Amid assembly debates on the state budget, Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma categorically refuted transparency lapses in the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSD Fund). He positioned it as a flagship public service program blanketing the state in development.
Engaging with MLAs’ concerns via cut motions, Sangma affirmed the fund’s democratic ethos and clarity. ‘Decisions stem from needs, not political ties,’ he declared, citing apolitical project sanctions even in public outreach forums.
The scheme’s footprint is undeniable—query any villager or town dweller. Executed with integrity, it has bypassed corners of Meghalaya. Sangma beseeched members to embrace its merits over mistrust.
Clarifying rules, MLAs may suggest up to Rs 10 lakh in projects per year, at discretion. To Mawlai’s Bright Star Wel Marbaniang, he pledged scrutiny of flagged matters.
Recent tweaks addressed old delays from segmented funding. Streamlined now, the Rs 50 crore for 2025-26 stands exhausted across districts: West Garo Hills leads at Rs 13.6 crore, East Khasi Hills Rs 12.88 crore, Southwest Garo Hills Rs 5.1 crore, Ri Bhoi Rs 3.9 crore, East Garo Hills Rs 3.76 crore, North Garo Hills Rs 3.5 crore, East Jaintia Hills Rs 2.1 crore, West Khasi Hills Rs 1.94 crore, East West Khasi Hills Rs 1.52 crore.
Inviting proposals from MLAs, panchayats, NGOs, and citizens directly to his secretariat, Sangma’s fund model promotes participatory progress, backed by full financial disclosure.