Shillong, Oct 14: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday outlined the state’s vision for scientific mining and sustainable economic development as the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) marked 10 years of operation.
Sangma highlighted the role of mining in Meghalaya’s economy and stressed the need to reinvest mineral revenue in community development and long-term livelihood opportunities.
Taking to X, Sangma said, “Mining remains a vital pillar of Meghalaya’s economy, generating significant revenue and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of our people. As one of our largest employment generators, the sector deserves our support as we transition towards safer, scientific and more sustainable mining practices suited to our local conditions and our system of community land ownership.”
Highlighting the DMF’s achievements over the past decade, he said, “Equally important is how we reinvest what mining earns,” noting that the foundation had mobilised ₹181 crore in Meghalaya and sanctioned 923 projects, of which 542 had been completed.
The completed projects include classrooms, health facilities, drinking water supply networks, monsoon-resilient footbridges and environmental restoration initiatives such as water conservation dams and tree plantation in quarry areas.
Sangma called for a greater focus on creating lasting assets and sustainable income opportunities through DMF-funded projects.
“The next step is to use DMF to build lasting assets and sustainable incomes. Our districts have already shown the way, with an eco tourism park and a value added bee products unit at Nengmandalgre, silkworm rearing and a weaving centre in Ri Bhoi, and a district emporium for local products,” he said.
He added that greater investment in tourism, food processing and local enterprises could help “turn our mineral wealth into a regenerative economy that creates opportunities for generations to come.”
Concluding his message, the Chief Minister urged district administrations to ensure effective utilisation of DMF funds and timely completion of projects.
“Urge all districts to ensure that DMF funds are actively utilised, that ongoing projects are completed without delay, and that we work together with communities to maximise its impact on the lives of our people.”
