Shillong, July 13 — Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman concluded her four-day visit to Meghalaya on Sunday with a stop at the historic Ramakrishna Mission School in Sohra (Cherrapunji), paying homage to Swami Vivekananda and lauding the institution’s contribution to education and community development.
During her visit, the Finance Minister inaugurated and laid foundation stones for several key infrastructure and development projects across the state, amounting to a total investment of ₹1,087.81 crore. Speaking earlier at an integrated public programme at LARITI – International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture – Sitharaman praised Meghalaya’s steady progress under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
She highlighted the ₹5,400 crore allocated to Meghalaya under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, noting the state’s effective utilisation of funds. “While some states have struggled to make full use of their allocation, Meghalaya has shown exceptional capability in capital investment,” she stated.
On the final day of her visit, Sitharaman toured the vocational training centre of Ramakrishna Mission School, where she interacted with 100 women undergoing free weaving training. She applauded the initiative as a model of women’s empowerment.
Swami Anuragananda, Secretary of the Mission, acknowledged Sitharaman’s longstanding connection to the institution and her appreciation for its century-long service in education, healthcare, and social upliftment.
Marking the school’s centenary celebrations, Sitharaman planted a sapling as a tribute to its enduring legacy. She also interacted with former students, including 90-year-old Lolin Lyndem, a retired teacher, and noted the institution’s notable alumni such as B.B. Lyngdoh and G.G. Swell.
The event was also attended by Padma Shri awardee and women’s rights advocate Theilin Phanbuh, reflecting the significance of the occasion.
