Shillong, Dec 9: In a series of significant decisions, the Meghalaya Cabinet today approved key reforms across the health, land administration, and judicial sectors, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced.
221 Bonded Nurses, Paramedics Officially Recognised
The Cabinet confirmed and formally recognised the appointments of 221 bonded nurses and bonded paramedic staff who were recruited between 2008 and 2012.
Earlier, appointments made after 2007 that were considered ad hoc and not in line with proper procedures were to be re-advertised. Bonded nurses were initially listed among these.
However, after detailed discussions with the Health Department, consultations with the affected personnel, and thorough examination of all documentation, the Cabinet established that the appointments did follow the required procedures.
Their appointments have now been validated, and fresh recruitment for those posts will no longer be necessary.
Simplified Lease Land Renewal Process Approved
In another major reform, the Cabinet approved the regularisation of excess areas on government lease lands, many of which were allotted decades ago in and around Shillong.
Previously, the renewal process involved cumbersome documentation and repeated file movement to government offices, causing long delays.
To streamline the system, the Cabinet has now delegated most powers for processing renewals to the Deputy Commissioners, ensuring faster decisions and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic steps.
The new mechanism is expected to make the process easier, smoother, and more efficient for citizens.
Amendments to Judicial Service Rules Cleared
The Cabinet also approved amendments to the Meghalaya Judicial Service Rules, 2006, and the Meghalaya Higher Judicial Service Rules, 2015, based on recommendations from the judiciary.
Key changes include revised examination procedures, updates to syllabus structure, modifications to direct recruitment processes, and adjustments in the percentage of direct recruitment.
Importantly, the Cabinet also approved the judiciary’s recommendation to make knowledge of a local language - Khasi or Garo - mandatory for candidates.
All recommendations have been incorporated to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and local relevance in judicial appointments.
