SHILLONG, APR 16: Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma on Friday inaugurated the Dalu Block Integrated Development Complex at Dalu C&RD Block, Barengapara, West Garo Hills, dedicating the facility to the people of the region.
Minister in charge of Border Areas Development Department, Civil Defence & Home Guards Department, and Excise Department, Brening A. Sangma, attended the programme as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, the Chief Minister highlighted the historical and strategic importance of Dalu, noting that the block was established in 1954 under the Community Development Programme and has been an integral part of the State’s development journey since its inception.
He emphasised its significance as a border block and its evolution into a vibrant economic zone driven by agriculture and cross-border trade, with a majority of the population dependent on farming and allied activities.
He also recalled that the long-standing aspiration of the people to upgrade Dalu into a sub-division was fulfilled in December 2022, marking a major milestone in the region’s administrative growth.
Emphasising governance at the grassroots, he said that block offices serve as the first point of service delivery for citizens, but many have historically functioned from rented or dilapidated buildings.
“For years, our block offices operated under constraints, yet our officers and staff continued to serve the people with dedication. I express my deep gratitude to all of them,” he said.
Highlighting the Government’s approach, he added, “If we want development to reach every household, we must strengthen governance at its foundation. Strengthening our block-level institutions is key to achieving that.”
Referring to the State’s administrative expansion, he noted that Meghalaya has grown from 24 blocks at the time of statehood to 56 C&RD blocks today, reflecting one of the most decentralised administrative frameworks in the country.
Speaking on the newly inaugurated facility, he said, “We are fortunate today to have this new infrastructure. However, this is merely a concrete building, and it is in the hands of the officers and staff to transform it into a true centre of service for the people.”
He added that the complex would function as a one-stop centre for governance and service delivery, benefiting over 12,000 households and more than 30,000 people in the block area by bringing multiple departments under one roof and improving access to schemes and grievance redressal.
Urging officials to uphold compassion in public service, he said, “People come from far-flung villages, and often they are not aware of rules and regulations, government schemes, or even how to write applications. In such situations, they need our support, guidance, and kindness.”
The Chief Minister further stated that the inauguration forms part of a broader and unprecedented investment in grassroots infrastructure across the State. “From roads and health facilities to water connections and block-level institutions, we are ensuring that development reaches every village and every household. Our focus is to strengthen the last mile, empower local institutions, and ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.
Meanwhile, Brening A. Sangma expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for sanctioning the new block office and reiterated the importance of development initiatives reaching the grassroots.
He urged citizens to actively avail themselves of various government schemes aimed at livelihood creation and economic upliftment. “I encourage the people to take full advantage of the schemes being implemented by the Government to improve livelihoods and enhance economic opportunities,” he added.
Emphasising the importance of peace for sustained development, he stated, “Peace is a prerequisite for development. Without peace, progress is disrupted, and opportunities are lost.”
Referring to recent challenges, he noted that three projects in the area, which were scheduled for completion in March, were delayed due to unrest in the Garo Hills. “I appeal to all sections of society to work together to maintain peace and stability, so that development activities can continue without disruption,” he said.
Earlier, Mary Lisa K. Marak, MCS, In-Charge Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, delivered the welcome address, while the history of Dalu Block was presented by Lehena C. Marak, Gram Sevika, Dalu C&RD Block.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by T. N. Sangma, MCS, BDO, Dalu C&RD Block, followed by a thanksgiving prayer by Rev. Cherengre D. Sangma of Dapgre Baptist Church, Dalu.
The Dalu Block Integrated Development Complex, built at a cost of ₹3 crore, is envisioned as a key component in transforming the block into a developed administrative and economic hub, with a focus on infrastructure improvement, agricultural development, and strengthening connectivity. Once fully operational, the complex is expected to enhance coordination among departments, improve the delivery of welfare schemes, and further strengthen rural governance.
The programme forms part of the Government’s broader initiative to strengthen grassroots administration and enhance public service delivery by upgrading infrastructure and improving working conditions at the block level.
By Our Reporter
