M’laya receives Rs 555 cr NEC support in 2022-26

Roads, markets, tourism, livelihood projects among NEC push in state

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 21: From road connectivity and urban infrastructure to organic farming and youth exchange programmes, Meghalaya received investments worth Rs 555.63 crore from the North Eastern Council (NEC) during the 2022-26 period under the 15th Finance Commission framework.

An official communique stated that the funding covered multiple sectors, including education, entrepreneurship, tourism, agriculture, healthcare and tribal livelihood initiatives across the state.

A substantial portion of the allocation, amounting to Rs 160.87 crore, was utilised under the Schemes of NEC (SoNEC), supporting the construction and upgrading of community assets such as school buildings, markets, bridges, tourism infrastructure and healthcare facilities in different districts.

The Council said the interventions were also aimed at boosting livelihood opportunities through projects linked to honey production, mushroom cultivation, Lakadong turmeric processing, livestock development and integrated farming systems.

Organic farming initiatives and programmes supporting rural producers and tribal communities were likewise taken up during the period.

Alongside economic development projects, the NEC stated that several initiatives focused on preservation of Meghalaya’s cultural identity and strengthening local community infrastructure. These included the development of cultural complexes, eco-tourism facilities and community halls.

(Contd on P-7)