Meghalaya CM emphasizes importance of expanding banking infrastructure in rural areas

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 29, 2025

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday inaugurated the 25th branch of HDFC Bank in Meghalaya at Tura, West Garo Hills. 

The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Ms. Agatha K. Sangma, Former MP; Abraham T Sangma, Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills;  Rikse R Marak,  CEO of Shillong Municipal Board, and Father Thomas John,  Principal  of St. Mary’s School.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma emphasised the importance of expanding banking infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas of Meghalaya. He lauded HDFC Bank for its initiative to strengthen banking services in Garo Hills and expressed confidence that the new branch would contribute significantly to the economic development of the region.

The Chief Minister highlighted the need for greater financial inclusion and urged banks to facilitate easy access to credit for entrepreneurs, small businesses, farmers, and the youth. He stressed that financial literacy is crucial in empowering citizens to utilise banking services effectively and called upon financial institutions to collaborate with the government to promote awareness and outreach in remote areas. Shri Sangma also assured full support from the State Government to resolve infrastructural and logistical challenges faced by banks operating in rural Meghalaya.

Former Member of Parliament, Agatha K. Sangma,  in her remarks, congratulated HDFC Bank on opening the new branch and expressed hope that it would improve financial services and employment opportunities in the region.

CP Marak- IFS Retd. Executive Chairman of MBOSE, underlined the role of financial institutions in ensuring economic security and urged the public to utilise formal banking channels for their transactions.

Rikse R Marak,  CEO of Tura Municipal Board, welcomed the bank’s expansion and encouraged efforts to promote financial literacy among women and youth in the Garo Hills region.

Father Thomas John,  Principal  of St. Mary’s School, offered prayers and blessings for the successful functioning of the new branch and called upon the bank to uphold ethical banking practices and community welfare.

The inauguration marks an important step towards strengthening the banking network and financial ecosystem in Meghalaya, ensuring that banking services reach every citizen.