Shillong, August 07 : In a key Cabinet meeting held today, the Meghalaya government deliberated on 21 critical items and gave its nod to several major decisions aimed at boosting tourism, enhancing administrative efficiency, simplifying regulations, and preserving cultural heritage.
New Rental Vehicle Policy for Tourists
To ensure tourist safety and proper regulation, the Cabinet approved a new policy mandating registration of all individuals renting out private vehicles and bikes with the Transport Department.
Administrative Overhaul in District Council Affairs
The Cabinet amended the Delegation of Financial Power Rules, 2006, empowering the Joint Secretary of the District Council Affairs (DCA) to act as Head of Department (HOD).
DCA will now be the single nodal department for disbursing revenue shares from Transport, Mining, and Forest Departments—streamlining a previously cumbersome process.
MCS Exam Revamp: Optional Subjects Scrapped
To bring fairness and relevance, the Cabinet discontinued optional subjects in the Meghalaya Civil Services (MCS)exams. A new mandatory paper on Meghalaya’s history, culture, and economy will be introduced to better prepare future officers.
Building Permission Made Online & Easier
Amendments to the Meghalaya Building By-Laws 2025 simplify the building permit process.
From August 11, 2025, citizens can apply online.
➡️ For Low-Risk Buildings- residential, commercial, and industrial buildings up to:
• 2500–3000 sq. ft. built-up area
• G+1 structure
• Max height: 7 metres
No technical approval needed from MUDA and can use empaneled architects/engineers. Submit self-attested designs online. Start construction immediately after submission.
➡️ For Larger Buildings (G+2, up to 7500 sq. ft.), Empaneled 3rd-party verification agencies, licensed architects and engineering firms registered with the Govt. will assist in submitting verified designs and getting faster approvals.
Legal Framework for Traditional Fermented Liquor
The government introduced Rule 1949 A in the Excise Rules, introducing a license for Fermented Country Liquor (FCL).
This new rule is only applicable for fermented local drinks made traditionally by our people across the state like bitchi, apong, judima, and others and does not cover distilled liquor, which is a whole different category.
Until now, there was no legal framework to regulate or support our traditional fermented beverages. With this amendment, we are recognizing and promoting local fermented brews by giving individuals, entrepreneurs, societies and firms a chance to get a proper license to produce and sell. This will boost local businesses and tourism by encouraging safe, quality-controlled production.
This is a step forward in preserving tradition, empowering local entrepreneurs, and responsibly tapping into our rich heritage.
Bonded Warehouse Categories Simplified
Warehouse classifications reduced from three to two based on annual turnover:
• Category A: ₹20 Cr+
•Category B: ₹10 Cr – ₹20 Cr
•Category C: Up to ₹10 Cr
The Categories are now reduced to 2:
•Category A: Turnover of more than ₹20 Cr per annum
•Category B: Turnover below ₹20 Cr per annum
Expansion of Homemade Wine Policy
The Cabinet expanded its wine policy to allow ginger, honey, rhizomes, and floral sources—beyond just fruit—to be used in homemade wine production, boosting rural entrepreneurship and innovation.
Lease Extension for Polo Orchid & Jiva Resorts
A 30-year lease extension was approved for both resorts in Sohra.
They will now pay:
- 4% of gross revenue
- ₹5 lakh annual lease rent
This aligns with state norms to ensure long-term viability for private players.
Women Allowed to Work Night Shifts
A partial modification to Govt. Notification LE&SD.62/2024/84 now allows women to work night shifts, aligning with policies followed at the national and state levels. This decision addresses a longstanding issue and prioritizes the safety and consent of female employees.
Strict measures, including CCTV surveillance and secure transportation, will be implemented to ensure a safe working environment. Women will have the choice to opt-in voluntarily, with no obligation to work night shifts if they are uncomfortable.
Slalom Water Sports Facility at Umtham
The Cabinet approved ₹21 crore for a dedicated Slalom Course at Umtham River, Ri Bhoi, acquiring 14.6 acres from MIDFC. Meghalaya, which won five medals in the last National Games, will now have India’s only such facility.
Other Key Approvals:
- Lt. Col. Aibanjop Sooting (Retd.) appointed as Zila Sainik Welfare Officer, Tura
- Financial powers granted to the Director of Prosecution
- Amendments approved for:
- Meghalaya Subordinate Treasury Accounts Service Rules, 1985
- Meghalaya Urban Affairs Service Rules, 2024
- Meghalaya Nursing Homes Rules, 2015
- Meghalaya Judicial Service Rules, 2006
- Meghalaya Higher Judicial Service Rules, 2015
- Meghalaya Police Telecommunication Service Rules, 2010
- Meghalaya Directory Establishment Ministerial Service Rules, 2010
