SHILLONG: On the occasion of Late prime minister Indira Gandhi’s 97th birth anniversary, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma launched the week-long observance of Quami Ekta (National Integration) at the Main Secretariat Building here on Wednesday.
Addressing the gathering before administering the pledge, Sangma fondly remembered “the great visionary leader” and first woman Prime Minister of India, who “stood for unity, peace, love and understanding among all countrymen.”
“The strength of our country lies in the diversity of community, religion and language of our people. But there are forces that threaten the integrity of this nation at times…We call upon people to stand up together against such forces,” the Chief Minister said while urging all government servants to discharge their duties without discrimination.
Home Minister Roshan Warjri also joined the officials of various government departments in taking the pledge.
MPCC observes Gandhi’s birth anniversary
Meanwhile, the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) also observed the 97th birth anniversary of the former prime minister at Congress Bhavan here on Wednesday.
The Chief Minister led the party members in lighting the ceremonial lamp and paying of floral tributes before the portrait of late Gandhi.
On the occasion, Sangma reminded the members of the illustrious life and contribution of Late Gandhi and underscored the importance of remembering the lives great leaders from the past.
He observed that the lives of those great personalities were more relevant today in the light of the various challenges faced by the nation.
“It is very important for us, particularly the younger generation to stay connected with the past and vibrant democracy of the nation. It is dangerous if we disconnect ourselves from our past.” Chief Minister observed
The Chief Minister suggested that a weeklong observance of the “National Integration” could be launched by the party and its MLAs, MDCs, DCC and BCC presidents and that the frontal organisations will hold suitable programmes in their own localities for the next one week.
The function also recalled the positive contribution of the Chief Minister in conceptualizing and executing the publication of the “Book of Knowledge” released in 2010, which was an attempt to reconnect the youth with 125 glorious years of this nation.
The function was attended by ministers, party MLAs, MDCs, PCC office bearers and members among others.
NYK observes National Integration Day
The National Integration Day was observed by Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK), Nongstoin in collaboration with NSS Unit, Nongstoin College here on Wednesday. The programme was chaired by HOD English, Nongstoin College, N Marwein.
A seminar titled, “Importance of National Integration towards Communal Harmony” was also organized on the occasion.
Pynskhemborlang L Lyngkhoi, Iaiangnud Thabah and Broming Diengdoh, who took part in the seminar, bagged the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes respectively.