Meghalaya CM Sangma pledges support for rural livelihoods in Jatah and Syntung

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: In a bid to gain firsthand insight into rural realities and government scheme implementation, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma visited Jatah and Syntung villages under Mawkynrew Block in East Khasi Hills on Thursday. The visit underscored the government’s commitment to inclusive development and community-driven progress, especially among women, youth, and farmers.

In Jatah, the Chief Minister engaged with members of the Jatah Nongklyer Integrated Village Cooperative Society (IVCS) and Self Help Groups (SHGs), who shared their stories of economic transformation enabled by income-generating activities. Urging further support, they sought his intervention to establish a processing unit that would add value to their produce. Addressing them, the Chief Minister reiterated his administration’s mission to bring every village into Meghalaya’s growth narrative. “We want our villages to be included in the growth story of Meghalaya; hence, a lot of intervention is being made particularly in rural areas, targeting women, youth, and the farming community. We want every section of our society to be involved as we take Meghalaya forward,” he said.

He praised the active participation of dorbars, SHGs, IVCS, and local leaders, stressing that development must reach the last mile. “Shared responsibilities between different stakeholders will ensure that we build self-sufficient and resilient communities,” he said, while encouraging youth and women to take ownership of grassroots initiatives. Calling the Jatah IVCS model exemplary, he said it showcased how integrated efforts in tourism, agriculture, and entrepreneurship can invigorate rural economies. “Our goal is not only to create infrastructure but also to build institutions that can sustain livelihoods for generations. The role of SHGs, IVCS, and village communities in this is central,” he added.

In Syntung, the Chief Minister was warmly welcomed with a vibrant musical performance, culminating in an impromptu jam session by Wah Rishi waterfall. Enthralled by the band’s instrumental mix of guitars, violins, drums, and mandolins, he announced ?5 lakh for new musical instruments. “Music is not just culture—it is identity, it is expression, and it can be an economic activity. I am proud to be a member of this band today,” he said with a smile.

He visited the village’s thriving strawberry plantation, where 115 beneficiaries cultivate some of India’s best produce. With 132 hectares under cultivation across the state, Meghalaya contributes approximately 4.26 percent of the country’s total strawberry production. He also interacted with beneficiaries of various schemes and highlighted CM-Assure, a programme designed to safeguard farmers from market price instability. “The scheme aims to provide fair remuneration to farmers until the market price for a specific commodity stabilizes or the allocated quota is met,” he informed.

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