Sohra, November 19 : Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today inaugurated the Operation Theatre Complex at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Saitsohpen, Sohra, and laid the foundation stone for Sohra Market Phase-II, marking another milestone in the government’s commitment to strengthening health and infrastructure in the region.
Also present at the event were Wailadmiki Shylla, Minister for Health and Family Welfare; Balajied Kupar Synrem, MLA, Shella; and Gavin M. Mylliem, MLA, Sohra, among other dignitaries.
In his address, the Chief Minister lauded the journey of the Sohra CHC as “an inspiring story of transformation and dedication.” He said, “The history of this CHC — from what it was to what it is today — is truly commendable. It is an example of what can be achieved when we put our hearts and souls into our work with a sense of purpose.”
Highlighting the State’s progress in the health sector, he noted a significant reduction in maternal mortality rates (MMR) through targeted interventions. “This achievement shows that it’s not always the big investments but small, focused steps that can make a real difference,” he added.
Announcing a major policy shift, the Chief Minister revealed that the government has approved the introduction of Outcome-Based Budgeting, beginning with the Health Department.
“We are now moving toward results-oriented governance. Funds will be allocated based on needs and performance,” he said, explaining that this model allows for greater accountability and efficiency. He described it as a “reverse but effective” budgeting method that ensures local issues are addressed more meaningfully
The Chief Minister also expressed happiness in laying the foundation stone for Sohra Market Phase-II, describing it as part of the government’s vision for “balanced development across Meghalaya.” He noted that Sohra, as a major tourist destination, needs modern infrastructure and that the new marketplace will create opportunities for local youth entrepreneurs.
Encouraging the youth to take advantage of government schemes, he said, “This market will be a space not just for trade but for dreams and enterprise.”
He also informed that the road from Umtyngar to Mawsmai has been taken up by the World Bank, calling it a “great investment to promote tourism and connectivity in Sohra.”
Emphasizing the link between healthcare and tourism, the Chief Minister said, “The Sohra CHC is a vital institution that reduces the need for patients to travel to Shillong for medical care. It saves time, money, and resources while also enhancing the confidence of visitors who know quality health services are available locally.”
The new Operation Theatre Complex at Sohra CHC will significantly improve access to essential and emergency surgical care, reducing patient referrals to Shillong. The facility is expected to provide timely medical relief and financial savings for residents of Sohra and neighboring areas.
The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from local leaders and officials, who hailed the inauguration as a major step toward inclusive development and better public service delivery in Meghalaya.
