Governor stresses effective use of centrally sponsored schemes in Meghalaya

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 23, 2025

Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar on Friday underlined the need for effective implementation and communication of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), stressing that their success depends on both governance and public awareness.

He was addressing Vartalap—a dialogue on CSS and a media workshop on Media Laws, Ethics, and Artificial Intelligence—organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Shillong, in collaboration with NEHU and the Planning Department at Raj Bhavan.

“Schemes are designed to benefit people, but their success depends on how well they are implemented and how effectively citizens are informed,” the Governor said. He noted the Union Government’s focus on the Northeast, with Meghalaya receiving particular support in agriculture, horticulture, and infrastructure, adding that media plays a vital role in ensuring these benefits reach the people.

Minister of Information and Public Relations Ampareen Lyngdoh described Vartalap as an important platform for dialogue and fact-based communication. Citing Meghalaya’s achievements under NHM, PM-JAY and PM-Kisan, she said, “Authentic information is vital to prevent confusion. While the state has made strong progress, challenges remain, and the media must bridge gaps responsibly. AI is powerful but must be handled with care.”

Presentations were made by senior officials on the progress of key schemes. Commissioner and Secretary of IPR, Vijay Kumar Mantri, highlighted milestones under PM-Kisan (74% coverage), Ayushman Bharat, PMAY, Jal Jeevan Mission (from zero to significant coverage in seven years), and PM Poshan (covering over 7,700 schools). He said Meghalaya is moving from an “aspirer state” to a “fast mover state” and has set 2032 as a milestone year to strengthen ten priority sectors, including connectivity, health, housing, and education.

Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor, B.D.R. Tiwari, added that governance is now focused on social infrastructure and employment generation, supported by flagship programmes like Make in India, Startup India, and Digital India.

Women’s voices were also represented, with Seng Longkmie Madanriting president Anita Nongkhlaw welcoming government support for women, children, and BPL families. She urged greater awareness of schemes to enhance women’s economic empowerment.

The workshop also featured sessions on Artificial Intelligence and Media Ethics, followed by a panel discussion with media professionals and academics, including Patricia Mukhim of The Shillong Times and Oineetom Ojah of North East Live. Discussions centred on ethical technology use, media responsibility, and the role of journalism in strengthening democracy.

The programme brought together journalists, students, researchers, academics, and officials from across the state and the North Eastern Council.