Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 144/24

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION OF SOUTH WEST GARO HILLS LAUNCHES CLEANLINESS CAMPAIGN

In a significant step towards promoting waste segregation and sustainable development, the District Administration of South West Garo Hills, in collaboration with the District Tourism Department, launched a cleanliness campaign and distributed dustbins across schools, tourist areas, and other key locations.

The event, held on 15 November 2024 at the DRDA Conference Hall, DC Office building, was chaired by Hema Nayak, Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills. The program was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioners (ADCs), Block Development Officers (BDOs), and other officers of the District Administration, underscoring the importance of collective efforts in waste management and environmental conservation.

The campaign's goal is to encourage the residents to adopt proper waste disposal habits as sustainable waste management begins at the community level. By providing accessible dustbins in schools, tourist spots, and other key areas, the District Administration aims to foster a culture of cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

The campaign involves the installation and distribution of dustbins, strategically placed to ensure ease of access and to support the segregation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce littering and promote recycling practices across the district.

This campaign aligns with the broader vision of achieving sustainable development goals and improving the overall quality of life in the district.

Press Release No. 145/24

UNION MINISTER OF CIVIL AVIATION LAUNCHES SEAPLANE DEMO FLIGHT FROM SHILLONG AIRPORT TO UMIAM LAKE

Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Hon'ble Union Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation, attended theseaplane demonstration operation todayat Umiam Lake. Organized by the Transport Department, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation at Umiam Lake, Shillong Watersports Complex, this initiative aims to give a significant boost to regional connectivity. On his maiden visit to the Northeast, particularly Meghalaya, the Hon'ble Union Minister for Aviation expressed his gratitude to Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon'ble Chief Minister, whose support made the seaplane demonstration possible in the scenic Umiam Lake. “The seaplane demonstration is not only a technological milestone for us but a tribute to the vision of connecting India in a new and innovative way,” he said. He recalled the Hon'ble Prime Minister's first journey on a seaplane in 2020, which sent a powerful message across the country that India stands for unity and accessibility, showcasing the potential of seaplanes to bridge hard-to-reach destinations and elevate regional tourism.

He underscored the importance of bold initiatives to make aviation more accessible, efficient, and people-centric, aiming to elevate the spirit of the 'Udaan' Scheme to greater heights. The seaplane demonstration in Meghalaya, he stated, bears witness to the collaboration between the central government and Meghalaya. The Hon'ble Union Minister also mentioned that six aerodromes have been developed under the RCS Udaan, with six new seaplane routes awarded. Udaan 5.4 was launched with a special focus on seaplanes, and now Udaan 5.5 is also prioritizing seaplanes. He requested the Hon'ble Chief Minister to explore further options to expand seaplane connectivity to Tura and other areas with similar water bodies. He assured that the Airports Authority of India and the Ministry of Civil Aviation will support the expansion of Shillong Airport at the earliest.

Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, emphasized the importance of connectivity for national growth and tourism development. Drawing from his personal experience as an entrepreneur in the early 2000s, he recalled the challenges of traveling through the Northeast, including 20-hour journeys from Shillong to Imphal. However, with the introduction of the UDAN scheme in 2018, connectivity has improved significantly. He noted that Umroi Airport has become functional, with regional trade, tourism, and people-to-people connectivity seeing a substantial boost. Sangma expressed optimism about advancing this progress through seaplane integration. He highlighted plans to utilize reservoirs in Tura for seaplane operations, ensuring long-term water availability. Additionally, a seven-star resort is being developed in Shillong, with bids already received. The state government has established over 700 homestays and aims for 2,000 more. Efforts are underway to establish direct flights to New Delhi, with the state government providing Viability Gap funding. The Umroi Airport expansion is also a priority to accommodate larger aircraft, and the Baljek Airport in Garo Hills has been inaugurated, with plans for Shillong-Tura flights.

Sangma noted that Shillong has become one of the most sought-after destinations, even surpassing Azerbaijan's Baku. He attributed this success to investments in tourism infrastructure, including festivals and programs. The state government is developing the tourism ecosystem, including connectivity, infrastructure, and manpower, positioning Meghalaya for significant economic growth.

Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar, Hon'ble Deputy Chief Minister in charge of the Transport Department, highlighted the state government's focus on developing the tourism sector and positioning the state as a premier destination. Notably, Umroi Airport now operates seven days a week, and efforts are underway to enhance connectivity with other states. To further boost economic growth, plans are in place to improve connectivity at Umroi and Baljek airports, along with introducing helicopter services. Shri Dhar expressed his confidence in achieving a $10 billion economy, with the development of the aviation sector in Meghalaya playing a pivotal role in driving growth.

