Raphael Warjri

Shillong, 2nd June 2025:

The Committee on Environment of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, chaired by Shri Wailadmiki Shylla, MLA (Jowai), convened an internal meeting today at the Conference Room, Main Assembly Building, Administrative Block, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Police Bazaar (Khyndailad), Shillong.

Also in attendance were Committee Members Shri Mayralborn Syiem, MLA (Nongpoh); Shri Methodius Dkhar, MLA (Mawshynrut); Shri Heaving Stone Kharpran, MLA (Mawryngkneng); and Co-opted Member Dr. Wishming Ryngkhlem. Officials from the concerned government departments, district administrations, and the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Secretariat also participated in the meeting.

The primary objective of the meeting was to review the progress and current status of environmental and climate change-related initiatives across departments. Four key government departments made detailed presentations before the Committee:

1. Planning, Investment Promotion & Sustainable Development Department – Presented on climate change policy planning and strategic initiatives.
2. Forest and Environment Department – Focused on climate change efforts, particularly funding mechanisms and resource mobilization.
3. Soil & Water Conservation Department – Presented on watershed management and conservation practices.
4. Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board – Provided an overview of the current environmental status across the State.

The Committee engaged in an in-depth review of the presentations, gaining valuable insights into the scope, impact, and future direction of each department’s initiatives. The discussions underscored the importance of inter-departmental coordination, long-term planning, and proactive climate action to ensure environmental sustainability.

Chairperson Shri Wailadmiki Shylla remarked:

“This internal meeting was convened to facilitate direct engagement with the departments addressing environmental and climate change challenges in the State. Considering the current scenario, it is imperative to understand what measures are in place and what long-term strategies are being pursued. The presentations were informative and comprehensive, highlighting various departmental initiatives and future plans spanning the next two to three decades. The Committee also offered constructive suggestions to further strengthen these efforts. Today’s meeting marked a significant step towards building a coordinated and resilient environmental strategy for Meghalaya.”

The Committee on Environment reaffirmed its commitment to its oversight role and emphasized the need for sustained, collaborative efforts to safeguard the State’s environmental future.