Transforming Meghalaya into a $10 Billion Economy: CM Conrad Sangma
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Synopsis
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma revealed plans to boost the state's economy to $10 billion in the next three years, emphasizing recent improvements in law and order, infrastructure development, and the implementation of new criminal laws to enhance governance.
Key Takeaways
- Goal of a $10 billion economy by 2028.
- Improvements in law and order over the past year.
- Implementation of three new criminal laws.
- Significant investments in infrastructure.
- Focus on technology and forensics in law enforcement.
Shillong, Jan 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma, announced on Sunday that the government aims to elevate the hill state to a $10 billion economy within the next three years.
In his Republic Day address, the Chief Minister noted that the law and order situation in Meghalaya has improved over the past year, contributing to the state's overall peace.
He elaborated on the implementation of three new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhinyam (BSA), with exceptions for autonomous district areas.
Sangma stated: "Our government's vision is to transform Meghalaya into a $10 billion economy by 2028, aiming to double our state's GDP. We are on track to achieve this objective, developing strategies across various sectors and mobilizing investments. The state's GDP surged from Rs 23,235 crore in Financial Year (FY) 15 to Rs 53,057 crore in FY 24. Key sectors propelling this growth include roads, housing, water supply, power, tourism, and IT.
"In the last five years, more than 2,500 km of roads have been constructed under PMGSY. The government is also working on expanding Shillong Airport to accommodate larger flights, enhancing connectivity,” he added.
Sangma emphasized: "The Meghalaya government is committed to improving the state's road infrastructure for better connectivity and economic development. Over the past two years, 568 km of road works have been sanctioned to boost connectivity in the region.
"Progress is being made on the Shillong-Dawki Highway and Tura-Dalu Road, with a new alignment for the Pynursla Bypass approved. Additionally, major projects like the Shillong Western Bypass and a high-speed corridor from Mawlyngkhung to Panchgram are also underway.
The CM also mentioned: "The overall law and order situation in the state has remained peaceful over the last year. In 2023-24, the three new Criminal Laws, namely the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhinyam (BSA), were implemented from July 1, 2024. However, the Autonomous District Council Courts will continue functioning under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule.
"These new laws signify a major shift in the administration of criminal justice, emphasizing technology and forensics. Accordingly, the state government has upgraded the Forensic Sciences Lab in Shillong to a full-fledged Directorate of Forensic Sciences and approved the establishment of Mobile Forensic Science Units in every district. Additionally, the Directorate of Prosecution has been operationalized with the appointment of a Director and Assistant Public Prosecutors.
