SHILLONG, SEPT 4: The Meghalaya government has decided to set up the first ever – ‘Meghalaya Ecological-Battalion’ to improve the ecological balance and environment in the state besides reemploying ex-servicemen.
Chief minister Mukul Sangma told reporters after the meeting of the 18th Rajya Sainik Board on Wednesday ,“Raising of the ecological-battalion is quite relevant for Meghalaya on the need to preserve and conserve the ecological balance of the environment.”
Sangma informed that the battalion will consist of over 1800 men and the total estimated of Rs 70-80 crore is required for the setting up of the battalion. He said, “We are working out on the matter.”
Sangma, who is also the president of the Sainik Board, said, “The exercise is part to rehabilitate or re-employ the ex-servicemen.”
The Rajya Sainik Board secretary Brig William Sturgeon said this is the only battalion which will be funded by the state government and the members will be deployed to the different parts of the state including Sohra and Jaintia hills district to restore the ecological balance by planting as many trees as possible.
According Sturgeon with such battalion in place it will further look into the promotion and security aspects of tourism in the state. He also said their role will also be extended to the requirement of the state in counter insurgency and other aspects.
During the meeting, various issues relating to the problems of the ex-servicemen and widow were also discussed.
Meanwhile, the state government has also decided to set up the Zila Board Schools in West Garo hills and East Khasi hills districts. “We have decided to set up two Zila Board Schools, one in Tura and the other in Shillong at an estimated cost of Rs 4.2 crore,” Sangma said.
Sangma informed that the government is working out on the modalities and preparing detail report projects.- By Our Reporter
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