'People expect a lot from us as we are delivering'

A CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG, March 18: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Dr Mukul Sangma on Friday said that the initiatives taken by his government have generated more expectations from the people of the state.

“We have tried to respond to the needs of the people of the state. This has generated more expectations due to the ability of the government to meet the aspirations,” Dr Sangma said while replying to the debate on the budget discussion.

According to the Chief Minister, after the state government decided to create new civil sub divisions in the state there are demands to upgrade more areas.

Agreeing that the creation of civil sub divisions and administrative units brings governce closer to the people, Dr Sangma said such initiatives are continuous process and that his government will examine such demands.

“The government based on its ability will appropriately respond (to such demands),” Dr Sangma said.

The Chief Minister also said that while up-scaling developmental programmes in the state there needs to be a secured environment.

“We need to strengthen our interl security apparatus so that there are no time and cost overruns,” he added.

The Chief Minister also said that the approach to construct roads in hilly region needs to be different.

According to Dr Sangma the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) and Indian Road Congress (IRC) needs to formulate new plans while constructing roads to ensure the safety of travelers.

Dr Sangma also said that the state is trying to demonstrate fiscal discipline so that it can be credit worthy.

“By doing so we should be able to take advantage of the exterlly aided projects,” Dr Sangma added.

The Chief Minister also informed that the government was taking initiatives to improve education scerio in the state.

According to him to cater to the needs of the underprivileged children of the state the construction of residential schools will be completed by 2017-18.

Dr Sangma also said that more degree colleges will be constructed and requirements required have been posted to the Ministry of DoNER for funds under Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources.