Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman concluded her four-day Meghalaya visit by inaugurating projects worth Rs 1,087 crore and visiting the historic Ramakrishna Mission School. She praised the state’s effective use of central funds, women’s empowerment efforts, and celebrated the institution’s 100-year legacy of education and leadership.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman concluded her four-day official visit to Meghalaya on Sunday, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s development trajectory. The visit culminated with a heartfelt tribute to Swami Vivekananda at the historic Ramakrishna Mission School in Sohra (Cherrapunji), underscoring the enduring value of education, community service, and women’s empowerment.
Inauguration of Projects Worth Over Rs 1,000 Crore
During her stay, the Union Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for several developmental projects across Meghalaya amounting to a total of Rs 1,087.81 crore. These initiatives are aimed at bolstering infrastructure, improving connectivity, and enhancing public welfare in the region. Speaking at the integrated public programme held at LARITI – International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, Sitharaman expressed her admiration for the state’s leadership and governance.
“Meghalaya is progressing steadily under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma,” she said, lauding the state’s effective utilization of central funds.
She further highlighted the Centre’s commitment to Meghalaya, noting that the state has received Rs 5,400 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme.
“I am happy that the government has used the amount effectively for capital assets. I want to place on record my appreciation for Meghalaya’s efforts. The funds are being fully utilised,” Sitharaman remarked, contrasting Meghalaya’s performance with other states that have struggled to make use of their full allocations.
Empowering Women Through Skill Development
On the final day of her visit, Sitharaman toured the vocational training centre at Ramakrishna Mission School in Sohra, where she interacted with around 100 women receiving free weaving training. Praising the initiative, she emphasized the importance of skill development and economic empowerment for women in rural and semi-urban areas.
Swami Anuragananda, Secretary of the Mission, appreciated the Union Minister’s longstanding relationship with the institution.
“She took keen interest in our century-long journey—from education and healthcare to community service—and acknowledged our impact,” he noted.
Honouring a Legacy of Leadership and Learning
The Ramakrishna Mission School, which is currently celebrating its 100th anniversary, has played a formative role in Meghalaya’s educational and social landscape. Sitharaman’s visit included a symbolic sapling plantation to mark the centenary celebrations—representing growth, sustainability, and the enduring legacy of the institution.
She also met with former students, local entrepreneurs, and prominent dignitaries including Padma Shri awardee Theilin Phanbuh, known for her advocacy of women’s welfare, and 90-year-old Lolin Lyndem, an alumnus and former teacher of the school. Sitharaman acknowledged the institution’s notable alumni, including former Chief Minister B.B. Lyngdoh, Member of Parliament G.G. Swell, and former Assembly Speaker Donkupar Roy, emphasizing the school’s contribution to shaping Meghalaya’s leadership.
Focus on Grassroots Development
Beyond inaugurations and ceremonies, Sitharaman’s Meghalaya visit reflected a clear emphasis on grassroots development. From infrastructure investments to education and women’s empowerment, the initiatives launched or endorsed during this trip represent a multi-pronged approach to progress. Her direct interactions with local communities, especially women and entrepreneurs, reaffirmed the Centre’s people-centric development vision.
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As Meghalaya continues to evolve with sustained support from the central government, the Finance Minister’s visit stands as both a recognition of the state’s progress and a call for continued collaboration in building a resilient and inclusive future.
