Shillong, Feb 28: Meghalaya Governor C H Vijayashankar reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to transforming Meghalaya into a $10 billion economy by 2028. Speaking at the inaugural session of the state assembly’s budget session, he called for collective efforts to drive economic and social development.
“My government is dedicated to the holistic development of Meghalaya, showcasing its rich culture, and enhancing services for citizens. Key areas such as infrastructure, power, investment, IT, tourism, and agriculture will be instrumental in economic growth, while healthcare, education, employment, and social security will ensure the welfare of our people,” he stated.
Major Infrastructure and Investment Projects
The governor highlighted several large-scale projects funded by multilateral agencies, including the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and the New Development Bank. These projects, covering roads, power, agriculture, and tourism, receive 72% funding from the Centre and the rest from the state government.Under the PM DeVINE programme, the state has secured funding of over ₹395 crore for:
- Road construction in New Shillong City
- An IT park at Tura
- A skywalk and tourist hub at Dympep
- A passenger ropeway at Shillong Peak
Job Reservation and IT Expansion
To ensure local employment opportunities, the government has mandated that 90% of non-managerial jobs in new industries be reserved for local residents. The administration is also collaborating with the Department of Telecommunications to expand internet connectivity, covering 6,346 villages with mobile networks and 6,272 villages with broadband services. Investments in the IT sector aim to generate 15,000 jobs over the next five years.Welfare and Rural Development
The governor highlighted the success of employment schemes, stating that under MGNREGA, Meghalaya has generated 3.5 crore person-days of employment annually over the past five years, benefitting over 5 lakh households. The Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (Grameen) has sanctioned 1.86 lakh houses this financial year.Under the National Rural Livelihood Mission, 51,674 self-help groups with over 1.17 lakh 'Lakhpati Didis' have been mobilized, covering 5 lakh households. The Jal Jeevan Mission has connected 81% of households to tap water, surpassing the national average, with 4,024 villages achieving 'Har Ghar Jal' status.
Education, Sports, and Aviation Expansion
The state has upgraded over 2,000 schools and recently inaugurated the Captain Williamson Sangma State University, the first UGC-recognized state university in Meghalaya, where students are exempt from CUET for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.Meghalaya’s sporting achievements were also recognized, with five athletes winning medals at the 38th National Games. The revival of the Meghalaya Games, with over 3,500 athletes competing in 29 disciplines, has been a major success, supported by scholarships worth ₹3.5 crore.
To enhance air connectivity, plans for Shillong Airport expansion are underway. The government is coordinating with the Ministry of Defence and Airports Authority of India to acquire land for a longer runway to accommodate larger aircraft.
Transition to Scientific Mining
The governor also addressed Meghalaya’s efforts to transition towards scientific mining, with three companies receiving final approval from the Ministry of Coal to begin operations. An additional 20 applications are under review at an advanced approval stage.With a clear roadmap for economic expansion, infrastructure growth, and social welfare, Meghalaya is setting a strong foundation for achieving its ambitious target of a $10 billion economy by 2028.
