NONGPOH: The Ri Bhoi district administration in collaboration with the Ri Bhoi Dorbar on Tuesday organised a one-day programme to commemorate the 27th Ri Bhoi Foundation Day at the District Library Auditorium here.
Chief Adviser to the state government DD Lapang, while addressing the gathering as chief guest, said that Ri Bhoi district is marching ahead with time in various spheres like education, sports, health, road connectivity and that the district had produced a number of well-known and prominent personalities like Fr. Sngi and others through their dedication and hard work.
Lapang also recalled the days when the people of the district were plagued by poverty, illness and lack of development, but with the vision, determination and untiring efforts of the leaders of Ri Bhoi Dorbar, better days have now dawned.
He also mentioned some of the great leaders of the world such as Napoleon, Abraham Lincoln, BR Ambedkar, who attained greatness through determination and hard work.
He encouraged school students by telling them to aim high with strong determination regardless of their ups and downs in life, so that one day they, too, would be a shining star.
He also lauded and appreciated the selfless and untiring efforts of the government officials in promoting and) uplifting the socio-economic life of the people. He said more milestones lay ahead and asked people to cooperate with the government.
Lapang also congratulated the awardees in various fields and wished them luck for their future endeavour.
Other dignitaries who were also present included Nongpoh MLA Meralborn Syiem, Deputy Commissioner Rosetta Mary Kurbah, MDC of Nongpoh B Ranee, MDC of Jirang Victor Rani, MDC of Umsning Macdalyne Sawkmie Mawlong besides officers of various line departments, the traditional heads, teachers and school children.
Earlier during the celebration, the newly-elected MDCs of the district were felicitated and awards were given away to those who have brought laurels to the district through various contributions such as in football, beauty pageants and entertainment. Students securing highest percentage in the recently-declared SSLC and HSSLC examinations were also awarded.