Has Meghalaya Stepped Up Its Anti-Drug Campaign and Plans for a Territorial Army?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold move against narcotics, Meghalaya's government is ramping up its anti-drug operations with significant seizures and arrests. Alongside this, plans for a new Territorial Army are underway, promising enhanced security. Discover how these initiatives could transform the state's landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Meghalaya intensifies anti-drug operations with significant seizures.
- Territorial Army proposal to enhance state security is underway.
- Cash rewards and certificates for ANTF personnel to encourage effective action.
- Relocation of hawkers in Shillong aims to improve urban management.
- Major tourism investments approved to boost local economy.
Shillong, Aug 20 (NationPress) The government of Meghalaya has intensified its efforts against drug trafficking, with the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) recently reporting significant drug seizures and arrests. Officials announced on Wednesday that narcotics valued at over Rs 4 crore were confiscated just last week, leading to the detention of several drug dealers. In recognition of their successful operations, the government has initiated cash rewards and certificates for ANTF personnel.
Since August 2024, detention orders under Section 31 of the PITNDPS Act have been executed against five repeat offenders, including Pynhoi Nongtdu of Thadlaskein, Hubert Lamphrang Dkhar of Mawiong Nongstoin, Marwel Nongbah of Lumpariat Jowai, and Rintu G. Saikia alias Pahadi. Authorities have also frozen their bank accounts and those of their immediate family members.
The government has issued a warning that anyone providing shelter to these offenders will be prosecuted, and detentions may be prolonged if the accused are found engaging in illegal activities again.
On the security front, the state is progressing with plans to establish a Territorial Army for Meghalaya. This proposal will be brought before the Cabinet on August 26.
Officials stated that the new unit would serve as a supplementary security force alongside Village Defence Parties (VDPs).
This initiative follows the recent announcement by the Border Security Force (BSF) to fill 300 positions exclusively for Scheduled Tribe candidates from Meghalaya.
In Shillong, the government has set a deadline of November to relocate hawkers from the Laitumkhrah-Civil Hospital area to Motphran, with plans to extend this relocation to other areas of the city.
Meanwhile, the Centre has approved substantial tourism investments for the state. The Union Ministry of DoNER has greenlit a Rs 220 crore project at Sohra, which will feature an experiential tourism hub highlighting rural village life.
The Union Minister is expected to lay the foundation stone during the upcoming Cherry Blossom Festival.
The government is also working on a heritage resort at the Lawsohtun Sericulture Farm, established in 1925 during the British era. This project will be integrated with the state’s textile complex and aims for completion within two years.
On the cultural side, the Arts and Culture Department has approved a film about the life of freedom fighter U. Tirot Sing, with renowned filmmaker Pradip Kurbah assigned to develop the script.
Point of View
Including establishing a Territorial Army, it's crucial to recognize the delicate balance between maintaining law and order and respecting the rights of citizens. These developments deserve national attention.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions is the Meghalaya government taking against drugs?
The Meghalaya government is intensifying its crackdown on narcotics through significant drug seizures and arrests, supported by the Anti-Narcotics Task Force.
What is the purpose of the proposed Territorial Army in Meghalaya?
The proposed Territorial Army aims to serve as an auxiliary security force to enhance safety and support existing Village Defence Parties.
