By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 15: Meghalaya joined hands with the rest of the country to celebrate Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas, a week of tribal pride that coincides with the birthday of Tribal freedom fighter, Birsa Munda.
The event also marked the simultaneous launch of the Mobile IEC van of Viksit Bharat in 75 predominantly tribal districts across the country.
The morning began with Chief Secretary DP Wahlang flagging off a cultural procession featuring troupes and tableaus showcasing art and craft villages, educational institutions, and ethnic associations.
The formal proceedings began with chief guest Paul Lyngdoh, Minister of Arts and Culture, laying floral tributes at the life-sized statues of three Meghalaya freedom fighters. The guest of honour, PN Syiem, Deputy Chief Executive Member, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, and other dignitaries joined in this tribute.
Following which there was a walk-through of open-air museums showcasing Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia kitchens that depicted tribal lifestyles and cuisines.
Highlights included a video message from the Governor Phagu Chauhan and a streamed speech by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Lyngdoh emphasised the significance of showcasing Meghalaya’s unique tribal legacy, highlighting its increasing recognition nationally. He highlighted the importance of events like Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas and the upcoming Tri Hills Ensemble – II on November 24 and 25, echoing the theme of ‘Stories that Matter.’
Guest of honour PN Syiem, Deputy CEM of KHADC called for enhanced collaboration between the Arts and Culture department and KHADC, establishing the role of District Councils as custodians of culture and heritage.
Commissioner and Secretary, FR Kharkongor, in his welcome speech, outlined the objectives of the 10-day Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas, culminating in the Tri Hills Ensemble – II.
Six newly recognised Art and Craft villages, including Mustoh, Nongkynrih, Ialong, Babadam, Umladkhur, and Wahkhen, were announced for awards on November 24 this year. The celebrations also served as a platform to enhance outreach on Viksit Bharat, focusing on beneficiaries-oriented schemes across various domains.
Musical performances by AROHA Choir, traditional singing competition winners, and a harp performance by MLCU were presented following which awards and recognition were presented to winning schools, outstanding SHGs, VECs, social welfare workers, and cooperation workers.