From Our Correspondent
TURA: Together with the rest of the country, the 65th Independence Day was celebrated with national fervor and gaiety in Tura on Wednesday, where the Minister for Forest and Environment, etc. Prestone Tynsong unfurled the Tricolour and took the Rashtriya salute before a large gathering at Tura MP Stadium, here at Dakopgre.
A parade by 40 marching contingents, including 2nd MLP Battalion, Tura District Executive Force, District Home Guards, NCC and Boy Scouts and Girl Guides and a colourful cultural programme marked the celebrations at Tura.
Greeting the people of Tura on the occasion, the chief guest Prestone Tynsong, in his address, recalled with pride the great sacrifice of the freedom fighters whose undying love their motherland secured us the freedom and urged the gathering to value the unity and integrity in order to grow as a strong nation. Although the activities of militant outfits continue to be a cause of concern, the overall law and order situation in the State has remained stable has been under control during the recent months, he said and lauded the citizens of Garo Hills for coming out boldly and in large numbers to defy the bandh calls given by a militant outfit recently.
He also appealed to the youth to shun the path of violence and instead join the fight against hunger and poverty. The minister, while highlighting the efforts of the Government to usher in all round development of the State, said that several innovative initiatives are being envisaged for the 12th Five Year Plan focusing on harnessing of State’s natural resources for sustainable livelihoods, expanding and strengthening the infrastructural base and building capacity among the people.
He appealed to all the people of the State to extend their full support and cooperation to the government in maintaining peace and harmony as well implementing the developmental programmes in the State.
On the occasion, the District Administration felicitated the toppers of SSLC and HSSLC examinations from the district and also awarded Appreciation Certificates to a selected Grade III and Grade IV government employees as recognition of their selfless service, sincerity and exemplary conduct while discharging their duties as government servants.
The chief guest also gave away the prizes and trophies to the best contingents in the March Past, best cultural troupes and to the winners of the Independence Day Run, which was organised on August 14 as part of the celebrations.