The Meghalaya Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday, approved several important decisions affecting healthcare, judiciary, and government service regulations in the state.

The Cabinet confirmed and formally recognized the appointments of 221 bonded nurses and bonded paramedic staff who were recruited between 2008 and 2012. These appointments had earlier been included in a list requiring re-advertisement, as they were considered ad hoc. However, after detailed discussions with the Health Department, consultations with the bonded nurses, and a thorough review of documentation, the Cabinet validated that the appointments followed the required procedures, eliminating the need for fresh recruitment.

In a significant move for mental health, the Cabinet approved the Meghalaya Mental Healthcare Rules, providing a structured framework for mental healthcare, rehabilitation, and related services across the state, which previously lacked formal regulations.

The Cabinet also approved the regularization of excess areas on government lease lands, particularly in and around Shillong. The renewal process, which earlier involved lengthy documentation and multiple government levels, has now been simplified, with most powers delegated to the Deputy Commissioner to ensure faster and more efficient decision-making.

Further, amendments to the Meghalaya Judicial Service Rules, 2006, and Meghalaya Higher Judicial Service Rules, 2015, were approved based on recommendations from the judiciary. Key changes include updates to examination procedures, direct recruitment processes, and a mandatory requirement for knowledge of a local language, either Khasi or Garo.

Finally, the Cabinet approved the Meghalaya Pharmacist Service Rules, formally adopting structured service regulations for pharmacists in the state.