Meghalaya Poised to Emerge as ‘Fast-Mover State’ with Progress in Health, Education & Agriculture

On August 22, Meghalaya Information and Public Relations (IPR) Commissioner Vijay Kumar Mantri announced that Meghalaya is moving from the status of an “aspirer state” to a “fast-mover state”, thanks to significant achievements in the fields of agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure. His remarks came during Vartalap, a workshop organized by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) in Shillong, aimed at highlighting the impact of centrally sponsored schemes and the role of media in information dissemination.

Mantri pointed out that central schemes have been critical in accelerating the state’s growth trajectory. For example, 74 percent of farmers in Meghalaya are now covered under the PM-Kisan scheme, ensuring direct financial support to the farming community. Similarly, more than five lakh people in the state are availing health benefits under Ayushman Bharat and PM-JAY, reflecting strong strides in health coverage. In education and nutrition, the PM Poshan (Mid-Day Meal) scheme has expanded its reach to more than 7,700 schools, ensuring better nourishment for children. Another landmark achievement has been made under the Jal Jeevan Mission, which transformed tap water coverage in rural households. Mantri noted that seven years ago, household tap water coverage was virtually zero, but today the state has made remarkable progress, drastically improving access to clean drinking water.

Laying out the state’s future roadmap, Mantri emphasized the importance of state-Centre synergy in driving development. He stated that Meghalaya has set 2032 as a milestone year, coinciding with the state’s 60th anniversary, to achieve strengthened progress in key areas such as connectivity, water, power, internet, housing, health, nutrition, and education.

At the event, Governor C H Vijayashankar underscored that the success of government schemes depends not just on their design but also on effective implementation and awareness among citizens. He also highlighted the Union government’s special focus on the Northeast, noting that Meghalaya has been receiving due attention, particularly in the sectors of agriculture, horticulture, and infrastructure. The Governor stressed the vital role of media in spreading awareness, ensuring that citizens are informed of the opportunities and benefits available to them.

Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Meghalaya’s Minister of Information and Public Relations, described Vartalap as an important dialogue platform for connecting the government with citizens through the media. She cautioned against the misrepresentation of facts, which often creates public confusion, and reiterated the importance of authentic and verified information. While acknowledging Meghalaya’s strong performance in sectors like health and agriculture, Lyngdoh also admitted that challenges remain, and urged the media to play an active role in bridging these gaps. She also addressed the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), calling it a powerful but potentially dangerous tool if misused, stressing the need for responsible usage.

The workshop also saw interventions from senior officials. Kripa Shankar Yadav, Additional Director General of PIB-NEZ, explained that the discussions at Vartalap focused on centrally sponsored schemes, the role of artificial intelligence, and media laws and ethics, with the objective of benefiting both journalists and students.

Adding to this, NEHU Registrar S K Dixit reminded participants that while media freedom is essential, it also comes with significant responsibilities. He highlighted the need to revisit Indian media laws in the context of emerging technologies, ensuring that the legal framework remains relevant and effective.

In conclusion, the workshop highlighted Meghalaya’s transformation journey into a “fast-mover state,” driven by central schemes, effective governance, and the crucial role of media in fostering awareness and accountability. The event also emphasized long-term goals for 2032, while addressing present-day challenges and the responsible use of emerging technologies.