SHILLONG: The Meghalaya Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, on Wednesday, cleared a series of landmark proposals aimed at strengthening tourism, urban development, education, and key infrastructure across the state.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the decision to hold the Cabinet meeting at Ward’s Lake was symbolic, underscoring the government’s intent to declare the scenic landmark as Meghalaya’s premier venue for major cultural and literary events. Ward’s Lake, already the host of marquee events such as the Shillong Literary Festival and the soon-to-begin Winter Tales Festival, is undergoing a multi-crore makeover. The Chief Minister said the aim is to transform the space into a vibrant year-round cultural hub that will boost tourism, support local livelihoods, and highlight the state’s artistic identity.
Encroachments on GAD land in Tura
Sangma further informed that the Cabinet has approved a landmark policy to resolve decades-old encroachments on government (GAD) land in Tura Town. The new policy provides long-term leases to current occupants, following a model successfully implemented in Williamnagar. While ownership of the land will remain with the government, eligible households in surveyed localities will receive leases—bringing an end to long-standing disputes, court cases, and recurring law-and-order concerns, and paving the way for systematic urban development.
Acquisition of land at Umpardong, Umden
In another major decision, the Cabinet cleared the acquisition of land at Umpardong, Umden, in Ri Bhoi District to develop tourism infrastructure in the renowned “Silk Village.” To improve access, the government also approved ₹50 crore for constructing the crucial road linking Nongpoh to Umden. The planned development includes lodges and essential tourist amenities to accommodate increasing visitor footfall and promote Umden as an important cultural tourism destination.
Establishment of MTTA
The Cabinet also approved the establishment of the Meghalaya Teacher Training Academy (MTTA) as an autonomous society under the Directorate of Education, Research, and Training (DERT). The academy will focus exclusively on teacher education, capacity building, and professional development, offering specialized training across levels to strengthen the quality of education in the state.
Expansion of Shillong Airport
To enhance air connectivity, the Cabinet approved land purchase and exchange proposals with the Defence authorities for the expansion of Shillong Airport, enabling it to handle larger aircraft. The Chief Minister said the tendering process is already in progress, and the Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Transport has been tasked with holding consultations with local communities and traditional leaders to ensure a smooth acquisition and exchange process. The Cabinet granted in-principle approval for the proposal.
Electrification of villages and households
Under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), the Cabinet approved the electrification of villages and households previously left out due to reliance on the 2011 census. With nearly ₹500 crore sanctioned by the Government of India to cover newly formed villages and households, the state government aims to ensure universal access to electricity.
These decisions, the Chief Minister said, underscore the government’s commitment to sustainable urban planning, cultural revitalization, tourism promotion, education reform, and inclusive infrastructure development across Meghalaya.
