Shillong, October 17, 2025: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday underscored his government’s commitment to deep administrative reforms and institutional strengthening, revealing that he has been persistently pursuing with the Centre since 2019 for the creation of a separate Meghalaya IAS cadre.
Addressing a packed gathering of officers at the Annual Conference of the Meghalaya Civil Service Officers’ Association (MCSOA) at the State Convention Centre in Shillong, the Chief Minister delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking address that centred on leadership, accountability, and purpose in public service.
Calling for both political will and administrative courage to drive genuine transformation, Sangma said, “India will truly begin to change when politicians learn to say ‘no’ and officers learn to say ‘yes’.” His words drew loud applause, setting the tone for an address that blended motivation, reform, and vision for Meghalaya’s governance future.
Commending the dedication of Meghalaya Civil Service (MCS) officers, the Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s resolve to strengthen the State’s administrative machinery and foster a service-driven ethos. “At the end of the day, we are all working for the same goal — to serve the people of our State. No work, policy, or decision is meaningful unless we remind ourselves that our purpose is to make a positive difference in people’s lives,” he said.
Encouraging officers to remain grounded in empathy and integrity, Sangma reminded them that while “positions and ranks will change, the purpose must remain constant.” He said governance must be driven by initiative, sensitivity, and accountability, urging officers to see themselves not merely as administrators but as enablers of change.
Highlighting ongoing administrative reforms, Sangma reiterated his efforts toward establishing a separate Meghalaya IAS cadre. “I have been pursuing the creation of a separate Meghalaya cadre since 2019, and I am hopeful this will soon be achieved. Reforms for the MCS are a priority, just as they are for other services,” he stated.
He also called for enhanced exposure and learning opportunities for officers through advanced training and exchange programmes to deepen their understanding of governance and innovation both in India and abroad. Expressing optimism about the State’s growth trajectory, he noted that Meghalaya is now the second fastest-growing economy in the country, registering over 10% growth and projected to touch 12–14% in the coming years. “That growth story belongs to all of us,” he added.
Commissioner and Secretary Cyril V. Diengdoh, addressing the gathering, acknowledged the pivotal role of MCS officers serving as frontline administrators in key positions such as Sub-Divisional Officers, Block Development Officers, Additional Deputy Commissioners, and Secretaries. He assured that the Government is actively working to improve facilities, including housing in Shillong, and has communicated with the UPSC and the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to conduct IAS cadre promotions twice a year.
Diengdoh further informed that the Government has ensured continuity in MCS recruitment and expanded capacity-building programmes, including overseas induction training and forthcoming mid-career training sessions aimed at preparing officers for higher responsibilities and policy-level decision-making.
Delivering the keynote address, MCSOA President Ashish M. Sangma welcomed the Chief Minister and acknowledged his sustained support for the association. Urging officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and compassion, he said, “The true measure of an officer’s service lies in the satisfaction of those they serve.”
He proposed key reforms including recognition of the Meghalaya Civil Service as the premier State service, appointment of MCS officers as Deputy Commissioners in select districts, timely promotions, reduction of qualifying years for elevation, and revision of the retirement age from 58 to 60 years.
He also lauded the Government’s decision to regularise contractual posts, calling it a humane and progressive step that has brought relief to numerous families across the State.
Among those present were Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills R. M. Kurbah, Deputy Secretary in the Chief Minister’s Secretariat Alexander S. Mukhim, and other senior officials. The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by B. J. Kharshandi, Director of School Education and Literacy, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, dignitaries, and all MCS officers for their active participation and continued dedication to the service of the State.
