Meghalaya

Meghalaya’s water security efforts received a significant boost as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) inked a $50 million loan agreement with the Government of India to construct water harvesting systems across the state. The project, spanning 12 districts, will establish 532 water storage facilities and safeguard over 3,000 hectares of farmland through advanced irrigation systems. Designed to capture monsoon rains and curb flash floods, the initiative ensures year-round water availability, aligning with Meghalaya’s 2019 water policy emphasizing sustainable management and community participation. “This project integrates climate adaptation into water security planning, supporting agriculture, fisheries, and livelihoods,” said Mio Oka, ADB India Resident Mission Country Director. Notable ...

Umiam Lake, a serene and picturesque destination just 15 kilometers from Shillong, is set to undergo a major transformation into a premier eco-tourism hub. The Government of India has approved a Rs 99.27 crore project aimed at enhancing the lake's appeal, turning it into a must-visit spot for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and tourists alike. Known for its tranquil beauty, Umiam Lake already attracts visitors with activities such as kayaking, speed boating, trekking, and fishing. The development plan will introduce a range of new features, including a Craft Village, Food Court, and other recreational spaces. The goal is to offer immersive cultural and entertainment experiences, making Umiam a top eco-tourism destination in India. In addition, four public-private partnership (PPP)...

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma emphasized the success of the CM-Connect programme in addressing citizens' concerns during an outreach event in Nongstoin, West Khasi Hills, on December 3. Launched in February, CM-Connect enables residents to voice grievances, ask questions, and offer suggestions directly to the government. The initiative uses online, offline, and IVS platforms, including WhatsApp, ensuring accessibility. “This participatory approach ensures citizens are heard, and their concerns are addressed effectively,” Sangma stated. During the event, Sangma announced a ₹10 crore allocation for an artificial turf playground in Mawthungkper village to meet local demands. He also encouraged communities to collaborate with the government on development projects and addressed...

Students of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Meghalaya have announced the resumption of classes starting today, following a month-long suspension of physical sessions due to protests. Despite this, demonstrations demanding the removal of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla will continue. Led by the NEHU Students' Union (NEHUSU) and Khasi Students' Union (KSU – NEHU Unit), students plan to hold daily two-hour sit-ins until their demands are met. NEHUSU General Secretary Toniho Kharsati voiced concerns over academic delays, emphasizing the impact on students' futures. The protesting groups have expressed strong opposition to Prof. Shukla’s return, vowing to resist his entry into the university. Meanwhile, Vice-Chancellor in-charge Prof. Nirmalemdu Saha confirmed that Prof....

A two-year-old Public Interest Litigation on the purported abuse of authority by a senior police official in the purchase of vehicles was resolved by the Meghalaya High Court. The order was made on December 2 by the division bench of Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh. In 2022, Patricia Mukhim and Riewad Vicharwant Warjri filed a Public Interest Litigation alleging that an Assistant Inspector General of Police improperly purchased and mishandled about 29 automobiles intended for the police force. Since it was filed, the case has advanced significantly. Only two witnesses were unavailable, according to Advocate General A Kumar, who told the court that 41 of the 43 prosecution witnesses had been questioned throughout the departmental investigation. After being first arre...

The demand for Central security by Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla, Vice-Chancellor of Meghalaya's North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), has sparked local outrage, with the Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) dismissing it as unfounded and potentially misuse of power. Shukla, who requested Central Armed Forces for his "safe return" to the campus on December 2, argued that the security measures provided by the Meghalaya State Government were inadequate for someone of his stature. In response, HITO criticized the VC’s demand in a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that it lacked a valid foundation. The pressure group accused Shukla of disrespecting local traditions, particularly pointing to his defiance of a directive from the Mawlai Town Dorbar, a body that re...

The Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has significantly bolstered its political presence by inducting over 500 new members from various political factions, including the National People's Party (NPP), United Democratic Party (UDP), and Voice of the People Party (VPP). This strategic move aims to enhance the party’s organizational strength ahead of upcoming elections. The induction ceremony, held at Congress Bhawan in Shillong, was attended by key party officials, including MLA Ronnie V Lyngdoh, who underscored the importance of these new members in rejuvenating the party’s structure. He emphasized that their inclusion would bring fresh perspectives and energy to the Congress fold. Vice President MDC PN Syiem further highlighted the need for a balanced team, combining youthful...

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated the first phase of the Meghalaya Biological Park, also known as the Meghalaya State Zoo, at Umtrew in Ri Bhoi District on November 27. The project, initiated in 2001, marks a significant step in the state’s conservation efforts. Speaking at the event, Sangma emphasized the park’s dual purpose as a recreational space and a hub for fostering environmental awareness, particularly among the youth. He described the park as a sanctuary for rescued and rehabilitated animals, contributing to ecological balance. The 72-hectare facility is still under development, with features like ticket counters, cafeterias, and souvenir shops yet to be completed. Animals from Shillong’s Lady Hydari Park have already been relocated to enclosures at Umtrew. ...

On November 27, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma officially opened the first phase of the Meghalaya State Zoo, also known as the Meghalaya Biological Park, near Umtrew, Ri Bhoi District. In 2001, 24 years ago, the project got underway. Sangma emphasized the government's dedication to developing the state during the inauguration, however he also noted that a number of features, including ticketing counters, cafeterias, gift shops, and enclosures, are still being developed. According to the chief minister of Meghalaya, the park in the Ri Bhoi district would be used not just as a place of entertainment and leisure but also as a forum for interaction, especially to encourage young people to have empathy and responsibility for the environment and animals. In order to support co...