Shillong, Oct 21: Nongtluh Mathan Maramian Development Forum has sought the government’s support for setting up a new Community and Rural Development (C&RD) Block at Umden in Ri Bhoi district.
A delegation of the forum, led by Nongpoh MLA Mayral Born Syiem, met Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong today with a plea to fast-track the proposal, calling it a “long-awaited aspiration” of the people.
Speaking to reporters, Syiem highlighted the difficulties faced by residents under the existing Umling C&RD Block, which currently covers around 224 villages. He said the large geographical area makes it challenging for village leaders, self-help groups, and communities to access government services and schemes.
“The Nongtluh Mathan Marmain area alone includes over 130 villages, and many are located more than 80 kilometers from the Umling Block headquarters,” Syiem said. “This means villagers often have to travel over 160 kilometers for basic administrative work,” he added.
He pointed out that nearly 60 per cent of these villages lie along the Assam border, where rough terrain and border sensitivities make access to government services even more difficult.
To address this, the forum has already identified a suitable site for the proposed Umden Block—a plot donated by Raid Nongtluh-Umden free of cost.
Syiem said that studies conducted in 2022 clearly demonstrated the need for a new administrative hub in the area to ensure better governance and promote inclusive rural development.
“The creation of a C&RD Block at Umden will not only make administration more accessible but also bring government schemes closer to the people and improve their overall quality of life,” the MLA said.
When asked about the government’s response, Syiem said the delegation received a positive assurance from the Deputy Chief Minister.
“I believe the government, which has fulfilled its past commitments, will take this proposal seriously. With the Deputy Chief Minister’s support, I am hopeful that the establishment of the Umden C&RD Block will soon become a reality,” he added.
