A seminar on the natural and cultural heritage of Meghalaya was today organised by the Department of Environment and Traditional Ecosystems and the Department of Tourism and Travel Management of Martin Luther Christian University as part of the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of statehood of the State.
Various publications were also released at an event held at the MLCU campus in Nongrah which aims to commemorate and understand the importance of the natural and cultural wealth of Meghalaya.
Former UPSC chairman, Dr David R Syiemlieh who attended the programme as the chief guest also released a book entitled, ‘Cave Pearls of Meghalaya Volume 3’ edited by Thomas Arbenz.
Commissioner and Secretary, Dr D Vijay Kumar released the posters on the Meghalayan Age prepared by Dr Glenn C Kharkongor. The posters have been prepared separately for both adults and children.
Dr TK Kharbamon, Vice Chancellor of MLCU released a novel entitled ‘The Pangs of Love’ written by Dr Brian D Kharpran Daly. The novel is set in a caving context being an important part of the fiction book.
A presentation on caving expeditions was given by Dr Brian D Kharpran Daly, which displayed the rich natural beauty of caves in the state.
The release of the publications was followed by a seminar.
Dr Syiemlieh gave a presentation on iron smelting among the Khasis which is an important cultural tradition. This was followed by Dr Marco Mitri’s carbon dating of archaeological specimens from megalithic sites in Meghalaya and Dr Glenn C Kharkongor spoke on the Meghalayan Age, an educational presentation helping to understand better the phenomenon.
The programme was attended by board members of the university, invitees and guests, Deans, Head of Departments, faculty members and students.
