The Meghalaya government has decided to introduce the teaching of Khasi and Garo for children up to Class 1, marking a major shift in the state’s approach to early education with a focus on cultural identity and smoother learning in the foundational years. The move reflects an emphasis on mother-tongue instruction as a way to build confidence and improve comprehension among young learners.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the decision is anchored in the belief that a strong sense of belonging begins in early childhood. He noted that introducing children to their own languages at the start of their education helps nurture confidence and cultural awareness, laying a firm foundation for future learning.
Officials said new textbooks in Khasi and Garo will be introduced as an option in the upcoming academic year and will be made compulsory from the following session, as several schools have already finalised their syllabi. The revised curriculum for the foundational stage, spanning preschool to Class 1, will focus on ease of learning, basic values and early exposure to Meghalaya’s history and traditions.
In another significant decision, the cabinet approved a revised pay structure for teachers working under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and those on ad hoc appointments, addressing a long-standing demand. Sangma described the move as an acknowledgment of their contribution to the education system and a step towards greater stability for teachers and institutions alike.
The cabinet also cleared a five-year Mission Mode HIV/AIDS project with a financial outlay of ₹25 crore. The initiative will concentrate on awareness programmes, infrastructure development and targeted interventions to strengthen the state’s response to HIV/AIDS. Alongside this, amendments to the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws, 2021 were approved, making green building certification mandatory for large construction projects.
In key administrative appointments, former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice S. Vaidyanathan was named chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission. The cabinet further approved the formation of the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Investment Financing Cooperative Society Ltd, aimed at providing working capital and investment support to cooperative societies, agriculture and food processing sectors.
Signalling preparations for a major sporting event, the cabinet also cleared the creation of a National Games Secretariat Society to oversee arrangements for the 39th National Games. The series of decisions underline the government’s focus on education reform, social welfare, sustainable development and institutional strengthening across Meghalaya.
