Shillong, February 24 – Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma firmly dismissed allegations of opacity in the implementation of the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSD Fund) during the ongoing budget session of the state assembly. Addressing a cut motion, Sangma emphasized that the scheme is driven purely by public interest and has reached nearly every corner of the state.
Acknowledging concerns raised by MLAs, the Chief Minister underscored the fund’s commitment to transparency and democratic accessibility. ‘Political affiliations play no role in fund allocation,’ he asserted. Projects are approved strictly based on merit and necessity, ensuring equitable development across districts.
Sangma highlighted real-world impact, noting, ‘You can ask any beneficiary of the CMSD Fund. It has touched lives in villages and towns alike because it’s executed with utmost integrity.’ He urged legislators not to view the initiative with suspicion but to recognize its widespread benefits.
Detailing eligibility, each MLA can recommend projects worth up to Rs 10 lakh per financial year, though participation is voluntary. Responding to specific grievances from Mawlai MLA Bright Star Wel Marbaniang, Sangma promised a thorough investigation.
The CM defended recent reforms, explaining that previous systems caused procedural delays due to urban-rural fund divisions. ‘We’ve streamlined the process for faster approvals,’ he said. Financially, the full Rs 50 crore allocated for 2025-26 has been utilized, with West Garo Hills receiving Rs 13.6 crore, East Khasi Hills Rs 12.88 crore, and others proportionally distributed.
Open to MLAs, gram panchayats, NGOs, and individuals, applications can be directly submitted to the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. This inclusive approach has made CMSD Fund one of Meghalaya’s most expansive development programs, fostering grassroots progress without partisan bias.