Shillong, June 7th, 2025: Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, today, took part in a tree plantation programme by planting a Conocarpus erectus (Buttonwood) sapling at the premises of the new Assembly building located at Mawdiangdiang, New Shillong.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister emphasised that the act of planting a tree carries deep symbolic meaning—not only as a contribution to the environment but also as a powerful commitment to future generations.
Addressing officials from the Assembly, Forest Department, and various other government departments, the Chief Minister expressed heartfelt thanks to Speaker Thomas A Sangma for thoughtfully inviting them to take part in the initiative. “It’s not just about planting a tree. It is also about the moment, the timing, and the location. This makes it even more special,” he stated.
Reflecting on Meghalaya’s consistent efforts to preserve its natural resources, the Chief Minister shared that over the last five years, nearly 22,000 hectares of forest cover have been added and close to two crore saplings planted across the state. He outlined the state’s ambitious roadmap for the next five years, with a goal of adding 40,000 more hectares of green cover.
He also spotlighted the state’s flagship Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) programme, which compensates communities ₹15,000 per hectare annually to protect and preserve forested lands. “Through PES, ₹42 crore has been distributed so far, safeguarding 52,000 hectares of forests,” he noted. He further announced the launch of the Green Meghalaya Plus programme, which will offer up to ₹20,000 per hectare and aims to preserve 1 lakh hectares of forest land in partnership with local communities.
Turning his focus to civic cleanliness, the Chief Minister highlighted the state’s mission-mode preparations for the National Games 2027, which Meghalaya will host. Under the Clean Shillong Mission, he revealed, the government has already enhanced manpower in the municipal board for more frequent garbage collection and begun pipelining efforts in Marten to tackle legacy waste. “Almost 50% of Marten’s legacy waste has already been cleared. Our goal is to transform it into a beautiful garden park,” he added.
The Chief Minister called for collective participation in the clean-up efforts, stating, “This is not just a government initiative. We need everyone—leaders, officials, and citizens—to be part of this movement.” He also highlighted the government’s multi-pronged plan that includes purification systems, community engagement, and regulatory measures as part of the broader urban sanitation strategy.
Describing the plantation drive as a lasting legacy, he urged all ministers and officials to continue nurturing the trees they plant. “Let’s not just plant and forget. Let us take time to care for and watch them grow. This is our shared commitment,” he appealed.
