Shillong, Nov 4: After being unceremoniously shunted out from the cabinet, East Shillong MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh has been mollified somewhat by being appointed as adviser to the state government today.
Such political appointments are seen by many as a waste of money. Lyngdoh’s appointment is a top tier one and comes with perks and facilities under Category A.
Meanwhile, the state government, through the Governor, also “de-notified” the appointment of DD Lapang as an adviser to the government. Lapang had died in September and had resigned as adviser in October 2024.
Political appointees under Category A get Rs 10,000 per month as honorarium. They also get an allotted car with driver or cost of the requisitioned or hired conveyance and driver at the rate of Rs 400 per day is allotted. Besides, they also get TA/DA subject to a maximum of Rs 15,000 per month, house rent allowance of Rs 10,000 per month, electrical energy allowance of Rs 1,000 per month and hospitality charges of Rs 2,000 per month.
Other benefits include 200 liters of petrol per month, engine oil is 4 liters per month and medical benefit is free, one telephone at the residence and another at office is also allotted. As far as secretarial assistance is concerned, one each SA, LDA or typist, driver and an additional driver are allotted.
