Shillong, April 17: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday inaugurated the Dalu Block Integrated Development Complex at Dalu C&RD Block in Barengapara, West Garo Hills, dedicating the facility to the people of the region.
Minister in charge of Border Areas Development, Civil Defence & Home Guards, and Excise, Brening A. Sangma, attended the programme as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted the historical and strategic importance of Dalu, noting that the block, established in 1954, has played a key role in the State’s development journey. He described it as an important border block that has evolved into a vibrant economic zone driven by agriculture and cross-border trade.
He also recalled that the long-standing demand to upgrade Dalu into a sub-division was fulfilled in December 2022, marking a significant milestone in the region’s administrative development.
Emphasising grassroots governance, Sangma said block offices serve as the first point of service delivery, though many have historically operated from inadequate infrastructure. He stressed that strengthening block-level institutions is essential to ensure development reaches every household.
The Chief Minister informed that Meghalaya has expanded from 24 blocks at the time of statehood to 56 C&RD blocks today, reflecting a decentralised administrative framework.
Referring to the new complex, he said it would function as a one-stop centre for governance and service delivery, benefiting over 12,000 households and more than 30,000 people by bringing multiple departments under one roof and improving access to schemes.
He urged officials to serve people with compassion, noting that many citizens from remote areas require guidance in accessing government services and schemes.
The Chief Minister added that the inauguration is part of a broader effort to strengthen grassroots infrastructure across the State, including improvements in roads, health facilities, water supply, and administrative institutions.
Meanwhile, Minister Brening A. Sangma expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for sanctioning the project and encouraged citizens to take advantage of government schemes for livelihood and economic development.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining peace for sustained development, noting that recent unrest in Garo Hills had delayed the completion of some projects.
Earlier, Mary Lisa K. Marak, In-Charge Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, delivered the welcome address, while the history of Dalu Block was presented by Lehena C. Marak. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by BDO T. N. Sangma and a thanksgiving prayer by Rev. Cherengre D. Sangma.
The Dalu Block Integrated Development Complex, constructed at a cost of ₹3 crore, is expected to enhance coordination among departments, improve delivery of welfare schemes, and strengthen rural governance in the region.
