Shillong, September 30 : The Meghalaya Cabinet today approved a major relief measure for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) employees by sanctioning advance payment of the Council’s share of royalties. The move will enable the Council to clear salary backlogs of upto 12 months.
As part of the agreement, an IAS officer will be appointed as Principal Secretary to the GHADC to oversee salary disbursement and initiate financial reforms. An escrow account will also be created to ensure transparency and proper utilization of funds exclusively for salary payments.
The Cabinet also approved the demarcation of GAD land at Saitsohpen, Sohra Civil Sub-Division, ending a decades-old land ownership dispute between Elaka Saitsohpen and the State Government.
Following recommendations of a high-level committee chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, the Cabinet decided to hand over 128 acres of land to Elaka Saitsohpen, while the remainder will remain under the General Administration Department. A formal agreement will be signed to give effect to this resolution.
In a move to standardize service conditions, the Cabinet approved the Meghalaya Directorate and District Drivers’ Service Rules, 2025. The new rules will ensure uniformity in pay structures, career progression, and service management for drivers employed across Directorates and District Offices.
The Cabinet also approved a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the State Guest House, Taraghar, Shillong, aimed at improving its management and services.
Lastly, the Cabinet approved the holiday list for the year 2026, providing clarity for government offices and institutions across the state.
