To mark World Environment Day 2025, the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly organized a Tree Plantation Programme at the New Assembly Complex in Mawdiangdiang, reaffirming the state’s deep commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience.
The event was graced by a host of dignitaries, including Hon’ble Speaker Shri Thomas A Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma, Deputy Speaker Shri Timothy D Shira, Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Prestone Tynsong and Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar, and several cabinet ministers — Dr. M Ampareen Lyngdoh (Health), Shri Marcuise N Marak (PHE), Shri Comingone Ymbon (Food & Civil Supplies), Shri Paul Lyngdoh (Tourism), Shri Shakliar Warjri (Sports), and Shri A.T. Mondal (Power). Also in attendance were Shri Sosthenes Sohtun (Government Chief Whip), Shri Nujorki Sungoh (Deputy Chief Whip), senior Assembly officials including Commissioner & Secretary Shri Andrew Simons, Secretary Shri Malthus S Sangma, officers from the Forest Department, and representatives from other key departments.
Chief Minister Emphasizes Expanding Green Cover and Urban Cleanliness
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma detailed the government’s strides in environmental conservation:
“In the past seven years, Meghalaya has added nearly 22,000 hectares of forest cover and planted close to 2 crore saplings. Our goal is to increase this to 40,000 hectares in the next five years.”
He also outlined the progress of the innovative Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) programme:
“Under PES, financial assistance is extended directly to communities for conserving forests. Over ₹42 crore has already been disbursed, supporting the protection of 52,000 hectares. With the upgraded Green Meghalaya Plus initiative, communities can now receive up to ₹20,000 per hectare, with the aim of conserving 1 lakh hectares.”
Turning to urban environmental concerns, the Chief Minister highlighted the recently launched ‘Mission Clean Shillong 2027’, designed to improve sanitation and aesthetics in the run-up to the National Games:
“We are operating in mission mode—be it increasing manpower for garbage collection or bio-mining at the Marten landfill, where 50% of legacy waste has already been cleared. Similar interventions will be undertaken in Tura, Jowai, and other towns.”
Hon’ble Speaker Thomas A Sangma emphasized the integration of environmental responsibility in the very design of the New Assembly Complex:
“This campus is a reflection of modern architecture rooted in ecological consciousness. Every tree planted today is a promise to our future generations.”
He further called for a state wide collective movement, drawing inspiration from Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village:
“If one village can become the cleanest in Asia through community effort, the entire state can rise to that standard. Let us work toward a Meghalaya where every hill is green, every stream flows clean, and every child breathes fresh air.”
Shri R.S. Gill, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Head of Forest Force, highlighted the state’s rich tradition of community-led conservation:
“From sacred groves to living root bridges, Meghalaya is a living example of sustainable stewardship. Programmes like Green Meghalaya and Green Meghalaya Plus continue this legacy by empowering people to protect nature.”
He also acknowledged the state government’s investment in strengthening forest infrastructure:
“Support in the form of improved housing and transportation has greatly enhanced the efficiency and morale of our frontline personnel.”
Collective Commitment to a Sustainable Future
The programme concluded with all dignitaries participating in the plantation drive across the Assembly premises, reaffirming a shared commitment to safeguarding Meghalaya’s unique and vibrant natural environment for generations to come.
