Shillong, Nov 3: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday inaugurated the renovated State Central Library and the House of Ryndia in Shillong, pitching culture and knowledge as key drivers of the state’s development model.
Speaking at the programme, which also included the state-level Living Heritage Arts & Craft Village Festival, the Chief Minister said the three initiatives were connected—preservation of living heritage, wider public access to knowledge, and stronger market linkages for traditional textile producers.
Outlining the state’s growth model, Sangma said it rests on three pillars, infrastructure development through capital investment in roads, schools, hospitals and sports facilities; personal development to ensure infrastructure translates into better livelihoods for farmers and entrepreneurs; and tradition, emphasising identity and culture.
On tourism, he said the government aims to move beyond established destinations like Sohra, Mawlynnong and Dawki by building new brands around 11 specific locations, converting sectors like sports, music, textiles and handicrafts into viable economies.
He said the renovated library has been modernised to make libraries “cool” for youth, with better amenities including local coffee, tea and snacks to encourage reading without mobile devices. He urged parents and teachers to inculcate reading habits in children.
The State Central Library, established on January 19, 1974, is Meghalaya’s apex public library with over 2 lakh volumes and 31,000 registered members. It issues around 200 books daily.
The renovation, supported with Rs 2.23 crore under the National Mission on Libraries, includes improved reading facilities, archive sections, a children’s reading area and a dedicated Knowledge Corner for aspirants preparing for national competitive examinations.
The House of Ryndia provides a dedicated platform to showcase Meghalaya’s indigenous textiles and improve their visibility and market linkages.
