Meghalaya govt spent over Rs 22.56 cr on consultants

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Sept 22: The Meghalaya government has spent over Rs 22.56 crore for 124 consultants appointed for different departments.

Replying to a query raised by AITC Ampati MLA Miani D Shira in the Assembly, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said that the total number of consultants currently appointed specifically for externally aided projects is 59.

He said the consultants are technical experts, who are brought into the system on a task basis. They are engaged mainly for the centrally sponsored schemes (CSS) and externally aided projects (EAPs).

In both categories, the consultants are mandated by the guidelines.

He said there are certain cases where the consultants are also empanelled and they can be used by the different departments.

Citing the Unity Mall project as an example, the Chief Minister said Rs 130 crore was sanctioned for Meghalaya.

“We are only 3 states in the country that have been able to do it within 6 months. This is because we are able to get expert advice,” he said adding “The government of India and EAPs have mandated the services of the consultants which are very highly technical.”

He said the cost for payment to the consultants has been incorporated within the project cost.

Further, the chief minister said local people are benefiting as they are engaged and trained by consultants.

AIM against gambling in melas

The Awakening Indian Movement (AIM) has sought the intervention of the deputy commissioner of East Khasi Hills district to ensure a blanket ban on gambling at melas being organized by different agencies.

Speaking to media persons, chairman of AIM Bansharai Marbaniang said that many people from other part of the country come to Meghalaya to host various kinds of melas, however these melas have games that encourage gambling with money which is detrimental and have a negative impact on the welfare of the people.

Marbaniang alleged that melas throughout the country are being held in order to provide entertainment to all citizens where they can experience happiness especially for children, students, and youth but at present melas in Meghalaya are being held with gambling which have detrimental and a negative impact on the welfare of the people.

“During our visit to the mela held at the Parking Lot outside Polo Ground in Shillong, the mela hosted various gambling activities with money and young people and students in uniform participated in various gambling games” said Marbaniang.

Marbaniang said that AIM is not against organizing melas in the state, however it stands against the act of gambling that is being held at the venues hence the AIM sought the intervention into this matter.