Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma presented a forward-looking budget on Wednesday, outlining the state’s ambitious roadmap to achieve a $10 billion economy by 2028 and rank among the top ten states in the country by 2032.
Dubbed the “Meghalaya Mission 10,” this initiative targets 10 key opportunity sectors to drive growth and create employment, coupled with 10 commitments to ensure equitable benefits for all citizens.
Sangma emphasised that the budget reflects extensive public consultation, making the mission “by the people, of the people, and for the people.”
The initiative was crafted with inputs from citizens and aligns with the state’s long-term aspirations to mark its diamond jubilee of statehood in 2032 with significant milestones, including leadership in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The budget also integrates insights gained from consultations with the Sixteenth Finance Commission, which visited Meghalaya in September 2024.
A 250-page memorandum detailing the state’s development trajectory and priorities was submitted during the visit, laying the groundwork for the budgetary framework.
Highlighting challenges faced between 2010-2018, Sangma noted that limited investments in health, education, and infrastructure during that period hindered the state’s progress.
He cited comparative data from the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which showed that while Assam reduced its multidimensionally poor population by 13%, Meghalaya achieved only a 4.8% reduction during the same timeframe.
However, since 2018, the state has reversed its economic fortunes, achieving an impressive 11% growth over seven years.
This has been driven by increased public investment, better utilisation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, and innovative programs such as the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI).
Despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the state has made strides in governance, service delivery, indigenous rights protection, and transformative investments in sectors like health, water supply, tourism, entrepreneurship, and information technology.
Challenges in agriculture, nutrition, and education remain, but the government is committed to sustained efforts for improvement.
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Sangma highlighted the unique “Meghalaya model of development,” which focuses on strengthening traditional community institutions, direct investments in citizens, and leveraging technology and partnerships.
Initiatives like cooperative society investments, grants for community infrastructure, and programs like the National Health Mission and MGNREGA have empowered grassroots institutions such as Village Employment Councils and Village Health Councils.
“Our collective efforts are bearing fruit, and this budget lays the foundation for continued growth, job creation, and enhanced citizen well-being,” Sangma said, expressing optimism about the state’s journey towards becoming a developed state by 2032.
