Meghalaya makes Khasi and Garo compulsory up to Class 1, revises SSA teacher pay

The Meghalaya government has cleared a set of education, health, and governance decisions, including a move to introduce compulsory instruction in Khasi and Garo for children up to Class 1 as part of a revised early learning curriculum.

The decision, approved by the state cabinet, makes the two indigenous languages mandatory in the foundational stage to strengthen cultural grounding and early comprehension among young learners.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said early exposure to mother tongues plays a critical role in child development.

“Children must grow with confidence and a sense of belonging. Learning our own languages early helps that,” he said.

Officials said the newly developed textbooks will be offered on an optional basis in the upcoming academic year, as many schools have already finalized their syllabi. The language component will become compulsory from the following session.

The revised curriculum applies from preschool to Class 1 and emphasizes basic learning skills, values education, and an introduction to Meghalaya’s history and traditions.

The cabinet also addressed long-pending demands from teachers by approving a revised pay structure for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and ad hoc teachers.

The chief minister said the decision acknowledges their role in the education system and is expected to improve stability in schools. Officials said the revised pay scales will be rolled out in phases.

In the health sector, the cabinet approved a five-year Mission Mode HIV/AIDS program with a budget of ₹25 crore.

The initiative will focus on awareness campaigns, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups, alongside support for community-based organizations.

The state also amended the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws, 2021, making green building certification mandatory for large construction projects to promote sustainable development and reduce environmental impact.

Former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice S Vaidyanathan was appointed chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission, filling a post that had remained vacant for an extended period.

To support livelihoods and local enterprises, the cabinet approved the formation of the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Investment Financing Cooperative Society Ltd.

The body will provide financial assistance to cooperative groups, agricultural ventures, and food processing units.

In addition, a National Games Secretariat Society was cleared to oversee preparations for the 39th National Games, which Meghalaya is set to host.

Officials said the decisions taken during the cabinet meeting will be implemented in stages, with several measures linked to the next academic and financial cycles.