Shillong, Feb 18: During the 2026 Budget Session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister addressed a proposal tabled by Bah Paul Lyngdoh, MLA from 18–West Shillong, to carve out the Shillong Agglomerate from East Khasi Hills District and constitute it as a separate district.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the importance of the proposal, emphasizing its relevance for administrative convenience, efficient governance, and improved public service delivery in the State capital, which is witnessing rapid urban expansion.
Explaining the concept of an Urban Agglomeration (UA) as defined by the Census of India 2011, the Chief Minister noted that a UA consists of a core statutory town along with adjoining outgrowths or contiguous towns, forming a continuous and functionally integrated urban area. He highlighted that Shillong’s Urban Agglomeration includes Shillong Municipal Board, Shillong Cantonment Board, and 10 census towns, along with 54 villages spanning East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi Districts.
The Chief Minister referred to the Shillong Master Plan (2011–2041), which guides long-term urban development, including population growth projections and infrastructure planning. He noted the shift of population from the municipal area to surrounding towns and villages and stressed the need for coordinated planning among government agencies and traditional institutions.
On the criteria for creating a new district, the Chief Minister explained that factors such as area, population, distance from district headquarters, availability of education and health services, economic conditions, public convenience, communication, and funding are considered. Proposals must be examined by a committee headed by the Chief Secretary with senior officials from key departments.
The Chief Minister stated that the government will carefully scrutinize the proposal to ensure informed decisions for better governance and citizen-centric administration. He also appreciated Bah Paul Lyngdoh for initiating the discussion, calling it an opportunity for constructive deliberation on strengthening administrative efficiency in Shillong.
