Shillong, March 27: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday reassured the members of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly that there is no need to worry about Meghalaya’s loans as they are part of government expenditure. He stated that every government takes loans, and the Government of India has put a limit on the amount of the loan that no state is allowed to exceed.
Replying to the discussion on the Budget in Assembly, he further explained that the consolidation of sinking funds was created as a backup in case interest and repayment cannot be done. Sangma emphasized that 90% of loans are being paid by the Government of India, making it almost like a grant. He added that a strict system is in place, and the government is spending the loans in a proper manner.
Regarding the allegations that Meghalaya is the most corrupt state, Sangma said that it was an election statement made by certain individuals who even attended the swearing-in ceremony of his government. He urged members not to create a negative opinion about Meghalaya, as the state is known for the Meghalayan Age, Lakadong turmeric, rock capital, and root bridges.
“We have a great plan and let us not be the people who try to create a negative image for ourselves. While the entire world recognizes the IT works, the country gave us awards for sustainable tourism, for the immunization program, JJM… Meghalaya is changing and people are realizing it,” he said.
Sangma stated that the government aims to achieve a 10 billion dollar economy and create 5 lakh jobs in the next five years. He said that 45,000 jobs would be created from the tourism sector, 50,000 from IT, 10,000 from the government and semi-government sector, and 1 lakh from entrepreneurship and other sectors.
The chief minister also discussed the government’s plans to reduce traffic congestion by creating multiple skywalks and promoting walking culture. He added that the idea of the ropeway is to provide good tourism. He further explained that consultants’ appointments were mandatory, and about Rs 15,000 crore worth of projects implemented in Meghalaya mandated to have consultants.
Regarding the revamping of the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL), Sangma said that he had met with the Union Power Minister to discuss issues related to power, and the meeting was excellent. He added that the minister had given strong directions to officials to support the government of Meghalaya and MeECL, in order to bring the power corporation from the red to the green.
The chief minister also informed that another 300 million dollars or Rs 2,400 crore worth of projects have been approved for the MITPs. “This is because the World Bank is happy that the government has done a good job,” he added.
Sangma further assured that the government would do its best to find a solution and resolve the issue relating to disagreement among citizens regarding the demand for Sohra district, keeping in mind that East Khasi Hills is the biggest district in terms of population.
