A newly constructed building of Khatarshnong Laitkroh C&RD block was inaugurated today by Sirdar of Elaka Laitkroh, Pailastar Kharkongor in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
The newly inaugurated Block Integrated Development Complex is part of the government’s initiative to upgrade infrastructure in all 46 existing and 10 newly created C&RD blocks across Meghalaya. The intervention aims to transform outdated and dilapidated rural administrative infrastructure into modern, functional, and citizen-centric facilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said that the government’s commitment to involving community leaders and the public at large in key milestones of development.
“We believe that inclusive governance begins with participatory implementation. The inauguration of government assets by community leaders like the Sirdar signifies our vision to bring administration closer to the people and instill a sense of shared responsibility and ownership,” he said.
“When we assumed office in 2018, we found that many block offices were in poor condition. Since then, we have taken up a mission-mode approach to improve rural infrastructure across all districts. From repairing police stations and sub-division offices to sanctioning new DC office complexes, staff quarters, and multi-purpose halls—we are working to build a stronger foundation for grassroots governance,” Sangma added.
Reiterating the importance of citizen participation, the chief minister said, “We want the public to not just witness development but be a part of it. By inviting local stakeholders to inaugurate welfare schemes and infrastructure projects, we are encouraging greater civic pride and accountability.”
The people-centric approach is a collaborative development model that values the role of traditional institutions, community leaders, and citizens in shaping the State’s progress.
Following the event, Sangma visited the newly inaugurated production unit of the Shubham Charitable Association, which focuses on producing sanitary pads to promote menstrual hygiene, women’s health, and environmental cleanliness.
Later in the day, the Chief Minister led a CM Connect programme at Mawkdok Playground, where he interacted directly with citizens and listened to issues faced at the grassroots level. He reiterated that such platforms are crucial for bridging the gap between policy and public need. He urged citizens to ensure Aadhaar linkage to avail various welfare schemes.
Sohra MLA Gavin Mylliem welcomed the initiative as a meaningful way to address the concerns of the local population. Matthew B. Kurbah, MLA Mawphlang, stressed the importance of such interactive sessions and urged the Chief Minister to organise similar programmes in Mawphlang Block as well.
During the community interaction, people raised a wide range of issues. In healthcare, villagers requested the setting up of Sub-Centres and Mini PHCs in remote areas, especially where road connectivity is poor. On education, concerns were raised about teacher shortages in certain schools. In terms of electricity, several areas in the KhatarShnong regions were reported to have connectivity issues due to difficult terrain. Road infrastructure, particularly in agricultural zones, was highlighted as an ongoing challenge.
Speakers also appreciated the visible improvements in the tourism sector and welcomed the Chief Minister’s proposal to introduce a dedicated tourism police cadre. In the water supply sector, villagers acknowledged government efforts but asked for further improvement in water distribution systems in rural homes, schools, and hospitals. On agriculture, a proposal was submitted for establishing ropeways in villages like Phong to help transport produce more efficiently.
The Chief Minister assured that all issues raised would be taken up seriously in coordination with the concerned departments. He also directed the Health Department to initiate the process of identifying locations suitable for setting up health sub-centres in hard-to-reach areas. Officers from various government departments were present to answer queries from the public and provide on-the-spot clarifications.
Cheques were also distributed to various Self Help Groups and community-based organisations to support rural development initiatives.
The Chief Minister also made a field visit to Swer village, where he inspected the on-going Swer-Mawrah Water Supply Scheme, including the planned construction of the approach road. He also stopped at the nearby Ramakrishna Mission School, where he interacted with the school administration to understand their challenges and extended support for resolving key issues.
