Shillong, March 3: Meghalaya Governor Chandrashekhar H Vijayashankar has reaffirmed the state government's commitment to doubling its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and transforming Meghalaya into a billion economy by 2028. Addressing the Republic Day celebrations at Polo Grounds, the Governor highlighted the state’s impressive economic growth and outlined key sectors driving this transformation.

Steady Economic Growth Over the Years

Governor Vijayashankar emphasized that Meghalaya's GDP has witnessed a significant rise over the past nine years, growing from ₹23,235 crore in FY15 to ₹53,057 crore in FY24. He credited this growth to strategic investments and focused development across crucial sectors, including roads, housing, water supply, power, tourism, and information technology (IT).

Connectivity as a Key Growth Driver

The Governor highlighted infrastructure development as a major contributor to the state's economic expansion. Over the past five years, more than 2,500 km of roads have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). Additionally, in the last two years alone, the state government has sanctioned road projects covering 568 km, significantly improving connectivity across Meghalaya.

To further enhance the road sector, the Centre has recently sanctioned mega infrastructure projects worth ₹2,500 crore, recognizing Meghalaya's excellent performance in this domain.

Urban Development and Infrastructure Expansion

Governor Vijayashankar underlined the government’s commitment to creating sustainable and dynamic urban spaces. Key projects underway include the construction of the New Secretariat in Mawdiangdiang, the Skills Hub, the Unity Mall, the New Shillong Water Supply Scheme, and various sports infrastructure initiatives.

He also highlighted the launch of the Shillong Integrated Command and Control Centre, which deploys 328 cameras to monitor urban service delivery and improve traffic management.

Boosting Private Investment and Employment

To stimulate economic growth and employment opportunities, the state has introduced the Meghalaya State Investment Promotion and Facilitation Act 2024, along with a new State Industrial Policy. Under these policies, 90% of non-managerial jobs in new industries will be reserved for local people.

Additionally, land banks are being created in compliance with the Meghalaya Transfer of Land Act, 1971, ensuring that development does not infringe upon the rights of indigenous communities.

Housing for All: Achievements and Future Plans

Under the state’s ambitious housing initiative, over 1.18 lakh houses have been constructed, with 82,995 rural homes built in the past two years alone. In urban areas, 3,097 out of 4,554 sanctioned houses have already been completed.

Ensuring Clean Drinking Water

Governor Vijayashankar noted the remarkable progress in providing clean drinking water under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Meghalaya, which had fewer than 4,500 functional tap connections in 2019, now boasts over 5.29 lakh households with access to clean water.

Power Sector Reforms and Energy Security

The Governor assured that Meghalaya is making strides in the power sector, with scheduled load shedding eliminated due to improvements undertaken by the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL). Technical and commercial losses have been reduced from 32% to 16% in the last five years, and the state expects to continue operating without load shedding in 2025.

Tourism Development and Promotion of Indigenous Culture

Meghalaya is heavily investing in tourism infrastructure, with major projects including the Shillong Peak Ropeway, the redevelopment of MICE infrastructure at Mawkhanu and Umiam Lake, and the establishment of around 600 homestays under the Meghalaya Tourism Homestay Scheme.

Additionally, four indigenous products—Meghalaya Garo Textile, Lyrnai Pottery, Meghalaya Chubitchi, and Lakadong Turmeric—received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2024. The government is also pursuing GI certification for Ryndia, a traditional fabric from the Ri-Bhoi district.

Health and Social Welfare Initiatives

The Meghalaya Early Childhood Development Mission has played a crucial role in reducing maternal mortality by 53% and infant mortality by 40% over the past five years. The Chief Minister Safe Motherhood Scheme has further enhanced healthcare services for pregnant women, benefiting over 3 lakh expectant mothers through improved transportation, diagnostics, and delivery services.

Empowering Youth Through Sports: Mission Football 2.0

Recognizing Meghalaya’s deep-rooted passion for football, the government is set to launch Mission Football 2.0. This initiative aims to train young athletes, establish 100 grassroots football infrastructures, and support the development of clubs and academies. The program is expected to generate over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs through football-related events and activities.

A Vision for a Prosperous Meghalaya

Governor Vijayashankar’s address underscored Meghalaya’s ambitious yet achievable goal of becoming a $10 billion economy by 2028. With strategic investments in infrastructure, private sector development, social welfare, and tourism, the state is well on its way to realizing this vision.

The government’s focus on sustainable growth, employment generation, and community-driven development ensures that Meghalaya’s economic expansion benefits every section of society, laying the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future.