Meghalaya seeks Rs 3000 crore for development

The money will cover seven projects that have the potential to change the face of the state, says Sangma

Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma has sought a special package of Rs 3000 crore from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to support the state's flagship basin development program, construction of an assembly complex and creation of a new township to ease congestion in the state's capital.

'The money will cover seven projects that have the potential to change the face of the state,' Sangma said in a memorandum to the Prime Minister last evening.

'The Prime Minister has assured that the demands would be considered to allow the state to catch up with the rest of states in the country,' Sangma told PTI over phone.

An amount of Rs 350 crore each has been proposed for the creation of International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture and Meghalaya Legislative Assembly complex, Ganol drinking water and irrigation project and the setting up of a Shillong Township.

The special package for State Medical College at Tura in Garo Hills region at Rs 160 crore is aimed at ensuring availability of doctors and nurses in health service delivery system, the chief minister said.

He told Singh that the state was positive about ending militancy following initiation of peace talks with ANVC and GNLA.

'Peace and stability become vulnerable if development does not keep pace with aspirations,' he said.