Meghalaya: CM Sangma urges citizen-centric governance on WED
Shillong, June 5
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday called for a more citizen-centric approach to governance, asserting that the true measure of development lies not in the inauguration of projects but in the positive impact they create in people's lives.
Addressing a World Environment Day (WED) programme at Mawrah village in East Khasi Hills district, Sangma said government programmes should focus on recognising citizens and communities rather than felicitating public representatives and officials.
He remarked that success is not measured by inaugurating a reservoir, a restaurant, or a cottage. While those are important milestones, the real measure of success lies in how projects improve people's lives.
The programme, organised by the Tourism Department and the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA) under the theme Inspired by Nature, For Climate, For Our Future, witnessed the inauguration of eco-tourism facilities, distribution of Green Meghalaya cheques under the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) initiative, and a plantation drive using the Miyawaki afforestation method.
Sangma also unveiled newly developed Eco-Cottages and a Glass House Restaurant at Mawrah Lake, describing them as unique tourism attractions that could strengthen sustainable tourism while generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
He stressed that tourism is not merely about infrastructure, but about experience. The warmth, hospitality, and participation of local communities ultimately determine a destination's success.
Highlighting Mawrah's transformation, Sangma said the village, which once faced water scarcity and environmental degradation, has emerged as a model of community-led conservation and development. He noted that rejuvenation of springs, restoration of vegetation, and creation of water storage infrastructure have made Mawrah an example for others to follow.
The Chief Minister encouraged local residents to establish homestays and tourism-linked enterprises to ensure that economic benefits remain within the community. He also advocated greater participation of local artists, musicians, and youth in showcasing Meghalaya's cultural heritage through performances, folklore, and traditional arts.
Calling for the integration of farmers and local producers into the tourism value chain, Sangma said tourism establishments should source vegetables, fish, poultry, and other products locally to strengthen rural economies.
On the occasion of World Environment Day, he reminded citizens that environmental responsibility must extend beyond a single day of observance. He said it is not the big actions that matter most, but the small actions each person takes every day that collectively make a difference.
Earlier, the Chief Minister distributed Green Meghalaya cheques to beneficiaries under the state's PES initiative, which incentivises communities and individuals to conserve ecosystems and sustainably manage natural resources. He also participated in a plantation drive aimed at ecological restoration and climate resilience.
Senior government officials, local leaders, students, and community members attended the programme.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see an Indian state focusing on ecosystem services payments. Back in the US, we have conservation easements but nothing quite like PES. The Miyawaki method is catching on globally too. Good to see concrete action on World Environment Day.
"Success is not measured by inaugurating a reservoir" - but bhai, we've seen so many projects inaugurated and then forgotten. The real test will be in 2 years when we check if those eco-cottages are still running and the springs are still flowing. Abhi to sab green-washing lagta hai. Hope I'm wrong! 😕
Love the emphasis on local sourcing for tourism! In Meghalaya, the indigenous food and culture are the biggest draws. If homestays can offer traditional Khasi cuisine with locally grown vegetables, it's a win-win for farmers and tourists. Thumbs up from this travel enthusiast! 🌿
As someone who's travelled to Meghalaya, I can attest that the warmth of the people matters more than fancy infrastructure. But the state also needs better waste management systems - saw too much plastic near tourist spots last year. Hope the eco-tourism push includes that.
Payment for Ecosystem Services sounds great on paper but need to see the transparency. How are beneficiaries selected? What's the amount? Is there oversight? Meghalaya is doing well but we need accountability too. That said, the spring rejuvenation in Mawrah is genuinely impressive - shows what local communities can achieve.
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