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Meghalaya CM stresses on transformative power of technology in governance

Shillong, Apr 24 (UNI) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday stressed the transformative power of technology in governance, citing it as a tool to solve real-world problems and improve existing public systems.
Inaugurating a two-day ‘Workshop on Emerging Technologies’ at the State Convention Centre in Shillong, Sangma highlighted the success of Meghalaya’s e-Proposal and digital file movement systems under the Meghalaya Enterprise Architecture framework.
The workshop, organised by the Department of Information Technology & Communications (IT&C), Government of Meghalaya in collaboration with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), witnessed participation from key dignitaries and stakeholders from across the state and country.
The Chief Minister, who addressed the gathering virtually, pointed out that even while away from Shillong, he was able to seamlessly clear government files on his mobile device, demonstrating the efficacy of real-time digital governance.
Sangma said technological intervention has also helped in reducing the maternal mortality by nearly 50 percent in recent times.
“The installation Internet of Things sensors across 70,000 water springs to gather real-time data for improved water resource management,”he said, adding that the project aims to support better planning and conservation efforts.
The Chief Minister announced that Meghalaya will soon implement a blockchain-based employee data and promotion tracking system.
“The blockchain would reduce delays and enhance transparency in recruitment and career progression across government departments,” he said.
Inspired by a recent study visit to Japan, the Chief Minister also discussed cutting-edge farming models utilising robotics and AI in greenhouse farming.
He said such technologies would also be tried in the state to farm strawberries and lettuce and enhance agricultural productivity.
Sangma further said that emerging technologies such as augmented and virtual reality will also be explored in Meghalaya’s tourism sector to create immersive digital experiences and global visibility for the state’s cultural and natural heritage.
“Meghalaya government is trying different technologies in the IT sector so that it becomes the digital services hub of the region with the support of National e-Governance Division, IndiaAI, and other partners,” the Chief Minister said.
Applauding the strides made by the state in digital governance, Chief Secretary Donald Philips Wahlang highlighted the successful implementation of e-file systems that have significantly increased administrative efficiency.
He also touched upon the establishment of the State Government’s Drone Technology Lab, which is now being used for high-resolution mapping in sectors such as mining, forestry, and tourism.
The Chief Secretary commended the use of VR in legal education, citing its integration at the National Law University in Shillong.
Wahlang also emphasised the importance of building the digital ecosystem, not just in infrastructure but in local language accessibility, such as the upcoming integration of Khasi and Garo languages into the AI-powered Bhashini app.
Nand Kumaram, President and CEO of NeGD, emphasized the need for a shift from pilot projects to scalable, product-oriented technology solutions.
He urged departments to embrace a product mindset, prioritize procurement reforms, develop team capabilities, and foster a culture of learning within government organisations.
Kumaram underscored the importance of collaboration with startups and educational institutions, citing Rajasthan’s IT Cadre model and national initiatives like the Bhashini platform and AI Mission as successful case studies.
The two-day workshop will include technical sessions focusing on Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, UX in Governance, and Public Digital Infrastructure.
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