Press Release No. 146/24

1ST REGIONAL CAMP ON NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY ACT, 2013 FOR KHASI JAINTIA HILLS REGION AT SHANGPUNG

To enhance the understanding and effectiveness of the National Food Security Act NFSA, 2013, the 1st Regional Camp on National Food Security Act, 2013 for Khasi Jaintia Hills Region was held today at Shangpung Village in the Moolibang Community Hall, Shangpung. The Regional Camp was organised by the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Supply, West Jaintia Hills District. Deputy Commissioner of West Jaintia Hills Shri. B.S Sohliya, IAS in his welcome address outlined the objective of the gathering.

Minister incharge of Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Shri. Comingone Ymbon, along with Chairman of State Food Corporation Shri.P.S Thangkhiew attended the Regional Camp. Minister Shri. Comingone Ymbon, in his address said the purpose and primary goal of organising the regional camp was to educate the public, especially the beneficiaries, about their rights under the National Food Security Act, 2013 and also to make the public understand the importance of linking their Aadhar cards with their ration cards. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that the benefits of the NFSA reach the rightful beneficiaries, while calling for the cooperation of the beneficiaries to make this possible.

The Minister requested the village headmen to look into any grievances in their communities and ensure fairness in the distribution system. He urged the well-off beneficiaries to voluntarily withdraw their names so that the more deserving household gets the benefit. He also stressed the urgency for beneficiaries to link their Aadhar with their ration cards, as time will come when those who fail to do so may lose their entitlements. At that time neither the government nor the supply can be held responsible.

He further encouraged citizens to report complaints if they arise to the vigilance committee at the village level and if unsolved escalate the issue to the Deputy Commissioners or the directorate of supply. However, he emphasised that complaints cannot be solved if they are not formally filed with appropriate authorities. Regarding the ration cards, he added that there has been a delay in issuing new ones due to postponement of the census caused by COVID-19. He assured that the government plans to resume the census in 2025 which will help to resolve the pending issues.

Shri. P S Thangkhiew, Chiman Meghalaya State Food Commission who also spoke, encourage the beneficiaries to report any shortcomings of irregularities they face emphasizing their right to seek redressal, if they encounter issues such as inadequate distribution, denial of benefits or other related grievances they can file complaint through established mechanism, the office of the Deputy Commissioners Supply, Directorate of Food civil and Supplies, Helpline and online portals. The Food Commissioner stated that strict actions can be taken against individuals or officials for any irregularities or violations in the distribution system.

Shri. S K War, from the office of Food Civil Supplies and Consumers Affairs delivered a comprehensive presentation on National Food Security Act, 2013, emphasising on the need for Aadhar card seeding to ensure efficiency and transparency in the supply of rations to the beneficiaries. He informed that Aadhar card has been introduced as a solution to ensure that subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries. By locking Aadhar numbers with Ration cards, the government can uniquely identify beneficiaries, eliminate duplication and enhance transparency in the distribution process. He also elaborated on the Aadhar seeding process, which includes collecting Aadhar numbers, verifying them and enabling biometric authentication for foodgrain distribution.

He also informed that filing of complaint can be done contact the department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumers Affairs in the toll-free number 1967 or whatsapp 9402327737 during office working hours, or they can filed a complaint online using the Meghalaya Public Grievance Redressal and Monitoring system, megPGRAMS at www.megpgrams.gov.in. Complaints can be filed in writing, telephone, WhatsApp or online to the District Grievance Redressal Officer (DGO) and Assistant Grievances Redressal Officer (AGRO). Sub-Divisional Officer SDO Sadar, East Jaintia Hills District Shri. Aditya Verma, IAS, Assistant Commissioner South West Khasi Hills District, Mawkyrwat Shr. A L Bareh, MCS, officials from the other district of Khasi Hills were present to address the public, urging them to cooperate for transparent distribution of NFSA benefits. They also highlighted the challenges they faced in making the public understand the importance of linking Aadhaar with ration cards. Several awareness programmes have been conducted to educate people about the processes and its significance. The Member Secretary of the Meghalaya State Food Commission Smt. D M Suja, MCS and Member Shri. Ravi Gurung who was also present addressed the public. To further create public awareness Josephas Thongni and his team from West Khasi Hills District performed a song focused on Aadhar awareness, creatively conveying the importance of linking Aadhaar with ration cards.