Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda released the poll manifesto for the Meghalaya Assembly elections.
Elaborating on the manifesto titled 'Empower Meghalaya', Nadda said the 'M' in its name signifies "Modi for Meghalaya". He also said that the manifesto is the BJP’s blueprint for a ‘Mega Meghalaya’ based on aspects of speed, scale and skill.
Speaking at the unveiling of the party's poll pledges in Shillong on Wednesday, the BJP national president said the potential of Meghalaya, which is rich in culture and tradition, hasn't been suitably harnessed and utilized till date.
JP Nadda said there is a lot to be done in the state as there is plenty of scope for development.
Nadda said, "Corruption is also a major issue, which has posed a hindrance to the development of Meghalaya. The BJP wants to work towards a corruption-free Meghalaya by delivering strong governance which can only be created by a strong BJP government.”
"We need to raise visions of Mega Meghalaya, we have to think big. Speed, scale and skill, all have to come together if we are to take Meghalaya to its promised state," the BJP national president said.
While stressing the importance of the state machinery in bringing these changes, he said it is also important for the people to be content with the administration.
"To ensure that this happens, we have promised in our manifesto to implement the 7th Pay Commission in Meghalaya and disburse salaries on time," Nadda added.
The BJP will enhance the benefit under the Centre's flagship 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' scheme by adding Rs 2,000 to the already allocated amount of Rs 6,000 annually.
Further, Special Economic Zones will be established for the empowerment of youth and many industrial units will be set up in the state to generate employment opportunities, he added.
A scheme to provide annual financial assistance of Rs 3,000 to landless farmers and an annual grant of Rs 6,000 for fishermen will also be implemented, if the BJP comes to power, Nadda said.
A Special Task Force, under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge, will also be formed to investigate all corruption cases in the state, Nadda said.
He added that the BJP will make Meghalaya a 'peaceful, developed, and prosperous' state.
Meghalaya will go to polls on February 27 along with Nagaland. The counting of votes will be done on March 2.
(with input sfrom ANI)
