Meghalaya CM unveils blockchain, IoT plans at Emerging Tech Workshop

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 24, 2025

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today virtually inaugurated the two-day Workshop on Emerging Technologies at the State Convention Centre, Shillong, laying out a transformative roadmap for Meghalaya’s digital future.

Organized by the Department of Information Technology & Communications (IT&C), Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), the workshop brings together key policymakers, domain experts, and stakeholders from across the country.

In his keynote address, the Chief Minister emphasized the growing role of technology in governance, describing it as a powerful tool to solve real-world challenges and improve public service delivery. He cited the success of Meghalaya’s e-Proposal and digital file movement systems under the Meghalaya Enterprise Architecture (MeghEA), which have enabled seamless decision-making—even remotely from a mobile device. “We’ve moved from paper files to digital governance in real-time. Technology is no longer a support system—it is now a driving force in public administration,” said the Chief Minister.

He highlighted major strides made through technology, including a nearly 50% reduction in maternal mortality, achieved by digitally tracking and supporting high-risk pregnancies. He also announced the rollout of IoT sensors in 70,000 water springs to collect real-time data, aiding water conservation and resource planning efforts.

Another landmark initiative announced was the introduction of a blockchain-based employee data and promotion tracking system, starting with the police department. This, he said, would streamline processes, minimize delays, and enhance transparency in government personnel management.

Referring to a recent study tour to Japan, Sangma shared plans to introduce AI and robotics-based greenhouse farming in Meghalaya, particularly for high-value crops like strawberries and lettuce. He also spoke of leveraging Augmented and Virtual Reality in the tourism sector to deliver immersive digital experiences and global visibility to Meghalaya’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to making Meghalaya the IT and digital services hub of the Northeast, he spoke of upcoming infrastructure developments such as the expansion of Shillong Tech Parks, the construction of five-star hotels, improved airport connectivity with larger aircraft expected by 2026, and the extension of fiber-optic networks to support the digital ecosystem. He called for stronger collaboration with institutions like NeGD and IndiaAI to ensure inclusive technological growth that reaches every corner of the state—from urban centers to remote villages.

Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang, in his address, praised the state’s rapid digital transition, noting the impact of e-file systems in streamlining government operations. He shared how digital dashboards have replaced bulky paper files, enabling decision-making on the go. Wahlang also highlighted the State Government’s Drone Technology Lab, which is now used in high-resolution mapping for sectors such as mining, forestry, and tourism, along with the integration of Virtual Reality in legal education at the National Law University in Shillong. He stressed the importance of building an inclusive digital ecosystem, pointing to the upcoming integration of Khasi and Garo languages into the AI-powered Bhashini platform.

Speaking virtually, Nand Kumaram, President and CEO of NeGD, emphasized the need to move from pilot projects to scalable, product-driven technology adoption. He urged departments to develop a startup-like mindset, reform procurement processes, and invest in upskilling teams. Kumaram also cited successful initiatives like Rajasthan’s IT Cadre model and national programs such as Bhashini and IndiaAI as examples to emulate.

Also present at the inaugural session were Pravin Bakshi, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, IT&C; Idashisha Nongrang, IPS, Director General of Police; R.S. Gill, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force; K.L. Nongbri, Joint Secretary, IT&C Department; and Dinesh Didel, Director – Technology Management, NeGD.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from senior officials across various government departments, the National Informatics Centre (NIC), the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), academic institutions such as IIM Shillong, NIT Meghalaya, and North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), along with representatives from startups and civil society organizations.

The two-day workshop will feature a series of technical sessions focusing on Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, UX in Governance, and Public Digital Infrastructure. It aims to strengthen the understanding and implementation of emerging technologies in alignment with the Digital Meghalaya vision and national missions such as Digital India and IndiaAI.