Meghalaya

The Meghalaya government has temporarily halted the issuance of licences for opening liquor retail shops in Shillong. Disclosing this on Tuesday, Excise Minister Kyrmen Shylla said the government wants to monitor and study the liquor business. There are several wine shops, located close to educational institutions and places of worship. “We want to see where these IMFL retail shops are located. We may have to increase their number,” he said. Stating that a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the local headman is the most important prerequisite for opening a liquor outlet, Shylla said licences are issued only after an applicant has obtained an NOC. He said the government is required to follow procedures. The minister assured that the government will work out a mechanism to ensure tha...

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has expressed disappointment over former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh referencing his late father, PA Sangma, in a political debate, calling it "unfortunate" and urging collective efforts to restore peace in Manipur. In response to Biren Singh’s remarks on X (formerly Twitter), Conrad Sangma wrote, "It's unfortunate that @NBirenSingh ji has dragged the name of (L) Shri P.A. Sangma ji. Sangma ji has always fought for the people of the North East, was a strong advocate for different issues and rights of the people of the North East." Biren Singh had earlier questioned Conrad Sangma’s awareness of security measures in Manipur, while also claiming that PA Sangma once advocated for dividing the Northeast along ethnic lines, a stance he called "...

Seven pressure groups will revive the Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) to collectively address issues affecting the state. The decision was taken at a meeting of the groups which are from different parts of the state. The alliance, which will be led by Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), includes Achik Progressive Approach, Garoland State Movement Committee, United Achik Social Economic Justice Forum, Jaintia Students’ Movement, Confederation of Ri-Bhoi People and Jaintia National Council. After the meeting, held at the ICSSR-NERC Guest House in NEHU, was over, HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem told reporters the decision to revive CoMSO was made to unify efforts for tackling key regional issues. He said the groups agreed to hold the second meeting at Tura soon in c...

In a significant development, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) has found deposits of bauxite, lithium and additional limestones in different parts of Meghalaya which can enrich the hill state when mined. The recent reconnaissance surveys have found the presence of bauxite in the Garo Hills region, with further deposits unearthed in the West Khasi Hills and East Khasi Hills region, according to ST Narahari, Director of GSI Training and Capacity Building Division for the state unit of Meghalaya. In the Rymrai area of West Khasi Hills, GSI has inferred substantial moderate quality bauxite resources, while significant reserves were found in another site at a village in East Khasi Hills. The survey also shed light on favourable limestone deposits, especially high-grade reserves in Lithi...

The A'chik State Peoples' Front (ASPF) intensified its demand for Tura to be declared the Winter Capital of Meghalaya by organizing its 5th public meeting at Salbari Rabukong (Pedaldoba) in West Garo Hills on Saturday. The gathering saw the participation of village leaders (Nokmas/Sorders) from over 50 villages, alongside representatives from various non- governmental organizations (NGOs). Key attendees included Malsin Marak, Secretary of the AYWO A'chotchonggre Regional Unit; Witjess Marak from the Constitutional Rights Forum (CRF); and Withing Marak, Secretary of the All-Garo Hills Merchant Association (AGHMA) Raksamgre Unit. Their presence further solidified the movement's growing support.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has challenged the youth to harness science and technology for solving societal issues, emphasizing innovation and entrepreneurship as key drivers of progress. Speaking at the National Science Day 2025 celebration and the Digital Planetarium inauguration at NEHU Tura campus, Sangma highlighted the need to cultivate young minds to address real-world problems. "Pose a challenge to our youth to come up with solutions to different problems," he urged, citing irrigation challenges as an area where sensor-based and solar-powered technologies could revolutionize farming. The Chief Minister proposed greater incentives for students in science and mathematics, including high-value competitions to encourage innovation. "If a young mind wants to develop an...

Railways may not be a closed chapter in Meghalaya just yet, as the state government has expressed the need to expand the scope for debate with both pro and anti-railway groups, including those who have yet to take a stance on the issue. “In the recent Cabinet meeting, there was an informal discussion where a few members felt that we should broaden the debate and not shut down the discussion,” said Cabinet Minister and MDA spokesperson, Paul Lyngdoh. He added, “Given that opinions on railways vary across districts, the chief minister has assured that he will initiate consultations with all stakeholders. This includes those who oppose railways, those who support them, and those who have yet to take a stand.” Lyngdoh emphasised the importance of a balanced approach. “We need to adopt a...

Meghalaya’s Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival has won the Best Festival Destination award at the India Today Tourism Awards, further cementing its reputation as one of India’s premier cultural events. Union Minister for Tourism & Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presented the award to Miuke Fuje D Sangma from the Tourist Information Centre, who represented Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh at the ceremony in New Delhi. Held every November, the festival transforms Shillong into a mesmerizing spectacle of pink and white cherry blossoms. Beyond its scenic charm, the event attracts thousands of visitors with its vibrant mix of music, fashion, art, and local cuisine. The 2024 edition featured a star-studded musical lineup, including international sensations like Akon, Boney M...