Several events in dist HQs
SHILLONG/TURA/AMPATI/NONGPOH/JOWAI: It was a day of concerts, awards, poetry, marathons and merry-making as district headquarters in the State marked the 45th Meghalaya Day on Saturday.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, who participated in the grand celebrations in Ampati, urged the mass to work selflessly for the larger interest of the State. He also sought support for his government to implement all development schemes.
He released balloons on the occasion with the hope of growth and prosperity. The celebrations in Ampati began with ‘Meghalaya Day Run’ that was flagged off by the deputy commissioner.
While expressing gratitude to the past leaders for their vision and struggle, the Chief Minister said there was “a complete disconnect with the great story of our State among the youths today”, which is why the State Government since the past two years, decided that the Statehood Day should be celebrated in every district in a fitting manner.
Many prominent citizens of the State on Friday had expressed disappointment over the State Government’s lack of introspection and absence of a road map for the next five years. The government was also criticised for indulging in unnecessary pomp on the statehood day.
In Ampati, the Chief Minister distributed solar lanterns to the students of classes IX and X under the State New and Renewable Energy Development Agency.
Chief whip W.D Sangma, Additional Chief Secretary Shreeranjan, local MDCs Nripen Koch and Stevie Marak were among other dignitaries who participated in the celebrations.
A rock concert and Gramodaya Football Tournament were also part of the celebrations.
In Jowai, Parliamentary secretary R. Syngkon too asked people to be responsible citizens and work hand in hand with the Government for development.
As part of the celebration, a scheme ‘Walang’(Worthy approach to livelihood access Network for all genders) Piggery Model Project — a convergence scheme by Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, West Jaintia Hills — was launched on Saturday. Work orders were also distributed to 52 beneficiaries during the function.
In Tura, the occasion was marked by cultural songs, dance, prayers and an award-giving ceremony. People from all walks of life comprising of senior citizens, retired bureaucrats, students and even people from religious backgrounds participated in the fiesta.
Among the prominent citizens who were present were Bluebell R. Sangma, MLA of Chokpot, Boston Marak, Chairman of Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, L.R Sangma, former Chairperson of MPSC, L.R Ch Momin, former Chairman of GHADC, L.K Marak, President of 100-Drums Wangala Festival Committee, besides Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi. Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Zenith M. Sangma graced the occasion as chief guest.
Armed with statistics, Zenith charted out the State’s development in the past 45 years. He said more C&RD blocks will be set up for further development and mentioned Sohiong in East Khasi Hills and Bajengdoba in North Garo Hills as part of the agenda.
A logo for celebrating 150 years of Tura town was also unveiled. This celebration too has started and will continue till December 1.
Addressing the gathering at the function in Nongpoh, deputy commissioner C.P Gotmare said the State is marching ahead in all aspects. Other highlights of the day include folk song and cultural dance performed by the youth of Seng Samla Pahammardoloi, awakening endeavours society Nongthymmai Kyrdem and students of St Paul’s High School, Nongpoh.
The programme concluded with presentation of Anganwadi Award to three workers — Smti. Pelinda Sun of Umbir ‘A’ Anganwadi Centre in Umsning ICDS Project, Emergency Ripnar of Patharkhmah ‘A’ Anganwadi Centre, Jirang ICDS Project, and Frejeta Momin of Jorbil Killing Anganwadi Centre Umling ICDS Project.