Meghalaya cabinet clears land for New Shillong corridor, Group D posts, fiscal changes

Guwahati: The Meghalaya Cabinet on Friday approved acquiring more land at Tynring in New Shillong Township to develop a corridor connecting the Administrative City and Knowledge City.

Government spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla said the plan includes acquiring an additional 35 acres to relocate the Central Jail to New Shillong.

He described it as an important step for the expansion of New Shillong, ensuring better connectivity between the two city zones.

The Cabinet also approved changes to Rule 6(D) of the Meghalaya Ministerial District Establishment Service Rules, 2017.

The amendment allows 50% of Group D posts to be filled from Regular Casual Workers (RCWs).

Shylla explained that earlier confusion arose because two Office Memorandums (OMs) from 1996 recommended filling 50% of Group D posts from RCWs, while a 2017 OM required direct recruitment for all posts.

The Cabinet has now clarified that the 1996 guideline will be followed.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved an amendment to the Meghalaya Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act, 2006.

Following Government of India guidelines, this allows the state to raise its fiscal deficit limit from 3% to 3.5% of GSDP, enabling additional borrowing.

The Cabinet also approved the reappointment of the President and Members of the Meghalaya State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.

Justice (retired) Shivaji Pandey, whose term ends on 6 December 2025, will be reappointed as President for another four-year term, subject to the age limit of 67. Major (retired) Ynsambyntalang Nongsiej, Rupa Paul Choudhury, N.F. Kharshiing, and Bijoy A Sangma were approved as Members.

Finally, the Cabinet approved the Service Rules for the Commission, allowing it to establish its own recruitment board to hire staff.