'Multi-pronged strategy to fight challenges on security front'

Meghalaya Governor K N Tripathi today said the state government is determined to overcome challenges on the internal security, peace and law and order fronts.
The government is facing these challenges with the adaptation of a 'multi-pronged' strategy to thwart the attempts of 'misguided elements' to cause disturbance, Tripathi said during the inaugural address of the Budget session here.
While peace settlements have been signed with those militant groups that have entered into a dialogue and designated interlocutors to negotiate with those who are inclined to have talks, the government reiterated its firm resolve to tackle 'with full might', the Governor said.

In his 25-page address, Tripathi also highlighted the importance of completion of the Indo-Bangladesh border fencing.
Urging the Centre to ratify the protocol signed with Bangladesh, Tripathi said the initiative will ensure that people on both sides were able to derive the potential socio-economic benefits that a well defined and settled border offers.
He also stated that the operationalisation of two border haats at Kalaichar and Balat has not only created new economic opportunities but has also strengthened social bonding among people along the border.

Coming to the ban on mining of coal imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the Governor maintained the strictures did have an adverse impact on the state's resources turning budget making more challenging.

"The ban imposed by the NGT has had an adverse impact on the state's resources. There has been a decline in the state's revenue," the Governor said.
He said budget making has become more challenging and development priorities require a well thought out marshalling of resources.
Tripathi said his government has improved efficiency in tax collections and plugging loopholes.
"The government has taken proactive measures to ensure that the growth momentum does not flag and resources continue to be available for completing on-going projects as well as taking up new initiatives," he said.
Stating that results are already visible in the thrust areas of the government, he said the state has rejigged its investment strategy with a clear focus on health, education, roads, irrigation and social sectors.