Resubelpara, March 4 : Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday attended the “Our Magnificent Meghalaya – Vision 2032” programme at the Mini Stadium in Resubelpara, marking eight years of the MDA Government and reiterating the State Government’s commitment to sustainable development, improved service delivery and inclusive growth.
The programme began with a tribute to late P. A. Sangma, followed by the State Anthem and felicitation of dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted Meghalaya’s economic progress, stating that the State is now the second fastest growing economy in the country after Tamil Nadu. He stressed that economic growth must remain inclusive and reach the grassroots.
“Development cannot be measured only in numbers. It must be holistic and must percolate to the last person at the grassroots,” he said.
Sangma added that the government’s programmes and policies are designed to ensure balanced development across sectors. “Economic growth must translate into real change in the lives of our people,” he stated.
On the Focus+ Scheme, the Chief Minister announced the relaunch of registrations from Resubelpara, informing that 2,000 new beneficiaries would receive cheques and that fresh registrations would begin immediately.
Describing the occasion as a day of remembrance, the Chief Minister recalled that ten years ago the nation, and particularly the Garo Hills region, lost a towering leader in P. A. Sangma. He noted the late leader’s contributions as an MLA, Member of Parliament and a strong voice of the North East in Parliament.
“Late P. A. Sangma remains with us through his vision, principles and ideals that continue to guide our governance,” Sangma said.
To honour his legacy, the Chief Minister announced initiatives including the development of a museum, a book and a film dedicated to P. A. Sangma.
Speaking on development initiatives, Timothy D. Shira, Minister for Tourism and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, described Focus+ as a transformative scheme that strengthens livelihoods and enhances income opportunities for producers and farmers.
He also stressed the importance of the Green Meghalaya initiative in conserving forests and restoring environmental balance. Reflecting on environmental changes in Resubelpara, Shira noted that the region was once richly forested but has witnessed significant depletion due to jhum cultivation and expanding settlements.
Expressing concern over environmental degradation, he cited the declining water levels of the Damring River, attributing the change to climate change and human activities.
“It is our responsibility to bring back the greenery and preserve it for future generations,” he said.
Earlier, Dr. Abhishek Saini, Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills, delivered the welcome address, noting that the programme was dedicated to the legacy of Purno Agitok Sangma and aimed at transforming Meghalaya into a $10 billion economy by strengthening sectors such as agriculture, tourism and entrepreneurship.
He highlighted that the Focus+ Scheme provides Direct Benefit Transfer of ₹5,000 per household to support agri-value chain activities including piggery, ginger, spices and aromatics.
Dr. Saini also spoke about the Green Meghalaya Plus Initiative, which provides incentives of up to ₹20,000 per hectare annually through a Payment for Ecosystem Services model, with eligibility extended to smaller landholders.
Beneficiaries under the Green Meghalaya initiative shared their experiences during the programme, reflecting the scheme’s positive impact on conservation and rural livelihoods. Cheques were also distributed to beneficiaries under Green Meghalaya and Focus+, highlighting the government’s emphasis on direct benefit transfer and grassroots empowerment.
The Vision 2032 programme is anchored on three key pillars — improved service delivery, sustainable infrastructure and opportunities for all. The Green Meghalaya programme currently covers 50,000 hectares of forest area and is set to expand by another 50,000 hectares to strengthen climate resilience and community-led forest management across the State.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by T. M. G. Momin.
The event was attended by public representatives, senior officials, community leaders and citizens from across North Garo Hills, with a cultural performance by students of Pascal School adding colour to the programme.
