Tura, Feb 7: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today laid the foundation stone for a 10-bedded Integrated AYUSH Hospital at Merengipara in South West Garo Hills district under the National AYUSH Mission.
The programme was attended by MLA, Mahendraganj Constituency, Sanjay A. Sangma, MLA Salmanpara Ian Botham M Sangma, and other dignitaries and officials.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described the occasion as a landmark moment for the region. He stated, “Today, we are not merely laying a foundation stone; we are laying the groundwork for a future where quality healthcare reaches people where they live, with dignity, accessibility and trust.”
He said the Integrated AYUSH Hospital reflects the Government’s strong commitment to decentralising healthcare, particularly in remote and border areas. Informing that the project has been approved for the 2025–26 financial year with a total outlay of ₹7 crore, the Chief Minister announced that 35 new posts are proposed under the project. These include AYUSH doctors, nurses and yoga instructors, aimed at ensuring reliable and continuous healthcare services. He emphasised that the facility would also provide inpatient care, addressing a long-standing gap in healthcare delivery that had previously been limited largely to outpatient services.
The Chief Minister further stated that the hospital would play an important role in de-addiction and youth wellness, observing that “a healthy youth is the foundation of a strong and resilient Meghalaya.”
Urging local residents to take ownership of the facility, he said, “It is built for you, your children, and generations to come.”
Expressing satisfaction at the development taking place in the constituency, the Chief Minister acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the local MLA. He noted that the MLA’s personal involvement in monitoring and overseeing development works is clearly reflected in the tangible improvements seen on the ground.
Describing the Integrated AYUSH Hospital as one of the most important initiatives for the region, the Chief Minister said it would serve not only Merengipara but also surrounding areas. He emphasised that the facility would not function as a conventional hospital alone, but would focus on lifestyle-related treatments and holistic healthcare. He also pointed to the future scope of integrating traditional systems of medicine and indigenous medical knowledge, thereby strengthening healthcare delivery in this border region.
Referring to challenges faced by residents in border areas, the Chief Minister recalled the hardships caused by poor road infrastructure in the past, which had adversely affected daily life, trade and access to essential services.
He noted that road connectivity has improved significantly through various State and Central Government schemes.
Addressing issues arising from the closure of border gates in the evening, he informed that the local MLA has proposed the construction of an alternative bypass road. He assured that surveys would be initiated to identify and develop bypass roads in border areas wherever required, to ease daily movement for residents.
On the education front, the Chief Minister reiterated that education remains a top priority for the Government. He informed that a Science and Commerce College has already begun functioning in the area, recruitment has been completed, and urged students and parents to enrol from the current academic year. He added that across the State, continuous efforts are being made to strengthen schools and colleges and upgrade educational infrastructure to improve access and learning outcomes.
The Chief Minister also drew attention to the situation in Bangladesh, noting that ongoing challenges there have a direct impact on border communities. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and called for close cooperation with the administration by sharing relevant information with the police and other agencies, stressing that public cooperation is essential to maintain peace and security.
Highlighting the Government’s focus on entrepreneurship and local enterprise, the Chief Minister cited initiatives such as Awang Chips, Nokma Ice Cream and similar ventures as examples of how local talent and resources can be transformed into sustainable businesses that generate income and employment.
He said that connectivity remains a key focus to enhance trade and mobility, and reiterated the Government’s long-term vision of developing the region into a hub of economic and industrial activity.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to holistic development through improved healthcare, better roads, quality education, strengthened security and sustained support for entrepreneurship.
He expressed confidence that with the cooperation of the people, the region would move towards a healthier, more prosperous and secure future.
Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address by the Deputy Commissioner, South West Garo Hills, Anendya Raajshree, who described the occasion as a proud and significant milestone for the district. She noted that the proposed hospital would play a crucial role in providing accessible, holistic and affordable healthcare services, while also promoting traditional systems of medicine under AYUSH. She conveyed her best wishes for the timely completion of the project.
In her keynote address, the SDMHO, South West Garo Hills, Dr Lydia Marak, highlighted emerging lifestyle-related health challenges in the district and emphasised the importance of AYUSH systems in preventive and holistic healthcare. She described the hospital as not only a treatment centre, but also a wellness and awareness hub, and urged active community participation to ensure its success.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the In-charge DMCHO, South West Garo Hills, Dr Noreen Sangma.
