Sangma vs Sangma: Meghalaya Chief Minister faces wife's questions in Assembly; video goes viral

Mehtab Sangma sought clarity on the progress of a veterinary college, two fishery colleges and a dairy college first proposed by the cabinet in 2022.

The Meghalaya Assembly, on Tuesday, witnessed a rare husband-wife dialogue, as NPP MLA Mehtab Chandee A Sangma questioned the state's Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on delayed projects related to livestock education, which prompted assurances from the Chief Minister on the updates that will follow.

The exchange drew attention as one of the instances showcasing healthy debate between a husband-wife legislator duo, where policy matters were a central focus during the Assembly proceedings.

The exchange, many calling it an example of democratic professionalism, received praises as it seemed the duo respecting their duty as the proceedings took place keeping accountability at the core.

In the House, the NPP MLA requested updates on the progress of two fishery colleges, one veterinary and one dairy college which was proposed by the cabinet in 2022, while also raising manpower shortages in veterinary training centres across Meghalaya.

On behalf of the government, the chief minister responded that the institutions were planned to strengthen the livestock sector.

"These were the three colleges which we have decided because of the urgent need, keeping in mind that a large population of the state is engaged in livestock rearing," he said.

He recognised concerns over gaps in staffing, saying, "It is definitely a matter of concern. Steps are being taken to ensure the manpower shortage is filled up at the earliest." He added that filling vacancies would be treated as a priority.

Sangma said, on delays in preparing the detailed project reports (DPRs), that the process had taken time due to land identification and planning manpower requirements.

"We have concerns as the financial requirement is quite large," he informed, assuring the House that steps would be taken to fast-track the process.

Around 800 acres have been identified at Kyrdemkulai in Ri-Bhoi for the proposed veterinary college, which is estimated to cost about Rs 334 crore and include 19 departments.