Charles Pyngrope, the Opposition TMC chief and MLA from Nongthymmai, expressed serious concerns about substance abuse among youths in Meghalaya, asserting that it could significantly hinder the state’s economic growth. During a debate on the Governor’s Address, he characterized the drug crisis in both urban and rural settings as a grave threat to the demographic dividend that the state could potentially harness. Pyngrope emphasized the need for establishing well-equipped de-addiction centres throughout all districts and subdivisions to facilitate accessible rehabilitation for affected youths.
He raised critical questions regarding whether Meghalaya’s increasing GDP is genuinely reflecting improvements in the quality of life for its residents. Pyngrope referenced a study by the Meghalaya Climate Change Centre, which revealed that numerous households across various blocks are still reliant on modest monthly incomes, suggesting that the benefits of development are not reaching the grassroots level effectively.
While acknowledging the overarching vision presented in the Governor’s Address, particularly its emphasis on enhancing service delivery and infrastructure, Pyngrope pointed out that the quality of execution of these plans would ultimately determine their success. He welcomed proposals aimed at upgrading essential roads but highlighted the neglect of numerous feeder routes which require attention.
On the topic of industrial development, he urged caution, suggesting that environmental impacts should be thoroughly assessed before advancing major factory projects, especially in regions already grappling with pollution issues. Furthermore, Pyngrope called for governance reform, advocating for a system that brings administration closer to the populace, and mentioned ongoing discussions about the establishment of a new district to improve local governance.