DoNER Secy reviews progress of key development projects in Meghalaya

Union Secretary for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), Sanjay Jaju, on Saturday reviewed the progress of key development initiatives and strengthened Centre-State coordination to further accelerate Meghalaya’s growth.
Jaju who is on a two-day visit to Meghalaya chaired a high-level review meeting with the Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed and senior State government officials at the State Secretariat.
A government official said the meeting focused on assessing the progress of key development initiatives and strengthening Centre-State coordination to further accelerate the state’s growth.
During a comprehensive meeting, the Secretary reviewed a portfolio of 16 projects sanctioned between FY 2022-23 and FY 2025-26, with a total sanctioned amount of Rs. 1411.58 crore, significantly exceeding the normative allocation of Rs. 1262 crore.
This robust portfolio is led by the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE), which funds several major projects. The projects include the construction of a new four-lane road in New Shillong Township and the development of an IT Park at Tura.
Significant funding has also been directed toward the tourism sector, including a passenger ropeway at Shillong Peak and a skywalk and tourist hub at Mawkdok.
The development of the Sohra Tourism Circuit stands out as a flagship initiative under PM-DevINE, involving distinct projects aimed at preserving heritage and enhancing the visitor experience. Key components include the Khasi Heritage Experiential Centre at Saitsohpen, the development of the Nohkalikai Falls precinct and the Mawsmai Eco Park. Other improvements are being carried out at Shella River Side, Nohsngithiang Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Wahkaliar Canyon, Arwah Cave and Wah Kaba Fall to ensure a world-class tourism infrastructure in the region.
Under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS)-Roads and NESIDS-OTRI (Other Than Road Infrastructure), the state is managing additional development works. The OTRI segment includes vital social infrastructure such as the Bulk Water Supply Scheme for Tura Town and the Greater Baghmara Water Supply project.
Meanwhile, road infrastructure remains a priority with major projects sanctioned, including the rehabilitation of the stretch from Chokpot to Kharukol, the construction of a road from Shkentalang to Lumshyrmit including a major bridge on the Myntdu river and a major bridge over the Umngot River.
Addressing the officials, the DoNER Secretary expressed his deep appreciation for the progress made in the Northeast, describing the pace of development as heartwarming.
Drawing from his experience with the National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), Jaju noted significant improvements in infrastructure, project execution and economic growth across the region.
Jaju highlighted visible progress in road infrastructure, including new bypasses, as well as the construction of key public infrastructure such as Secretariat buildings, research institutions, hospitals and libraries.
He emphasised that strong leadership and guidance from the State Government have played a crucial role in driving market growth and development.
Jaju expressed confidence that the Northeast could achieve sustained growth over the next two years with continued leadership support, Jaju
While acknowledging challenges like land availability for industrial projects, the DoNER Secretary emphasised that the growing logistics sector and the potential in bamboo and turmeric signify a bright economic future for Meghalaya.