Sangma opens multi-facility centre in Zigzag

Zikzag (WGH), Sept 11: While inaugurating the multi-facility centre and entrepreneurship information centre at Zikszag C&RD block, Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma said the Meghalaya Integrated Basin Development and Livelihood Program is a one of a kind program in the whole of the country. Under the umbrella of this flagship program various livelihood generation activities have been integrated to maximize inclusion of participants, he informed.
Addressing the gathering Sangma said that the centre would act as an information and training centre for schemes under the IBDLP and informed that the government has invested a great deal in the IBDLP. He also revealed that traditional and contemporary
techniques have been incorporated in the program to make it inclusive.
Sangma was of the opinion that through the development of horticulture and agriculture we can change the economy and livelihood opportunities of the state. According to him Rs 12.5 crores and 50 crores have been allotted as additional funds for weaving and sericulture and aquaculture respectively.
Elaborating on the varied species of flora thriving in the area, Sangma said that orchids especially Dendrobium did well in the region. He informed that the people would be imparted special training to grow Dendrobium commercially and take it up as a livelihood generation
activity. He later launched the Information Booklet on IDBLP.
West Garo Hills deputy commissioner Pravin Bakshi said that the inauguration of the multi facility centre heralded the beginning of a new era for Southwest Garo Hills. – By Our Reporter