Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development while attending the “Our Magnificent Meghalaya – Vision 2032” programme at the Mini Stadium in Resubelpara.
The event marked eight years of the MDA Government and saw the distribution of benefits under the Green Meghalaya and Focus+ schemes.
The programme began with a tribute to late P. A. Sangma, followed by the State Anthem and felicitation of dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister highlighted the state’s economic performance, stating that Meghalaya is currently the second fastest growing economy in the country after Tamil Nadu.
He emphasised that growth must remain inclusive and reach the grassroots.
Development, he said, should not be measured solely by statistics but must bring tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Announcing the relaunch of registrations for the Focus+ scheme from Resubelpara, Sangma said 2,000 new beneficiaries would receive cheques and that fresh enrolments would begin immediately.
The scheme provides a Direct Benefit Transfer of Rs. 5,000 per household to support agri-value chain activities, including piggery, ginger, spices and aromatics.
Describing the occasion as one of remembrance, the chief minister recalled the contributions of P. A. Sangma, noting his role as MLA, Member of Parliament and a prominent voice of the North East.
He announced plans to honour the late leader through a museum, a book and a film dedicated to his life and achievements.
Tourism and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Timothy D. Shira termed Focus+ a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening farmers’ livelihoods and income opportunities.
He also underscored the importance of the Green Meghalaya initiative in forest conservation, pointing to environmental degradation in parts of Garo Hills.
Referring to the shrinking water levels of the Damring river, he attributed the change to climate factors and human activities and called for collective efforts to restore greenery.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills, Dr. Abhishek Saini, said the programme was dedicated to the legacy of Purno Agitok Sangma and aligned with the government’s vision of transforming Meghalaya into a $10 billion economy by strengthening sectors such as agriculture, tourism and entrepreneurship.
ALSO READ: Five-day Yaoshang celebrations kick off across Manipur
He highlighted that under the Green Meghalaya Plus Initiative, incentives of up to Rs. 20,000 per hectare per year are provided through a Payment for Ecosystem Services model, with eligibility extended to smaller landholders.
The Green Meghalaya programme currently covers 50,000 hectares and is set to expand by an additional 50,000 hectares to enhance climate resilience and community-led forest management.
Beneficiaries shared their experiences during the event, outlining the positive impact of the scheme on conservation and rural livelihoods.
Cheques were formally distributed under both Green Meghalaya and Focus+, reinforcing the government’s focus on direct benefit transfer and grassroots empowerment.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by T. M. G. Momin and was attended by public representatives, senior officials, community leaders and residents from across North Garo Hills.
A cultural performance by students of Pascal School was also presented during the event.
