New Delhi, Jan 21 (Agency) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said his government is committed for expediting development in Meghalaya, especially it’s connectivity with other regions. “Centre has been trying to expedite Meghalaya’s development since last seven years. The government is committed to ensure road, rail and air connectivity. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is making all efforts to take the Central schemes at the grassroots,” Modi said while addressing the people of the North Eastern state on their 50th Statehood Day. Lauding the people of the state for further strengthening their identity as people close to nature, the PM said, “Meghalaya has given the message of conservation, eco-sustainability to the world.” Referring to the traditions of ‘Whistling’ village and choirs in every village, the PM saluted the contribution of the state in the fields of art and music. Apart from art, the talented youth of Meghalaya are contributing in the field of sports and making the country proud, he added.
“Sisters of Meghalaya have revived the art of bamboo weaving and its hard working farmers are strengthening Meghalaya’s identity as organic state”, he said, while noting the growing fame of the state in the field of organic farming. He, however, said Meghalaya is yet to achieve in various sectors apart from tourism and organic farming, and added that Centre will stand by the state to achieve it. “Meghalaya has achieved so many things. However, it is yet to achieve in various sectors. Apart from tourism and organic farming, there is a need for efforts in new sectors. We will work together for this,” said Modi. He further said schemes like Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojna and National Livelihood Mission have benefitted the people of the state. Talking about ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’, Modi said 33 per cent households now have tap water connections in the state. On Covid-19 vaccination, the PM observed that Meghalaya is among the first states to use drones for vaccine delivery.