Amid mounting concerns over vacancies in the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL), Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal has assured that regular appointments will be made once the corporation’s financial condition improves. Addressing the pressing issue after a meeting with a delegation from the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP), Mondal acknowledged the prolonged shortage of personnel in MeECL but pointed to financial instability as the primary reason behind the delay in recruitment.
“As of now, we are having a lot of financial problems… and due to that, we are not going ahead immediately, but recently we had advertised some posts also. Regular appointments will be done as and when MeECL is financially sound, that has been apprised by them (FKJGP),” he stated, emphasizing that the corporation’s fiscal health remains a critical factor in determining future hiring.
Highlighting the persistent vacancies, Mondal revealed that advertisements have been issued for 67 field engineers—57 in electrical and mechanical and 10 in civil—along with 64 field supervisors, comprising 54 for electrical and mechanical and 10 for civil. He admitted that these vacancies had existed for a long time due to multiple factors but assured that the government is actively reviewing employment opportunities across departments. “The government is frequently reviewing not only MeECL but other departments also to see that employment opportunities are given to our youths. We are working on that line,” he said.
Elaborating on MeECL’s financial distress, Mondal underscored the severe revenue shortfall and mounting expenses that have hindered new appointments. “The financial health of MeECL is under tremendous strain. Revenue collection is very low compared to expenditure,” he stated. However, he pointed out that substantial progress has been made in reducing the corporation’s outstanding dues to NTPC, which initially stood at ₹664 crore. Following negotiations spearheaded by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, a rebate was secured, bringing the dues down to ₹565 crore, which is now being repaid in monthly instalments of ₹15.7 crore. “By 2026-27, I think all dues should be cleared,” he said, further confirming that MeECL continues to procure power from NTPC without any pending current dues.
As the state grapples with the challenge of strengthening its power infrastructure, Mondal stressed the need for collective efforts to improve the sector. “For the development of the power sector in our state, we have to work together,” he asserted, signaling the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis while ensuring employment opportunities in the sector once financial stability is achieved.