar here. The SOPs will lay down guidelines on allotment of rooms and overall management of the facility. Sangma also informed that the official holiday list for 2026 was approved in line with the 2025 list.
The Chief Minister also placed on record the cabinet’s appreciation for outgoing Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang, who retired today after 32 years of service. “Today was his last cabinet meeting. On behalf of the cabinet, government employees and the people of Meghalaya, I extend our sincere gratitude for his dedicated service,” Sangma said.
Another key development was the official launch of the e-Cabinet system, which will make cabinet meetings paperless. Sangma explained that ministers will now access agendas, records and approvals through a secure digital platform. “This will not only improve efficiency but also ensure that all past Cabinet decisions are available digitally for easy reference,” he said.
