Shillong, October 30 : In a resounding example of participatory governance, Meghalaya’s CM Connect initiative—spearheaded by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma—continues to bridge the gap between government and citizens. The Chief Minister held an interactive session with the people of Mawkynrew, East Khasi Hills, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to last-mile service delivery and responsive leadership.
Launched in February 2024, CM Connect is redefining the way governance reaches people, combining on-ground interaction with real-time grievance redressal. With over 30,000 citizens assisted, 15,000 direct interactions, and 92% satisfaction rate, the initiative is being viewed as a potential national template for responsive leadership, bridging the gap between citizens and policymakers.
At Mawkynrew, Chief Minister engaged with individuals and community leaders on issues such as road connectivity, agriculture, power, education, healthcare, and water supply. He issued on-the-spot directions to officials for time-bound resolution, reflecting the government’s ethos of listening, accountability, and action.
Before the interaction, Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the Thangsning Stadium, a modern sports facility envisioned to nurture local sporting talent and strengthen youth development.
Addressing the gathering, Conrad K Sangma said, “It is a programme where we talk less and listen more. So, we are hopeful that through the CM Connect program, we are able to resolve the problems of the people. I would request that officers should feel happy that you are getting an opportunity to be with the people. You’re getting an opportunity to serve and to be able to solve their problems.”
Banteidor Lyngdoh, Hon’ble MLA of Mawkynrew, raised key development issues including the demand for an artificial turf in Mawkynrew, improved water supply, and completion of the Jongksha–Thynroit bridge.
Responding, Sangma announced several commitments aimed at strengthening infrastructure and public services.
On the request of Banteidor on having an artificial turf at Mawkynrew, the CM said, “We mentioned about the artificial turf. I am giving you a commitment today, right here in the CM Connect program. I’ve spoken to officials that they should expedite the DPR preparation, and it will be a gift from my side to Bah Banteidor who is the local MLA and to the youth of our constituency for the artificial turf that he has just demanded.”
Banteidor also voiced his concern on completing the Jongksha-Thynroit bridge. Sharing updates on the bridge, CM added, “I’m happy to tell you that finally, the DPR is ready, and department will be sending it within a day or two days’ time to the Planning Department, and we expect the sanction to happen within a week’s time, the work for the Jongksha-Thynroit bridge connection will start within a couple of months’ time. So, these two projects are definitely happening.”
As far as the water supply in Nongjrong is concerned, CM informed that the source of the water is needed for purpose, even as he said that the payment of electricity for the water supply will be an issue. To this matter, Pynshai Synjri, Sordar of Nongjrong, gave his commitment that the electricity bills will be managed by the community of Nongjrong. In response to his query for a hospital, CM assured that PHCs at Jongksha and Jatah will be expanded. Edren Mawkhiew of Laitkyrhong raised concerns over prolonged power cuts, which will be fixed by renovating the Lad Smit-Jongksha line under Revamped Distribution Scheme (RDSS). Pynbiang Kshiar of Umtong highlighted the lack of higher-secondary schools, which will be addressed by exploring school upgrades and rationalizing grants to adhoc schools and SSA Schools. Olet Kharsohnoh queried agricultural support (seeds/storage), which will be met with a new seed survey, an increased budget, and a solar-powered cold storage program. A resident Maron Suting expressed concern on the delay in material payments under MGNREGS, the inability to capture the attendance of those who work under the MGNREGS, and the linkage of Aadhar. To this grievance, the officer concerned narrated the technical issues relating to the attendance and the e-KYC authentication. As far as the Aadhar issue is concerned, the officer has requested the people to enrol for Aadhar to get the benefits. A resident Lomida Nongkynrih from Thynroit asked whether a veterinary hospital can be set up in the area, to this the officer concerned informed that it is not feasible to set up a veterinary hospital. There are however, 4 veterinary facilities in Mawkynrew. CM has taken cognizance of the matter. Another resident Pynsngewtynnad Rynjah sought queries on Anganwadi centers in far-flung areas, towards this important issue of providing nutrition, CM assured to look into the matter.
Later, Conrad K. Sangma also inspected the Anganwadi Centres at Jongksha and Umkhoi, the Jongksha Stadium, and the Eklavya Model Residential School, interacting with officials and community leaders to assess service delivery on the ground.
The CM Connect initiative continues to strengthen Meghalaya’s vision of governance rooted in public dialogue, technology, and accountability. Similar public hearings have been successfully held in Bhoirymbong, Betasing, Adokgre, and Laskein blocks.
Furthering accessibility, the CM Connect Centre at P.A. Sangma Stadium, Tura, inaugurated on August 30, 2025, now connects citizens to the government through a toll-free helpline (1971), available in five languages- English, Khasi, Garo, Pnar, and Hindi.
With structured feedback mechanisms, measurable impact, and high satisfaction outcomes, CM Connect exemplifies how technology and trust can together deliver governance that truly listens.
