Shillong, Jan 21: Along with other parts of the state, Meghalaya Day was also celebrated in Baghmara, Amlarem and by private institutions.
In North Garo Hills the official observance was held at the Mini Secretariat in Resubelpara with cabinet minister Timothy D Shira present along with Kharkutta MLA Rupert Momin, Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Saini, officials, dignitaries and representatives of various organisations.
Addressing the gathering, Shira recalled the historic journey leading to the formation of the state. He stated that Meghalaya’s statehood was the culmination of a democratic struggle led primarily under the leadership of the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC), spearheaded by pioneer leaders including Captain Williamson A Sangma, Brington Buhai Lyngdoh, Stanley Nichols Roy and others. The minister said that the state’s formation on January 21, 1972, stands as a testament to their collective vision for political autonomy, cultural identity and inclusive development of the hill people.
He further highlighted the socio-economic transformation witnessed by Meghalaya over the decades in sectors such as infrastructure, connectivity, tourism, health, education and agriculture.
Urging all stakeholders of the district to commit to a shared vision, the minister called upon the citizens to work towards building a prosperous, self-reliant and forward-looking Meghalaya.
As part of the celebration, awards were presented to personalities who have brought recognition to the district. Notably, Taitus Ch Marak, a renowned mountain biker from the district, was felicitated for bringing national recognition to Meghalaya through participation in prestigious mountain biking circuits and endurance races across the country. Family members of the late Rev Omed W Momin and late Rev Ramke W Momin, who were among the pioneering missionaries responsible for introducing Christianity in the region, were also honoured.
Members of Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) received seed kits and farming equipment under the Horticulture Department’s Seed Bank Programme and CM Catalytic Fund, aimed at improving food security and community-led agricultural production across the district.
Meanwhile, in Amlarem, the programme was organised by the office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) of Amlarem civil sub-division. Those present included the Assistant Commissioner of Amlarem, Kavery Rabha, Treemmi Lamare, a lecturer of political science at Kiang Nangbah Government College in Jowai, and others.
In Shillong, William Carey University celebrated statehood day with faculty members, staff and students in attendance. The programme commenced with the rendition of the state anthem, followed by an address by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Soma Bhowmick, who highlighted the historical significance of Meghalaya’s statehood and emphasised the importance of preserving the state’s cultural identity.
This was followed by an address by Prof Balensha Nongrum, Dean of the School of Social Sciences.
