Shillong, December 1 : Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today inaugurated the newly constructed office building of the Directorate of Community & Rural Development (C&RD) at Lower Lachaumiere, Shillong, marking a significant milestone for one of the state’s key administrative departments.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by C&RD Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, Principal Secretary C&RD Sampath Kumar, and Director C&RD S.C. Sadhu, among other officials and staff members.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma lauded the C&RD Department for its crucial role in uplifting rural Meghalaya through development schemes and welfare initiatives. “The Community and Rural Development Department has been performing exceptionally well, with committed and focused dedication in implementing schemes, projects, and welfare programmes that have brought meaningful change to the lives of people in our villages,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasised that while new infrastructure such as the Directorate building would improve efficiency and coordination, the department’s true strength lies in its people. “Infrastructure is important for efficient delivery, but it is the heart and soul with which you work that truly makes the difference,” he added.
Highlighting the department’s far-reaching impact, the Chief Minister reminded the officials of their immense responsibility in driving development for the majority of Meghalaya’s population. “Eighty percent of the population of our state depends on the work being done by the C&RD Department. You have a great responsibility, and I urge you to continue working with the same commitment and dedication,” he said.
The newly inaugurated Directorate of C&RD Office Building is designed to streamline administrative functions and coordination across the state’s rural development programmes. The facility will house various operational units and serve as the nerve centre for implementing flagship schemes aimed at improving livelihoods, infrastructure, and governance in rural areas.
