Shillong, July 12: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday lauded Meghalaya’s developmental progress under Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, highlighting the state’s complete utilisation of ₹5,400 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.
Addressing a gathering in Shillong, Sitharaman said Meghalaya has effectively utilised its allocated funds for capital asset creation, unlike several other states. She commended the state’s performance in key infrastructure sectors and in centrally sponsored schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Awas Yojana, PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Swachh Bharat Mission.
The Finance Minister also noted the construction of over 540 km of roads and the expansion of optical fibre connectivity in the state since 2014. Reaffirming the Centre’s focus on the Northeast, she assured continued support for the region’s development.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said Meghalaya is progressing with a purpose-driven and result-oriented governance model. He announced that the state is nearing a $6-billion economy with a growth rate close to 15%, surpassing the national average. He also stated that funding through Externally Aided Projects has reached approximately ₹12,000 crore.
During her visit, Sitharaman launched several major infrastructure and development projects:
₹162 crore digital libraries project to establish 750 libraries in rural areas
Redevelopment of Umiam Lake into an eco-tourism hub with ₹120.81 crore funding
₹103 crore MICE and tourism project at Mawkhanu featuring a theme park and amphitheatre
₹732 crore Mawkhanu Football Stadium with a residential academy in partnership with NorthEast United FC
Working women’s hostels in Shillong, Jowai, Byrnihat, and Tura with a total investment of ₹132 crore
Office-cum-residential complex for CBIC in New Shillong with ₹256.23 crore allocation
₹100.95 crore Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs’ Northeast Campus at Mawkhanu under the PM-DevINE scheme
Sitharaman also flagged off a shipment of premium organic pineapples to Dubai under the IFAD-supported Megha-LAMP initiative, showcasing Meghalaya’s strength in organic farming.
Additionally, she announced that 92 border villages in Meghalaya have been selected for development under Phase II of the Vibrant Village Programme, aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities in border regions.
