Shillong, March 30 : Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday inaugurated several development projects at Umsning Football Ground, Patarim in Ri Bhoi district, aimed at boosting livelihoods, sports infrastructure, and rural empowerment. Among the key initiatives launched was Ri Bhoi Silk Dream: E-RISE—a project focused on eri rearing, innovation, spinning, and empowerment of farmers and weavers.
The Chief Minister said the project aims to Enhance cocoon production, Promote value addition into yarn, Generate rural employment and Strengthen SHG-led enterprises. He informed that over 7,000 eri farmers and weavers in Ri Bhoi will benefit, with an initial phase covering 1,200 households across 22 clusters.
The government plans to invest around ₹4.61 crore in the sector, expected to generate nearly ₹10 crore annually for beneficiaries. Sangma emphasised that the returns will directly benefit farmers and not the government, improving incomes and sustainability in the silk sector.
The Chief Minister also laid the foundation for the Umsning Mini Stadium, a long-pending demand of the local community. The project, worth ₹4.71 crore, will include Natural football turf, Covered gallery, Side drains and Chain-link fencing.
During the programme, the Chief Minister distributed E-RISE machinery and equipment, Nets and financial assistance and Training certificates to fish farmers. He highlighted that over 1,600 fish farmers have already been trained following public feedback received through the CM Connect programme. Sangma said the projects were a result of direct interaction with the people, reaffirming that the government remains responsive and committed to delivering development based on public needs.
The programme was attended by Sosthenes Sohtun, Minister for Community & Rural Development, Dr C Lyngdoh and Mayralborn Syiem along with officials from the district administration.
