Shillong, Sep 11: The Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA) has secured funding of Rs 224 crore over the past three years, with the largest share of Rs 182.30 crore allocated in the current financial year 2024-25 for implementing innovative and cross-sectoral projects across the state.
Replying to a question raised by VPP MLA Adelbert Nongrum, in the Assembly today, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said the MBDA received Rs 24 crore in 2023-24 and Rs 17.70 crore in 2022-23.
He said the authority is subjected to auditing by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), ensuring transparency and accountability in its functioning.
The Chief Minister clarified the difference between the MBDA, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and a society established in 2012, and the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency, a not-for-profit organization formed under Section 8 of the Companies Act.
He said that all 729 employees currently serving under the authority are locals, and the recruitment process is transparent and based on professional HR policies.
In response to a query from Adelbert Nongrum, the Chief Minister stated that projects specific to departments are continuing, with the state’s budget increasing from Rs 9,000 crore to Rs 30,000 crore. He said that this growth indicates the departments’ capability, and the use of MBDA is primarily for coordination purposes.
In reply to a separate query by VPP legislator Heavingstone Kharpran from Mawryngkneng, Sangma informed that projects aimed at protecting catchment areas for Shillong and Tura water supply are currently in progress.
