When basic needs are met, people aspire for more…and this is exactly what we are witnessing across the state.- Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister
Shillong, Dec 9: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has noted an evolution in community demands in Meghalaya from basic needs to living a quality life.
The public expectations have shifted from demands for basic amenities like roads and water supply to aspirations for higher educational facilities, advanced infrastructure, and improved quality of life, he said while the foundation laying ceremony for Rymbai Government Higher Secondary School in East Jaintia Hills on Monday.
This evolution in community demands is a clear indicator of rising standards of living and the transformative progress under way in Meghalaya, he said.
“When basic needs are met, people aspire for more…and this is exactly what we are witnessing across the state,” he asserted, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustaining this upward momentum.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui and Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla also attended the programme.
The Chief Minister recalled his first visit to Rymbai after assuming office in 2020, noting the poor road condition, stalled water supply scheme, and limited infrastructure at the time. He expressed satisfaction at the visible improvements in roads, water availability, and the school’s development.
“Though the journey ahead is long, the transformation has begun. Meghalaya is finally moving in the direction we have envisioned,” he said, acknowledging the challenges faced since 2018, financial constraints, low departmental capacity, and inadequate infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also appreciated a special song presented by a local youth, noting its message of gratitude and humility. He praised the unity and collective spirit of Rymbai village, calling it a key reason for its steady progress.
“Rymbai has always been united and focused on development. The leadership of the village, traditional heads, church leaders, and youth organisations, deserves appreciation,” he stated.
The school and community presented various memorandums related to infrastructure, upgradation of the higher secondary section, and introduction of new academic streams.
The Chief Minister assured that all proposals will be actively examined. He confirmed that discussions have already begun on the requirement of additional classrooms for the Higher Secondary School and acknowledged the demand for introducing Science and Commerce Streams.
Addressing the students, the Chief Minister urged them to make the best use of the opportunities available to them, study with discipline, and remain humble. He reminded them that many children in other parts of the state do not have access to such facilities.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, the Chief Minister said the transformational work in Rymbai and across Meghalaya will continue with renewed focus.
Others who attended included senior officials including the Director of School Education & Literacy, the Deputy Commissioner, SP, and representatives of various traditional institutions and village bodies.
School bus to Khliehriat HS School
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister handed over a school bus, funded under Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund to Khliehriat Higher Secondary School.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister briefly interacted with the students, who asked him questions on education scenario in the state, drug abuse and trafficking, his personal mantra on handling criticism and also raised the need of having digital libraries.
