Tura, February 9: Stressing the importance of grassroots governance, Bernard N. Marak, MDC of Tura and Convenor of the 2026 Union Budget State Committee, BJP, has called for stronger involvement of traditional institutions in empowering Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across Meghalaya under the provisions of the Sixth Schedule.
In an official statement issued, Marak said the Union Budget 2026 has placed renewed emphasis on strengthening local self-governance through increased allocations and policy support for RLBs and ULBs, presenting Meghalaya with an opportunity to reinforce democratic decentralization and ensure development reaches every village and town.
He stated that villages and localities under the Sixth Schedule should have committees headed by traditional heads, urging Nokmas, Syiems, Doloi, and other custodians of tribal institutions to take active roles in guiding and empowering local governance bodies.
Marak emphasized that while the Sixth Schedule provides constitutional safeguards, its true strength lies in the active participation of traditional leaders in shaping local governance systems. He added that local self-governance and devolution of funds to the grassroots were part of accords aimed at strengthening Autonomous District Councils, which are further supported through provisions in the Union Budget 2026.
He also noted that villagers are expected to benefit from the extension of work opportunities under the VB G RAM scheme, which provides an additional 25 days of employment over the existing 100 days. Village Employment Councils (VECs), he said, should actively involve traditional heads in governance processes at the village level.
Autonomous District Councils, which are responsible for implementing development funds, were also urged to facilitate the active participation of traditional leaders in both rural and urban local bodies.
Highlighting key aspects of the budget, Marak pointed to enhanced allocations for local infrastructure, sanitation, housing, and livelihood programs, greater autonomy and financial support for local bodies, and recognition of traditional institutions as essential partners in ensuring accountability, transparency, and cultural integrity.
He further stressed that empowering RLBs and ULBs would strengthen grassroots democracy while safeguarding tribal land rights, cultural identity, and ecological balance.
“By combining traditional wisdom with modern governance, Meghalaya can set an example of participatory development for the entire North East,” Marak said.
