What Projects Will FM Sitharaman Unveil in Meghalaya?

Shillong, July 10 (NationPress) Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has arrived in Shillong to announce a range of transformative infrastructure and development projects, reflecting the government's commitment to economic growth, sustainable tourism, digital inclusion, and women's empowerment, as per officials.

An official indicated that during her four-day visit to Meghalaya, the Finance Minister would inaugurate the revamped Polo Shopping Complex in Shillong on Thursday, alongside Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, followed by an engagement under the Project Monitoring Information System (PMIS) in Shillong.

On Friday, the Finance Minister is scheduled to launch the Northeast Conclave and lay the foundation stone for the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) campus at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong.

The Chief Minister of Meghalaya will participate in the event as the Guest of Honour.

Sitharaman will also explore the Shillong Tech Park at Umsawli and open an exhibition featuring farmers and entrepreneurs at the Lariti International Centre, Shillong. Throughout her visit, the Union Minister plans to attend multiple events and engage with various stakeholders to assess development efforts and interact with beneficiaries across different sectors. She will meet industry stakeholders at the Courtyard Marriott, Shillong, on July 12. This day will also include meetings with Women Self-Help Groups, Lakhpati Didis, and Farmer Producer Organisations at Laitkynsew Village.

Furthermore, FM Sitharaman will engage with beneficiaries of the Payment for Ecosystem Services Programme at Siej Village. Her visit will culminate in a public program at Sohbar Village, one of the 96 designated Vibrant Villages.

On the concluding day of her visit, July 13, she will tour the Ram Krishna Ashram School at Sohra. The Union Finance Minister's visit highlights the Centre’s ongoing support and strong commitment to Meghalaya’s developmental initiatives across crucial sectors, according to officials.

In related news, earlier this week, Meghalaya's Chief Minister advocated for increased financial assistance for smaller northeastern states, citing their unique geographical, economic, and developmental challenges. Sangma raised this issue during his meeting with members of the 16th Finance Commission, led by Arvind Pangarhiya, in New Delhi on July 7.

On his social media platform, the Meghalaya Chief Minister remarked: “North East States, while having their own unique and distinct issues, share common concerns and challenges. In this context, a joint memorandum from Mizoram, Tripura, Sikkim, and Meghalaya was submitted to the 16th Finance Commission, outlining the special needs and developmental priorities of the region.”