Shillong, Sep 1: A museum arena dedicated to the life and legacy of National People’s Party (NPP) founder and former Lok Sabha Speaker Purno A Sangma on his 78th birth anniversary was put up at Williamnagar today.
The museum arena, which was inaugurated by Cabinet Minister Marcuise Marak, is an initiative to encourage the people, particularly the youth to understand the ideals and philosophy of Sangma.
The NPP also celebrated its 13th foundation day at Rongrenggre playground wherein delegates from Northeast converge to display unity of tribes.
The day-long programme began in the morning with a singing competition, followed by the release of a coffee table book and the inauguration of the P.A. Sangma photo gallery.
Wife of Late Sangma, Soradini K. Sangma paid floral tribute, which was joined by other dignitaries including NPP chief and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
During the event, over 300 new members from various political parties who had recently joined the NPP were felicitated.
In recognition of sporting talent, several athletes from East Garo Hills were honoured with the prestigious P.A. Sangma Achievers’ Award. To further acknowledge the contribution and memory of the late leader, a special felicitation was also accorded to Soradini.
Others who were felicitated included Sonelal Kol, NK Gauri and Breston Momin. They were close associate of Sangma and were instrumental in shaping the formation of the party.
Several distinguished leaders addressed the gathering, sharing memories and reflections on the life and legacy of P.A. Sangma.
Thangwang Wangham, State President of Arunachal Pradesh NPP, recalled his close association with Sangma, describing him as the true leader of the Northeast. He urged the gathering to strengthen the NPP and carry forward its mission.
Rajya Sabha MP WR Kharluki shared his experiences of working alongside Sangma and highlighted his deep concern for the welfare of people and the security personnel who stood by him.
Deputy Chief Minister Snaiwbhalang Dhar acknowledged his far-sighted vision, ideas, and legacy, which he said continues to shape the future of Meghalaya.
Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Thomas A. Sangma emphassed that Sangma’s leadership was defined by his commitment to the welfare of tribal, indigenous, and marginalized communities, adding that his contributions extended far beyond Garo Hills to the entire Northeast.
National Working President James K. Sangma expressed gratitude to leaders from different parts of the Northeast who attended the event, calling their presence a fitting tribute to the late leader.
Conrad shared personal memories of accompanying his father in organising the party in Manipur. He recounted how, despite only two people attending their initial meeting, his father’s optimism turned the moment into the foundation of a growing movement.
Describing Sangma as a man undeterred by challenges and full of positivity, Conrad stated that it was through his father’s leadership that the NPP had grown to its current stature. He noted with pride that the people of the Northeast had embraced both Sangma and his party, making it a matter of honour for the people of Garo Hills.
Conrad reflected on the meaning of his father’s name, Purno, which means “complete,” and said that his father had indeed lived a complete and meaningful life.
