Shillong, Jan 21: The official Meghalaya Day 2026 celebration was held today at Baghmara to honour the founding father of the state, Captain Williamson A Sangma.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said that Baghmara has remained neglected for years, and the present government is working to create a turnaround.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui attended the official celebration.
This was the first time that the state-level celebration of Meghalaya Day was held in Baghmara.
The rendition of the State Anthem by the Khmih Choir, Shillong was the opening act of the celebration, which was followed by a rich cultural display of different tribes of the state.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma said that it was through divine blessings that the people of Meghalaya were granted their own land, their own state and their own identity.
“With confidence, determination and a strong will, we will achieve the goals we have set for ourselves,” he said.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to the leaders who spearheaded the movement for statehood through non-violent, persistent and unwavering struggle.
Recalling the period when the demand for statehood was at its peak, he noted that despite differences in tribe and community, the people were united by a shared dream and common purpose.
Expressing concern over present-day divisions, particularly on social media, he said that negativity and hatred between communities were deeply troubling.
“Sometimes I see negativity and hatred, and it makes me ask myself whether we have forgotten what our leaders stood for,” he said, adding that the elders and mothers of Meghalaya had prayed for the creation of the State and that those prayers were answered.
The CM informed that he had received a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveying warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Meghalaya on the occasion of Meghalaya Day.
He said the letter fondly recalled the late PA Sangma, Conrad’s father, and acknowledged his immense contribution to Meghalaya and the nation and that he was honoured to convey the PM’s message to the people of the state.
Acknowledging the contributions of countless individuals over the past five decades, he said that while their efforts have brought Meghalaya this far, the journey ahead remains challenging and requires continued cooperation and shared responsibility.
Speaking on development, Sangma said that Meghalaya has witnessed significant growth over the last seven to eight years, recording an average growth rate of around ten per cent over the past three years, placing it among the fastest-growing states in the country. However, he emphasised that growth figures alone do not define success.
“I have never been a big fan of foundation stones or MoUs,” he said, adding that real development must be felt by people in their everyday lives.
Referring to the CM-Connect programme, the Chief Minister said that while problems will always exist, mindset makes all the difference. “If we decide in advance that something cannot be done, then we have already failed,” he said.
He also emphasised the need for clearer planning at the district level, with defined targets and visions, stating that without direction there can be no meaningful journey. He said districts must clearly understand their role in contributing to the overall growth of the state.
Describing the decision to celebrate Meghalaya Day in South Garo Hills as deeply meaningful, the Chief Minister said the district is the home of late Captain Williamson A. Sangma, the first CM of Meghalaya and one of the principal architects of the state. He said celebrating the occasion in Baghmara was a fitting tribute to his legacy and a reaffirmation of the values on which Meghalaya was founded.
Sharing recent developments, the Chief Minister informed that the second phase of the water supply project for Baghmara, amounting to Rs 140 crore, had been cleared just a day earlier, calling it a major blessing for the people of the region. He assured that issues related to road connectivity would also be taken up.
Expressing concern over the condition of the Baghmara Civil Hospital, he said it was imperative to ensure proper facilities, hygiene, equipment and adequate manpower.
“This is a very strong commitment,” he said, adding that he would personally monitor the project, review financial requirements and ensure the hospital is upgraded to the standards of other districts.
Recalling a time when Meghalaya consistently ranked at the bottom of development indices, he said that instead of despair, the government chose to see it as an opportunity.
“Being at the bottom gave us the chance to change things,” he said, adding that despite limited resources and immense pressure, sectors such as education are already witnessing transformation.
Reaffirming his commitment, Sangma urged all citizens to be prepared for the long journey ahead and to walk forward together to make meaningful progress.
Deputy CM Prestone Tynsong said the celebration itself was historic, noting that in his entire career, this was perhaps the first time such a major official Statehood Day celebration was being held in Baghmara.
Acknowledging that South Garo Hills has long been considered one of the most backward districts of the State, he said the Government is making concerted efforts to ensure development reaches the last mile, particularly through improved connectivity and infrastructure.
Highlighting progress under the leadership of the Chief Minister, he said there is renewed hope and optimism among the people of South Garo Hills as the state marks 54 years of Statehood. He informed that road connectivity from Shillong to Baghmara is about 60 percent complete, with remaining works to be taken up shortly.
Urging citizens to remember and honour the forefathers who laid the foundation of Meghalaya, he called for unity and a positive mindset, stating that constructive criticism is welcome but negativity serves no purpose.
Meanwhile, Chief Secretary Shakil P Ahammed delivered the keynote address. Emphasising balanced growth, he said development cannot be meaningful if confined to a few regions and that what development means for Shillong must equally apply to Baghmara. Highlighting Meghalaya’s natural wealth and traditions of community-led conservation, he said the State offers valuable lessons in sustainable development and harmony with nature.
During the programme, the Meghalaya Day Awards and Governor’s Police Medals were announced in recognition of exemplary service and outstanding contributions across various fields. The Meghalaya Day Excellence Awards were also presented by the Chief Minister.
A video titled Rise Meghalaya was screened highlighting the State’s development journey.
Cultural performances featuring traditional Khasi and Garo dances were presented at various intervals, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of Meghalaya.
