Shillong, Apr 10: The Estimates Committee of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly has expressed concern over the absence of Anganwadi centres in about 1,600 villages in the state.
The committee has directed the Social Welfare Department to explore avenues for establishing these essential facilities, including seeking support from the central government, despite challenges related to existing population and household guidelines.
This emerged from a two-day review meeting which concluded today.
The review meeting chaired by Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem reviewed works carried out by the Education, Public Works Department (PWD), Public Health Engineering (PHE), Social Welfare, Home (Police), and Information Technology & Communication.
Syiem told reporters that the detailed report and recommendations of the committee will be placed on the table of the House.
He said discussions were on the implementation and progress of infrastructure projects, including construction works at Model Degree Colleges in Rongjeng and Patharkhmah, Kiang Nangbah College, and various polytechnics across the state.
The committee reviewed ongoing and planned projects under PWD (Buildings), including renovation and upgradation works of Meghalaya House and other infrastructure initiatives within and outside the state.
On the progress of the Greater Ampati Water Supply Scheme and its associated components the committee directed the department to expedite completion of the project at the earliest.
Discussions also focused on infrastructure development within the department with emphasis laid on timely completion of projects in accordance with budgetary provisions of the previous financial year.
The committee appreciated the completion of the IT Park at Umsawli and expressed optimism that it will contribute to addressing unemployment.
The status of last-mile connectivity for high-speed internet was also reviewed, with the initiative reported to be in its final stages. Certain areas, including parts of Tura, are expected to be operational soon.
Syiem underscored that the expansion of high-speed internet connectivity is expected to significantly transform the state’s future.
He further clarified that the role of the Estimates Committee is not to assign blame, but to ensure that budgetary provisions approved by the House are effectively implemented and that their intended benefits reach the public.
