Meghalayan Scientific Coal Mining Grows, With 10–11 Sites Awaiting Approval.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has announced the upcoming expansion of scientific coal mining in Meghalaya, with 10 to 11 additional sites expected to receive clearance soon. Three mines are already operational, following approval from Coal India and the Coal Ministry. While some transportation challenges remain, the shift toward regulated mining aims to enhance economic growth, ensure environmental safeguards, and align with sustainable development goals.

Meghalaya’s Minority Tribes Establish RCDC and Reaffirm Call for Independent Regional Council.

On Saturday, minority tribal leaders in Meghalaya formed the Regional Council Demand Committee (RCDC) to strengthen the push for a regional council representing indigenous minority tribes. The RCDC, led by Dr. K.C. Boro (Chairman), Ananda Koch (General Secretary), and Promod Koch (Advisory Board Chairman), aims to work closely with the Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribals Forum (MIMTF), which has submitted several memoranda to authorities advocating for this demand. The RCDC emphasizes being a public body, free of political affiliations, and represents tribes such as the Hajong, Koch, Rabha, Boro-Kachari, Mann, and Karbi. Fifty-four members attended the meeting where the RCDC was officially formed.