TURA: A ‘Peace Flag Off’ programme themed “Say peace in all languages” was organized on Thursday by the Garo Baptist Convention in collaboration with the District Administration at SMELC near here. The objective of the peace flag off was to create a platform to promote and spread much needed peace in the militancy-ravaged Garo Hills region.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma while inaugurating the ‘Peace Flag Off’ programme commended the organizers for organizing the unique initiative to promote peace in the region.
Stating that peace alone was not sufficient Sangma emphasized on achieving sustainable peace through concerted efforts by all the stake holders of the region.
Referring to the recommendations given by the peace workshop aimed to map the origin of militancy in Northeast India with a special reference to Garo Hills held in June, he said that the suggestions were enriching and added that it was important for the government to know the root cause of the problem.
Sangma, while observing the trend of anti-social elements targeting the youth, said that the government was competing with militant organizations to woo the youth into their fold.
Asserting that there was no room for complacency and wastage of time, Sangma said that such platforms were necessary to stay connected to the people.
Wishing the endeavors of the Garo Baptist Convention a success, Sangma said that it was the responsibility of the government to support the programme.
Garo Baptist Convention president Roderick D. Shira gave a brief report on the peace initiatives of the Convention, while Tura Baptist Church Assistant Pastor Timothy Cherak G. Momin gave a presentation on the peace workshop held last month.
Among others who spoke on the occasion were Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi, Harding Theological College Principal Dr. Imanungshi, Lecturer Rev. Lalhmingthangi C. Marak, Sacred Heart Church Parish Priest Fr. Theodore T. Sangma and Don Bosco College Pastor Brinidita R. Marak.
Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated the West Garo Hills District Rural Development Agency funded Youth Cultural Centre at Harding Theological College campus at Edenbari.
During the programme he stated that there was a need for a holistic way to tap the potential of the youth.
