Shillong: Eight new ministers were sworn into the Conrad Sangma-led MDA 2.0 government on September 16 following a cabinet reshuffle, including Methodius Dkhar, MLA of Mawshynrut constituency in West Khasi Hills.
Speaking to EastMojo after the ceremony, Dkhar expressed gratitude to his party, the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP), and his supporters for the opportunity.
“It has been decades since Mawshynrut had a minister. I hope this will inspire and uplift the people of the area and West Khasi Hills as a whole,” he said.
Highlighting key challenges in his constituency, Dkhar pointed to poor road connectivity, inadequate health facilities, and insufficient education infrastructure. He noted that many villages remain isolated, making access to healthcare and schools difficult.
“People have to travel long distances even for minor health issues. We also do not have a college in the civil sub-division, which covers more than 350 villages. Improving schools and health infrastructure will be a priority,” he added.
Addressing perceptions of backwardness, Dkhar disagreed, citing Mawshynrut’s strategic location bordering Assam and Bangladesh, as well as its tourism and mineral resources.
“Our people are broad-minded and hardworking. If anyone still calls Mawshynrut backward, I invite them to visit and see for themselves,” he said.