SHILLONG: The Meghalaya cabinet has approved the revised administrative approval (AA) for the second IT park building at the Shillong Technology Park campus in Umsawli, New Shillong.
“The primary structure is close to completion. This revised approval will facilitate the creation of additional plug-and-play office spaces, a larger cafeteria, a modern auditorium, and centralized air-conditioning to cater to the needs of global IT and technology firms,” stated CM Conrad K Sangma after the cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
The extra work is projected to cost around Rs 36 crore, as reviewed by the planning and finance departments.
“According to the government’s revised policy, any project cost revision exceeding 25% requires cabinet approval. Thus, the proposal was submitted to the cabinet and has now received approval,” Sangma added.
The Shillong Technology Park, an initiative by the government, is located in Mawdiangdiang and its first phase is fully operational, housing several private companies.
The second phase, covering 1.8 lakh sq ft, is nearing completion to enhance Meghalaya’s digital ecosystem. The park aims to offer diverse job opportunities for the youth of Meghalaya and attract those who left the state in search of employment.
The cabinet also approved the establishment of St. Xavier’s University, operated by the Jesuits, in Meghalaya to bolster higher education in the state.
“After extensive discussions with university officials, the cabinet has allocated 50 acres of land in Mawkhanu at a concessional rate of around Rs 1 lakh per hectare,” said the CM. “This investment is crucial for the future of our youth. St. Xavier’s is a prestigious institution with a history of academic excellence, and its establishment in Meghalaya will elevate higher and technical education while creating new opportunities for students throughout the state and region,” he explained.
“This decision embodies our vision of providing world-class educational opportunities and advancing Meghalaya’s education sector to new heights,” the CM remarked.
