Shillong, April 15: The Meghalaya Cabinet on Wednesday took a historic decision to approve the Meghalaya Official Languages Ordinance, 2026, paving the way for Khasi and Garo to become official languages of the state alongside English.
With this move, Khasi and Garo can now be used in government communications. The Cabinet also approved the repeal of the Meghalaya State Language Act, 2005. Officials informed that necessary amendments will be made to relevant laws, including the Meghalaya State Legislature (Continuance of English Language) Act, 1980, which will eventually allow legislators to speak and debate in Khasi and Garo in the Assembly.
The decision is also expected to facilitate the use of Khasi and Garo in various examinations in the future. While implementation will take time, the government said the ordinance lays the groundwork for gradual adoption of the languages. The move aligns with the Assembly’s resolution seeking inclusion of Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, and is seen as a step to strengthen the state’s case before the Centre.
In another key decision, the Cabinet approved the establishment of the Greater Shillong Waste Management Agency and its registration as a Society. The new agency aims to streamline waste management in Shillong, where multiple agencies currently operate, leading to coordination gaps and inefficiencies. The initiative follows consultations across the Greater Shillong Planning Area, which spans approximately 288.5 square kilometres. Authorities clarified that availing the services of the agency will not be mandatory, allowing localities the flexibility to opt in.
The Cabinet also approved amendments to the Meghalaya Real Estate (Regulation and Development) General Rules, 2020. The changes are aimed at ensuring uniformity in the remuneration of the Chairman and Members, bringing them in line with norms followed by other government agencies.
