Minister in-charge of the Social Welfare Department, Paul Lyngdoh, on Monday informed that the state government is seeking ₹600 crore in financial support from the Centre to strengthen and improve the overall functioning of the department.
“Certain matters will also have to be taken to the cabinet, and certain matters will have to be addressed by the five ministries handling our department here in Meghalaya,” Lyngdoh stated.
He emphasized the need for additional funding from the ministry, highlighting a projected deficit of around ₹600 crore. The Minister also underscored the importance of improving the service conditions of the department’s employees, many of whom work on a contractual basis. “A lot of them are working under difficult conditions, particularly those on night shifts. We aim to enhance facilities to help them optimize the services they provide,” The Minister added.
In his review of the women and child helplines at the Directorate of Social Welfare, Lyngdoh expressed satisfaction with the efficient functioning of these helplines. He praised the “tech-savvy young boys and girls” managing cases round the clock, with three personnel working in 8-hour shifts. He further elaborated that measures are in place for the immediate accommodation of distress callers, whether children or women, and that women police officers handle sensitive cases.
“I’m happy to note that the child helpline cell has a success rate of about 90% in resolving cases. Information from various districts is continuously updated on a dashboard, and this data will soon be integrated with my office in the Secretariat to ensure real-time updates,” Lyngdoh said.
He concluded by highlighting the dedication of the young men and women working tirelessly in the department, ensuring that vulnerable groups, such as victims of domestic violence, receive immediate support.