Shillong March 23: In a significant leap forward for food and water safety in the state, the State Food Testing Laboratory, under the Commissionerate of Food Safety, Meghalaya, launched two state-of-the-art analytical instruments – Automated Water Analyser and GC-FID (Gas Chromatograph with Flame Ionization Detector) during its 2nd Technical Session held on March 23, 2026, at the Conference Hall, State Food Testing Laboratory, Pasteur Hills, Lawmali, Shillong. The launch marked a pivotal moment in the state’s efforts to build a robust food safety ecosystem driven by science and technology.
Shri. WailadmikiShylla, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and formally unveiled the new equipment. The event was also attended by Dr.Sampath Kumar, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, as the Guest of Honour, and Smiti. Rosetta M Kurbah, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, as the Special Guest.
The Automated Water Analyser will facilitate rapid and comprehensive testing of water quality, addressing a critical need for safe drinking water across the state. The GC-FID, a high-precision instrument will strengthen the laboratory’s capacity to detect organic compounds, including fatty acid composition, flavour analysis, andABV (alcohol by volume) testing, ensuring stricter quality control.
The technical session, themed “Strengthening Food Safety Ecosystem through Science & Awareness,” brought together policymakers, scientists, food safety officers, and stakeholders for in-depth deliberations on the role of innovation, scientific advancement, and public awareness in ensuring food safety across Meghalaya.
The successful event reaffirmed the State Food Testing Laboratory’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of food and water safety for the people of Meghalaya.
