SHILLONG, FEB 3: Chairman and executive members of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Tuesday interacted with a media delegation from Karnataka and provided a comprehensive overview of the role, powers and responsibilities of the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), functioning under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
They explained how KHADC plays a vital role in preserving the customs, traditions, and cultural identity of the Khasi people, while simultaneously addressing the administrative and developmental needs of the region.
The interaction was chaired by Strong Kharjana, Chairman, KHADC.
Senior officials and members of the Council present on the occasion included Powell Sohkhlet, Executive Member, Information Technology, etc, Seibor Warbah, Executive Member, Finance, Denzil Chen, Executive Member, Elaka, Deiti Majaw, Executive Member, Law)m, and D.G. Syiemiong, Secretary, Executive Committee.
The Council members elaborated on various aspects of governance, including the functioning of traditional institutions, the administration of Elakas, implementation of customary laws, and land and resource management systems.
Emphasis was laid on the importance of community participation and consensus-based decision-making in maintaining social harmony and effective grassroots governance.
Issues related to financial administration, legal frameworks, use of information technology in governance, and developmental initiatives undertaken by the Council were also discussed. The members highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity, improve service delivery, and address challenges related to development while safeguarding indigenous rights and environmental sustainability.
The media delegation actively engaged with the KHADC leadership, seeking clarifications on the functioning of the autonomous governance system and its relevance in contemporary administration. The interaction provided the journalists with valuable firsthand understanding of Meghalaya’s unique administrative framework, which blends age-old traditions with modern governance practices.
The visiting media professionals appreciated the opportunity to interact directly with the leadership of KHADC and acknowledged that the engagement would help in presenting informed and accurate perspectives on Meghalaya’s governance and cultural heritage to a wider national audience.
The Press Tour to Meghalaya continues to offer the media delegation meaningful exposure to the State’s cultural, administrative, and developmental landscape, fostering greater awareness and understanding through responsible media coverage.

