Shillong/TURA: Quami Ekta Week (National Integration Week) was observed on Monday with the National Integration Pledge administered by Deputy Chief Minister R C Laloo at Secretariat.
With a view to foster and reinforce the spirit of Communal Harmony, National Integration and pride in vibrant, composite culture and nationhood, the Qaumi Ekta Week (National Integration Week) will be observed all over the country, from November 19-25.
November 19 was observed as National Integration Day and programmes like meetings, symposia and seminars was organised to emphasize the themes of secularism, anti-communalism and non-violence.
On the occasion Laloo administered the National Integration Pledge to work with dedication to preserve and strengthen the freedom and integrity of the nation, to never resort to violence and to continue to endeavour towards settlement of all differences and disputes relating to religion, language, region or other political or economic grievances by peaceful and constitutional means.
Chief Secretary, T Tsering and other senior officers were also present.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister, Mukul Sangma urged citizens to re-inforce the spirit of communal harmony and reconnect with the sense of belonging of the great nation while administering the Pledge for National Integration at DRDA Conference Hall in Tura on Monday.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister fondly recalled the great visionary leader and former prime minister Indira Gandhi whose birth anniversary is observed as National Integration Day or Quami Ekta Divas, in line with her ideals of unity, love and understanding among all countrymen.
He also recalled how the great leader was instrumental in the creation of the state of Meghalaya from erstwhile state of Assam despite various challenges faced by the leaders during those times.
He also urged upon all government servants serving in various departments in different capacities to discharge their duties and responsibilities and serve the people selflessly.
Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Zenith Sangma, North Tura MLA, Noverfield R Marak and a host of other dignitaries were present at the function.
