Shillong | June 23| Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today held CM Connect at Mawkdok under Laitkroh C&RD Block in East Khasi Hills.
The Block level community interaction programme witnessed participation from the public, with representatives from various villages highlighting concerns related to road connectivity, electricity, healthcare, housing, drinking water, banking services, and the implementation of central and state welfare schemes like PMAY, NFSA, and Jal Jeevan Mission.
Speaking at the programme, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said, “At CM Connect, we talk less and listen more. This platform is not to place blame or find fault, it is an opportunity to listen, reflect, and act. Everyone makes mistakes, but what’s important is our collective will to solve problems and move forward positively.”
The chief minister informed that the primary aim of CM Connect is to hear directly from citizens and to integrate their feedback into government action plans. “By bringing governance to the grassroots level, the government seeks to build accountability, transparency, and trust”, he added.
“This programme increases the accountability of the system. I have seen that even small actions, when guided by local feedback, can bring positive change. It is not about one department or officer, it is about us, as a collective government, taking responsibility and working together,” the chief minister said.
He extended his gratitude to local MLAs Gavin Miguel Mylliem and Matthew Beyond Kurbah, as well as the officers present, for their active role in responding to the concerns raised.
During the programme, the chief minister also unveiled the Mawkdok Skywalk Project architectural designs, a tourism initiative expected to boost the local economy and create new opportunities in the region.
On the sidelines of the interaction, the chief minister also urged people to ensure their Aadhaar is linked to various welfare schemes, reminding them of the June 30 deadline to avail benefits like PMAY, MHIS, NFSA, and job cards.
“We want to ensure that no one is left behind. These programmes are a reflection of our intent—to serve better by listening better,” he added.
In an attempt to empower local communities and promote grassroots entrepreneurship, the food served during today’s CM Connect programme at Mawkdok was entirely prepared and supplied by local Self-Help Groups (SHGs). This initiative, brainchild of the Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, is part of a broader vision to make governance outreach programmes more inclusive and economically impactful for rural communities.
“Every CM Connect is not just about interaction; it’s about integration. When we conduct such programmes at the block level, it is our responsibility to ensure that everything – from food to supplies – is procured locally. This way, we encourage SHGs, women-led enterprises, and community-based organisations to take the lead and benefit from government initiatives,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that by involving SHGs in logistical aspects like catering, transport, materials, and even event management, the government is creating a sustainable model of participatory development where communities are not just beneficiaries but active stakeholders.
The Chief Minister has directed that going forward, all CM Connect events held at the block level will prioritize local procurement – be it food, supplies, or logistical support. He urged block officials and programme organisers to collaborate closely with SHGs and other village-led institutions to implement this approach effectively.
“This is a small but powerful way to ensure that every rupee we spend during these programmes goes back into the local economy,” the chief minister added.