Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma sought Rs 23 crore for SICPAC project

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma met Minister of State (MoS) for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Dr Jitendra Singh, and submitted a memorandum requesting an additional sanction of Rs 23 crore under the 'Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources' (NLCPR) component for infrastructure requirements in the construction of the Shillong International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture (SICPAC) at Mawdiangdiang.

The project was funded under NLCPR at a cost of Rs 151.33 crore. However, since the sanctioned amount did not cover the requirement of high-quality audio-visual equipment, the State Government had also requested a sanction of Rs 22.85 crore from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the North Eastern Council (NEC).

While the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has sanctioned an amount of Rs12.85 crore, the NEC has agreed to provide Rs 10 crore for the project.

The SICPAC has been designed as an iconic and state-of-the-art centre which is expected to contribute to the development and promotion of the arts and culture of Meghalaya and the entire north-eastern region.

He also discussed issues related to the sanctions for the construction of the 'Rongjeng Mangsang A'dokgre road' including a 'bridge over Ildek River' under the Ministry. The Chief Minister told the DoNER Minister, "This is a strategic road of the State especially for the Garo Hills region. It will provide the much-needed connectivity to a large number of villages in the area." He also urged Dr Singh to ensure that the required amount is sanctioned to restart the construction work.

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