Correspondent
SHILLONG, SEP 7 (NPN): Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan laid the foundation stones for five infrastructural projects worth over Rs. 1000 crores here in Meghalaya on Monday.
Radhakrishnan, who arrived on a maiden visit to this northeastern state of Meghalaya after he assumed the office of Vice President on September 12, 2025, laid the foundation stone in the presence of Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, his cabinet ministers and senior government officials at U Soso Tham auditorium.
A public reception was organised in honour of the Vice President Radhakrishnan by the people and Meghalaya government at U Soso Tham auditorium, where Chief Minister Sangma felicitated him.
The projects include the New Shillong Water Supply Scheme Phase II, Part A (Rs.850.58 crore) under the Urban Challenge Fund, two road connectivity projects under NESIDS, a 30-bedded AYUSH facility at Shillong Civil Hospital and a 132/33 KV substation at Mawkhanu under PM-DevINE.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President praised the state government for its various initiatives, which have made Meghalaya one of the fastest-growing economies in the country.
In order to achieve the vision of a developed India by 2047, Radhakrishnan said every state must progress in an inclusive manner.
The Vice President highlighted Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and unique social institutions, including its matrilineal heritage.
Radhakrishnan said the State’s vibrant grassroots institutions reflect India’s diversity and democratic traditions.
Earlier, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, who also spoke on the occasion, told the Vice President that Meghalaya is a young state that has faced challenges throughout its journey, but its greatest strengths are its community, traditions, and culture.
“These systems and traditions have been tested over centuries; even before modern governance existed, the state’s traditional heads protected its people,” Sangma said.
While informing the Vice President that Meghalaya is one of the fastest-growing economies in the country, the Chief Minister noted that Meghalaya development is not driven by GSDP alone; rather, the growth story must impact citizens and create opportunities for youth and farmers.
“Improving health sector has been one of the most important social areas we have been focusing on,” Sangma said.
The Chief Minister said that the foundation stones laid by the Vice President for these projects will strengthen Meghalaya’s water, road, healthcare, and power infrastructure, contributing to our vision of a more connected and prosperous state.
The Vice-President also witnessed vibrant cultural performances representing Meghalaya’s three major tribes, Garo, Khasi and Jaintia, along with a choir performance by the KHMIH Society, showcasing the State’s rich cultural heritage.