Rajiv Gandhi birth anniversary observed
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma formally launched the Rajiv Gandhi Study Circle programme on “Empowerment of People, Vigilant and Corruption Free India,” on the occasion of the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi at Congress Bhavan on Saturday.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sangma referred to an earlier statement by UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi who had said, “Friends, there is no doubt that corruption at all levels has become a disease spreading throughout the society. The poor pay the heaviest price for it and bear its greatest burden”, while adding that the Congress party is committed to intensifying its struggle against corruption by following the five-point agenda laid down by the party.
MPCC president Friday Lyngdoh, who presided over the function, exhorted the party men to inculcate in them the ideals and principles of late Rajiv Gandhi.
During the meeting, it was unanimously resolved that a year-long programme on “Empowerment of People, Vigilant and Corruption Free India,” would be organised at the district and block levels to inform people about the party’s resolve to weed out corruption.
Stress on use of renewable energy
The Meghalaya Non Conventional and Rural Energy Development Agency observed the Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas (Renewable Energy) at All Saint’s Cathedral Hall in the city on Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said using renewable energy is cheaper and better in conservation and preservation of environment.
Highlighting on the basic requirement and consumption of energy, he said the need for energy has been steadily rising all over the country and it is time to explore new areas with creativity and innovation to ensure sustainable energy supply like biomass, bio gas and bio waste that can be used for cooking and lighting. He also mentioned that use of solar energy is one of the best available options.
Stressing on the need to utilise natural resources judiciously, Dr Sangma said it can promote economic activity, generate more employment and improve the quality of life in the rural areas. “Technology should be utilised in a sustainable manner so that it can contribute towards better ecology and reduce the existing hazards to health and environment,” he added.
He also assured the gathering that the Government would distribute solar table lamps to the school students present on the occasion.
Dr Sangma also called upon the Meghalaya Non Conventional and Rural Energy Development Agency and the students’ community to play their role in creating awareness about the benefits of using renewable energy among different section of society.
Additional Chief Secretary BK Dev Verma, in his brief speech, mentioned that hydro and thermal energy generated in the State is not enough to provide sufficient power supply, so it is important that people switch over to renewable sources of energy.