Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today addressed various concerns of the people at CM – Connect outreach held in Nongstoiñ, West Khasi Hills.
The block level interactive program conducted for villages under Nongstoin Block was attended by heads and representatives of different departments and representatives from villages.
Locals and representatives raised various concerns and sought the chief minister’s intervention.
The issues flagged by the people were roads and bridges, health centres, tourism infrastructure development, sports infrastructure, availability of banks, enhancement of sanctions for flagships schemes, upgradation of schools, veterinary services, etc.
Addressing concerns about health facilities, the chief minister noted that the government is fortifying existing health centres to maximise their capacity. He also stated that the government will provide infrastructure grants to non-profit organisations to enhance their existing healthcare facilities.
He further announced that the government will upgrade the Nongstoiñ Civil Hospital at the earliest.
On sports infrastructure, the chief minister informed that the government is investing over Rs 1000 crore in enhancing sports infrastructure across Meghalaya and guaranteed that the government will work in tandem with the community to establish sports infrastructure in rural areas.
Responding to the request for interest subvention for SHGs, he gave an assurance that he will take up the matter with the Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
In response to the request on construction of village roads, the chief minister informed that a few road projects will also be initiated through the CM Rural Connect program.
Addressing the gathering, he said that CM Connect is an opportunity for the government to listen and resolve the issues of the people. He also encouraged the MLAs, Department Heads to connect with the people at their level.
“The platform (online, offline and IVS) is an initiative for the citizens to directly reach out to the government to air concerns, raise queries and provide suggestions. Through this platform, the government ensure participatory approach, by listening and responding with appropriate remedies,” the chief minister said.
During the programme, the chief minister also announced the construction of Maweit to Nongjri road. The sanction for which is expected in next three months. “This is an opportunity to open our borders for international trade especially for this region through this major road”, he said.
The CM Connect held in Nongstoiñ today is the fifth such program conducted in the state and chief minister said that he will continue the momentum to bring governance closer to the people.
Nongstoiñ MLA Gabriel Wahlang, Mawshynrut MLA Methodious Dkhar, Rambrai Jyngam MLA R.G. Momin were also present at the programme.
During the event, financial assistance in the form of ‘Community Funds’ was given to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as part of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) under the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihood Society (MSRLS); M-Tabs were also distributed to students, showcasing the administration’s focus on empowering youth and women.
