Stating that the first-phase pre-project development programmes would facilitate uranium mining in the state, he dismissed apprehensions that it would lead to health hazards as voiced by organisations, including the influential Khasi Students Union (KSU).
The UCIL has agreed to earmark Rs 209 crore for the programmes, including roads, healthcare, power, drinking water and educational institutions.
The Lapang cabinet had last month decided to lease 422 sq hectare having uranium deposits in West Khasi Hills for 30 years to UCIL for the pre-project development work.
According to UCIL estimates, there could be 3,75,000 tonnes of uranium deposits in Meghalaya.