Meghalaya Declares Chocolate Mahseer as State Fish Amid Cabinet Approvals

Cabinet Decisions in Meghalaya

Shillong, May 6: On Tuesday, the Meghalaya cabinet officially designated the chocolate mahseer as the state fish, as announced by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.

In addition, the cabinet approved several proposals, including a revised water supply project for New Shillong Township, now estimated at Rs 770 crore.

The chocolate mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis), referred to as 'Khasaw' in Khasi and 'Na-rang' in Garo, has been chosen to promote conservation efforts for this indigenous species found in local rivers.

Sangma highlighted that Meghalaya previously lacked an official state fish, and this decision underscores the ecological significance of the species and the necessity for its protection.

He emphasized that this initiative would not only safeguard the indigenous fish but also raise awareness about the importance of preserving aquatic biodiversity in the region.

Furthermore, the cabinet approved the revised cost for the New Shillong Township Water Supply Scheme (phase 1), increasing the budget from Rs 553 crore to Rs 770 crore due to the relocation of the dam site and additional infrastructure needs.

In another significant move, amendments to the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws, 2021, were approved to facilitate large-scale development and make eligibility criteria more accessible.

The minimum plot size requirement has been reduced from 50,000 sq ft to 37,500 sq ft, and the built-up area requirement has been lowered from 20,000 sq ft to 15,000 sq ft, allowing more landowners to engage in development projects.

The cabinet also sanctioned the establishment of land banks in East Garo Hills and North Garo Hills to support future infrastructure and development projects, with plans to acquire 93.59 acres in East Garo Hills for Rs 7 crore and 26 acres in North Garo Hills for Rs 3.9 crore.

Additionally, revised norms for cost escalation in sports infrastructure projects were approved, stipulating that any increase exceeding 25 percent must be presented to the cabinet for approval. The cost for the indoor stadium at Jongksha has been adjusted from Rs 22.75 crore to Rs 35.40 crore due to changes in location and project scope for the upcoming National Games.

Among other decisions, the cabinet regularized 98 ad hoc employees who were appointed before December 31, 2007 (third batch) and amended the Assam Excise Rules, 1945, increasing the import pass fee on extra neutral alcohol from Rs 25 to Rs 30 per bulk litre.

Further amendments were made to transit rules under the Meghalaya Forest Regulation, 1973, service rules for officials of the Meghalaya Drugs Testing Laboratory, and the extension of service for several senior officials.