People-centric governance defines Meghalaya's development model: CM Sangma
Shillong, July 1
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday asserted that governance can be considered successful only when it directly improves the lives of ordinary citizens, saying the state government's development agenda is focused as much on people-centric welfare measures as on large infrastructure projects.
Addressing a felicitation programme organised by the Joint Action Committee to acknowledge the government's One Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for commercial vehicles, the Chief Minister said development should not be measured solely through roads, buildings and other infrastructure but by the tangible benefits delivered to the people.
"Development is not just about constructing big roads, buildings or stadiums. Every decision we take must translate into a real improvement in the lives of our people. That is the true measure of governance," Sangma said.
The organisers felicitated Sangma along with Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar for implementing the OTS scheme aimed at providing relief to commercial vehicle owners.
Referring to the initiative, the Chief Minister said the government had taken a difficult but necessary decision to waive dues amounting to nearly Rs 850 crore to Rs 1,000 crore, placing the welfare of thousands of transport workers above revenue considerations.
He said the government realised that around 16,000 truck owners and drivers, along with nearly two lakh family members dependent on the sector, had been severely affected, making intervention imperative.
Sangma also responded to criticism that his government was focused only on mega infrastructure projects, saying such assessments ignored the administration's continuous efforts to resolve long-pending issues affecting different sections of society.
According to him, the government has simultaneously worked towards addressing concerns of teachers, supporting farmers, encouraging entrepreneurship and introducing welfare measures that directly benefit citizens.
The Chief Minister further stressed that while landmark infrastructure projects signal Meghalaya's growth aspirations, their ultimate purpose is to improve the quality of life of the people.
Calling for collective responsibility, Sangma urged all stakeholders to maintain financial discipline and assured that the government would continue strengthening governance systems while keeping citizens at the centre of every policy decision.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's encouraging to see a CM articulate that development is more than just big buildings. Waiving nearly ₹1,000 crore in dues is a bold move, but I hope the government also ensures long-term financial sustainability. Balancing welfare with fiscal discipline is tricky — let's see how they manage it going forward.
Having lived in Meghalaya for work, I can say this: the OTS scheme is a lifeline for so many transport families. They were struggling badly. Kudos to CM Sangma and Deputy CMs for acting decisively. But I wish the article also mentioned how teachers and farmers are being supported — that would complete the picture.
'Development is not just about roads and buildings' — finally a leader who gets it! In many states, infrastructure projects are touted as achievements, but common citizens often don't feel the benefit. Sangma's approach of putting people first is what India needs. Hope other CMs take note. 🌟
The bit about financial discipline and collective responsibility is crucial. Waiving ₹850-1000 crore is a big deal, and it should come with measures to prevent future defaults. I appreciate the people-centric vision, but implementation and accountability will matter most in the long run.
Living in Shillong, I've seen how the transport sector was in a crisis. The OTS scheme is a game-changer. But I hope the government doesn't stop here — they need to fix the roads too! 🛣️ After all, infrastructure and welfare go hand in hand, as the CM rightly said.