Meghalaya CM Sangma launched major climate and education initiatives in North Garo Hills, including a ₹500 crore water project and new girls’ hostels. He also celebrated a record 96% SSLC pass rate and defended the CM Impact guidebook as a key tool for student success.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma launched a series of key initiatives at Mendipathar in North Garo Hills on Monday. The event witnessed the presence of PHE Minister Marcuise Marak, Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, and MLAs Marthon Sangma and Rupert Momin.
Chief Minister Sangma unveiled plaques inaugurating various initiatives, including the launch of two new hostels — a Girls’ Hostel at Mendipathar and a Tribal Girls’ Hostel at Resubelpara. These infrastructure projects aim to promote education among girls, especially those from remote and tribal areas.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma announced the commencement of the Climate Adaptive Community-Based Water Harvesting Project, a massive initiative supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), valued at over ₹500 crore. This project will be implemented across all districts of Meghalaya, aiming to boost water sustainability, enhance ecosystem health, and improve climate resilience.
Additionally, the Chief Minister launched the ‘Megh Adapt Pay’ project, amounting to ₹47.19 crore. This initiative forms part of the broader water harvesting project and will be implemented by the Soil and Water Conservation Department. Its goals include afforestation, conservation of forests, restoration of degraded lands, and expansion of green cover throughout the state.
“These projects reflect a strong partnership between the community and the government to protect our natural resources,” Sangma emphasized. “We are committed to building a sustainable future for our state through inclusive and adaptive climate strategies.”
The Girls’ Hostel at Mendipathar College, constructed at a cost of ₹3 crore, will operate on a not-for-profit model and will be managed by the Awe Self-Help Group (SHG). Meanwhile, the Tribal Girls’ Hostel at Resubelpara, built at a cost of ₹2.5 crore, will be managed by Ramke Memorial School. The Chief Minister highlighted that these hostels will provide a secure and encouraging environment for girls, enabling them to continue their education without hindrance.
Sangma also expressed satisfaction over the improved results in the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) exams. He noted that the pass percentage has now risen to an impressive 96% following the supplementary exams — the highest in the Northeast and potentially the best in the country.
Speaking on the CM Impact guidebook, Sangma addressed criticism by affirming its usefulness. “Students and parents have appreciated the guidebook. It’s a support system for those who can’t afford commercial alternatives. I congratulate all the students who passed their exams.”
