SHILLONG, JUN 12: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday stressed that economic growth must deliver tangible improvements in people’s lives, as he outlined the state’s roadmap ‘Transformation Journey 2032’ at a NITI Aayog interaction with North Eastern Chief Ministers.
During the meeting convened by NITI Aayog, Sangma emphasised the link between growth and human development.
“Economic growth must translate into meaningful human development,” he said, while sharing Meghalaya’s vision to realise the goal of a Viksit Meghalaya by 2032.
The Chief Minister highlighted the role of externally funded projects in building critical infrastructure. “Externally Aided Projects have played a significant role in creating critical assets and accelerating development,” Sangma noted.
Advocating stronger regional cooperation, he called for greater collaboration among North Eastern States in trade, exports and environmental sustainability.
He also “underscored the need for policies tailored to the unique requirements of the region,” pointing to the distinct geographical and demographic challenges of the Northeast.
NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Ashok Lahiri, Members, CEO and Chief Secretaries from all eight NE states — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura — participated in the deliberations. The session focused on development priorities, innovations and challenges across agriculture, healthcare, education, skill development, tourism and infrastructure.
Chief Ministers of other NE states also presented their priorities.
Arunachal’s Pema Khandu highlighted hydropower potential and governance initiatives like ‘Sarkar Aapke Dwar’.
Assam’s Himanta Biswa Sarma stressed balanced, inclusive growth. Mizoram’s Lalduhoma sought flexibility in Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
Nagaland’s Neiphiu Rio pushed for improved transport and market access for products like Nagaland coffee.
In her concluding remarks, NITI Aayog Member Ms. Joram Aniya thanked the states for sharing progress and priorities.
“NITI Aayog would continue to work closely with the concerned ministries and departments of Government of India to facilitate the development of the North-Eastern states,” she said.
