Shillong, Jan 29: Meghalaya has requested the Centre to continue and strengthen the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and a dedicated SASCI sub-allocation for smaller North-Eastern States to sustain capital-led growth in the region.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma sought the latter’s intervention for continuation and strengthening of SASCI, with a national outlay of at least Rs 2 lakh crore, in the coming year.
Stating that continuation of SASCI would help sustain capital-led growth and build on the momentum achieved by States, he also requested for a dedicated SASCI sub-allocation for smaller states of the North East, excluding Assam.
“The smaller NER States receive 100% of their Part I allocation in SASCI over their normative allocation. The State requests that it should be made 200-300% for smaller NER States for the next few years,” he said.
SASCI has become a key driver for State-level capital expenditure, using normative and performance-linked allocations to spur reforms, timely execution, and improve fund utilization – enabling States, especially in the NER to build quality infrastructure, create jobs, and sustain economic growth.
“Meghalaya has leveraged SASCI effectively, with allocations rising from Rs 200 crore in FY21 to Rs 2,370 crore in FY25. The funds have supported priority investments across roads, water supply, power, urban development, tourism, digital libraries, and women-centric facilities – driving high multiplier effects and tangible improvements in connectivity and service delivery,” Sangma said.
Stating that SASCI has played a key role in upgrading Meghalaya’s infrastructure and improving lives, he said, “Over ₹2,000 crore has enhanced road connectivity, boosting mobility and economic integration. Water security has been strengthened with Rs 900 crore for major urban water supply schemes, while Rs 125 crore has improved power reliability through the Ganol Hydroelectric Project and substations. Urban growth is being driven by New Shillong City infrastructure, Rs 131 crore for an iconic tourist centre, and Rs 162 crore for digital libraries.”
Sangma further underscored that complemented by social initiatives such as working women hostels, these investments are accelerating inclusive and sustainable growth in Meghalaya.
