Meghalaya

The Meghalaya Cabinet on Monday approved the Meghalaya Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, 2026, introducing financial incentives and other benefits to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles across the state. Briefing the media after the Cabinet meeting, Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak said that every individual purchasing an electric vehicle will receive an incentive of ₹25,000. The government has also decided to waive registration fees for all electric vehicles under the new policy. The initiative aims to promote cleaner and more sustainable transportation, reduce dependence on conventional fuel-powered vehicles, and support environmentally friendly mobility solutions in the state. Apart from the EV policy, the Cabinet approved the extension of B.M. War, former Chief Engineer...

An awareness programme on the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 was organised by the Department of Urban Affairs in Williamnagar on Thursday to sensitise stakeholders on the effective implementation of the new regulations and promote responsible waste management practices across urban local bodies and centres. Addressing the programme, Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak highlighted the importance of proper waste management in ensuring sustainable urban development and safeguarding public health. He urged citizens and stakeholders to actively participate in maintaining cleaner surroundings and adopting environmentally responsible practices. The minister also spoke about ongoing initiatives, including efforts to operationalise the biomedical waste incinerator, protect the Simsang Riv...

Meghalaya's young singer Kitkupar Nongsiej received a warm welcome on his return from the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2026 in Las Vegas, USA, after bringing home three gold and two bronze medals while representing India on the international stage. Competing in the 18–24 years Vocalist category, Nongsiej secured gold medals in the Jazz and Pop categories, another gold for finishing in the Top 5, and bronze medals in the Original Work and Gospel categories. Speaking to the media on Saturday, Nongsiej expressed gratitude to God, his supporters and the Meghalaya government for standing by him throughout his journey. He also thanked Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for his encouragement. Reflecting on his achievement, he said, "Representing India at an international stage ...

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on July 24 said those responsible for the alleged examination paper leaks must be identified and held accountable, while also expressing concern over the handling of student protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Speaking to reporters in Manipur's Imphal, Sangma said a thorough investigation into the examination irregularities was necessary to ensure justice. "What has happened in terms of the examinations or the overall leakage of the paper, a proper investigation should be done to ensure that action is taken against those responsible," he said. The Meghalaya Chief Minister also acknowledged the public anger over the manner in which the issue and the subsequent protests were handled. "There is a lot of anger regarding the way it was ...

The Centre has approved handing over the charge of Vice-Chancellor of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) to Prof Saroj Kanta Barik, the second senior-most professor at the university's Department of Botany, after the tenure of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor ends on July 26. According to an order issued by the Ministry of Education on July 22, the President of India, in her capacity as the Visitor of NEHU, approved the proposal for Barik to assume charge until a new vice-chancellor takes office. The order, addressed to the NEHU Registrar, states that Barik will take over the responsibilities of the vice-chancellor following the expiry of Shukla's term, ensuring continuity in the university's administration while the appointment process for a regular vice-chancellor is completed. ...

Meghalaya's premium pineapples have entered the quick-commerce market in Bengaluru, expanding the state's reach to urban consumers through online grocery delivery services. The produce is being sourced directly from the Jirang Organic Farmer Producer Company and air-freighted to Bengaluru, a move the state government said is aimed at improving market access for farmers and ensuring better prices for their produce. The pineapples are known for their high Brix value, sweetness and aroma. Officials said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen direct market linkages for farmers and reduce reliance on traditional supply chains. The development comes after the fourth Meghalaya Pineapple Festival at Dilli Haat in New Delhi, where the government said around 30 metric tonn...

The Government of Meghalaya and the State Bank of India (SBI) on Thursday signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the State Government Salary Package (SGSP), introducing enhanced banking and financial benefits for government employees. Replacing the 2012 agreement, the revised package offers higher insurance coverage, concessional loan facilities, upgraded digital banking services, family banking benefits and other value-added financial services for both existing SGSP account holders and newly recruited employees. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who attended the signing ceremony, said the revised partnership reflects the Government's commitment to improving employee welfare by providing better financial products and modern banking solutions. As of June 30, 2026, m...

The National People’s Party (NPP) has vehemently cricitised the opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) for allegedly disapproving development works by the NPP-led government. Responding to VPP allegations regarding his Jowai constituency, Cabinet Minister Wailadmiki Shylla urged the voters not to believe in any criticism by VPP which “lacked unity” within the party. Shylla, during his address at an election campaign for NPP Shillong Lok Sabha bypoll candidate Dr DRL Nonglait at Ummulong in West Jaintia Hills, said VPP had undermined traditional institutions by scrapping provisions that required headmen to certify land in villages. “Isn’t this taking away the power of our headmen?” he asked. Targeting the VPP’s four MLAs, Shylla said the party had failed to present a united...

The Supreme Court on July 23 cancelled the bail granted to Sonam Raghuvanshi, who is accused of murdering her husband, Raja Raghuvanshi, during their honeymoon in Meghalaya in 2025. A bench comprising Justices M M Sundresh and P B Varale allowed the Meghalaya government's plea challenging the bail order and directed Sonam to surrender before the police within three weeks. The apex court also observed that if the trial does not commence and conclude within six months, Sonam will be free to file a fresh bail application. Sonam, a resident of Indore in Madhya Pradesh, was arrested in June 2025 in connection with the murder of her husband, businessman Raja Raghuvanshi. The couple had gone missing after travelling to Sohra in Meghalaya on May 23, 2025, for their honeymoon. Raja's b...