Shillong, April 16: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday announced that the Cabinet has approved the Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance, 2026, granting official language status to Khasi and Garo alongside English. The ordinance will repeal the Meghalaya State Language Act, 2005 and marks a significant step toward preserving and promoting the state’s indigenous languages.

Sangma said necessary amendments will be made to laws such as the Meghalaya State Legislature (Continuance of English Language) Act, 1980 to enable legislators to speak and participate in Assembly debates in Khasi and Garo, in addition to English. He added that the decision would also pave the way for the gradual introduction of these languages in state examinations.

While noting that implementation would take time as frameworks and systems need to be established, Sangma emphasized that granting official status at the state level strengthens the case for including Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. The move follows a resolution adopted by the Assembly seeking such inclusion.

In another key decision, the Cabinet approved the establishment of the Greater Shillong Waste Management Agency, which will be registered as a society. Sangma explained that rapid urban growth has led to fragmented waste collection handled by multiple agencies, resulting in inefficiencies. The new agency will streamline operations across the Greater Shillong Planning Area, covering approximately 288.5 square kilometres, to improve coordination and efficiency in waste management.

“These steps reflect the government’s commitment to both cultural preservation and urban development,” Sangma said, highlighting the dual focus on indigenous identity and modern infrastructure.