In a concerning revelation, Meghalaya’s border areas, whether adjacent to Bangladesh or Assam, continue to struggle with inadequate basic amenities. This persistent issue highlights the challenges faced by these remote and strategically important regions. Border Area Development Minister Rakkam Sangma recently addressed these challenges, pointing out that the scarcity of resources has become a significant obstacle. He attributed this deficit primarily to the central government’s cessation of funding under the Border Area Development Programme, which has not been received for the past four years. “The central government has not provided funds for the last four years, and we are still awaiting communication on this matter,” Sangma stated, reflecting the growing frustration over this stalled support.
This funding shortfall has led to widespread discontent among the residents of these areas. Particularly, communities from Block-I, a region involved in a border dispute with Assam, have taken their grievances to the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission. They are demanding equitable facilities like hospitals and schools, which remain largely out of reach. Historically, central government initiatives spearheaded development efforts in these locales. However, with the ongoing lack of central funding, Minister Sangma assured that the state is intervening through alternative projects funded by schemes like MGNREGA and the Basin Development Programme.
Despite these interventions, the current state of infrastructure and amenities in Meghalaya’s border areas remains insufficient to meet the needs of local populations, heightening the call for renewed central support. The situation underscores the urgent necessity for revitalized efforts and collaboration between the central and state governments to address the developmental hiatus and ensure adequate provision of essential services to these neglected border regions. This lingering issue remains a focal point for both governmental policies and public advocacy in Meghalaya.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/01/13/minister-acknowledges-lack-of-resources-in-border-areas/
Category : MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-01-13 04:01:00
