Shillong, Nov 7: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday held a CM Connect programme at Amjong village, Mawhati, to listen to concerns of the Lalung area.
Representatives of the Lalung (Tiwa) community raised the long-pending demand for recognition of tribal status and pointed out that the community is still recorded as ‘unidentified’ in the Census. The Chief Minister said the government would look into the matter.
Residents also highlighted irregular electricity supply in Tiwa Umsiang area, lack of water under Jal Jeevan Mission despite infrastructure being in place, lack of banking outlets with nearest banks in Byrnihat or Nongpoh, and sought expansion of the sub-centre serving 13 villages or its upgradation to a Primary Health Centre.
On education, people sought more secondary schools, skill development and placement support for youth, and a proper playground. The Meghalaya State Skill Development Society will map skills and interests of youth and send training agencies accordingly.
On livelihoods, people sought a weaving centre for the area known for silkworm rearing and weaving, and revival of the CM-ASSURE scheme to ensure fair prices for broom cultivation. The Sericulture Department was asked to prepare a proposal under CM Elevate.
On roads, the Chief Minister said one package will be provided by the state on prioritisation for Amdibigat-Lumpoi and Margorot-Tiampui roads, as population criteria under PMGSY prevent new roads. People also sought replacement of a hanging bridge with a road.
Sangma said CM Connect was conceived to bring the government closer to people so that ground concerns can be heard directly and resolved through departments concerned.
The programme also saw distribution of beneficiary scheme kits and benefits, followed by a cultural programme.
