Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday announced a series of welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of construction workers across the state, marking the occasion of International Workers’ Day with what he described as a major push towards social security and inclusive development.
In a post shared on X, the Chief Minister said the state government was recognising the contribution of workers who “build our homes, our roads, and our future,” while unveiling several new schemes designed to provide financial assistance, employment support, education access, and social protection for labourers and their families.
Among the key initiatives launched is “CM LIGHT,” a direct benefit support programme under which eligible construction workers will receive financial assistance of ₹5,000. The scheme aims to provide immediate economic support to workers and help ease financial hardships faced by many labour families.
The government also introduced the “Startup Toolkit Support Scheme,” intended to empower skilled workers by providing professional tools and equipment for self-employment opportunities. Officials said the initiative is expected to encourage entrepreneurship among workers and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Another major programme announced is “ENABLE,” which focuses on improving educational access for children of construction workers. Under the scheme, reserved seats and complete fee waivers will be provided to ensure children from labour families can continue their studies without financial barriers.
To strengthen infrastructure in labour-populated areas, the state launched “BUILD,” a scheme aimed at investing in community facilities and improving living conditions in worker settlements.
In a move towards digital accessibility, the government also unveiled the “Digital Labour Chowk App,” a one-stop platform that will help workers access welfare schemes, employment opportunities, and other labour-related services more efficiently.
Additionally, the Meghalaya government announced the extension of central social security schemes including Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana for construction workers, with insurance premiums to be borne by the Labour Board.
Chief Minister Sangma stated that the initiatives reaffirm the government’s commitment to the dignity of labour and inclusive growth. He added that the welfare measures are intended to ensure that every worker and their family can move forward with greater security, opportunity, and social protection.
The announcement has drawn attention as one of the state’s most comprehensive welfare packages focused on construction workers, a sector that forms a significant part of Meghalaya’s workforce and infrastructure development efforts.
