Shillong MP raises deficiencies at JNV Niangbari
SHILLONG, Sep 26: Shillong MP Ricky AJ Syngkon on Thursday expressed concern over the lack of basic facilities for students at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) in Niangbari, Ri-Bhoi. During his inspection, Syngkon noted several deficiencies at the school. He informed that students were facing water shortages, affecting drinking, cleaning, and other essential needs. Additionally, the school lacks a reliable electricity supply. “I am not satisfied with the hostel facilities, especially for younger students. They are not up to the mark,” Syngkon said. He also pointed out the absence of proper playgrounds and highlighted that the school lacks smart classrooms, unlike other JNV institutions. Furthermore, Syngkon mentioned the poor road access to the school, with students having to rely on village roads to reach the campus. The MP emphasized that the school management must take immediate steps to improve the facilities for the students’ welfare.
Roadshow raises awareness on livestock census, diseases
AMPATI, Sep 26: The Animal Husbandry and Veterinary department, in collaboration with Red FM Shillong, hosted a roadshow at the bustling Ampati market on Thursday, disseminating awareness on the upcoming 21st Livestock Census of India, major pet and livestock diseases and the importance of timely vaccinations. According to a statement here, the roadshow, which was hosted by RJ Zack from Red FM Shillong, captured the attention of locals and traders alike. “RJ Zack conducted interviews with experts including Dr. Bannie Balsrang M Sangma, Dr. Dayana D Sangma, and Dr. Makeda B Sangma, who discussed crucial diseases such as Rabies, Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Classical Swine Fever, and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR). The experts emphasised preventive measures and the necessity of regular vaccinations to safeguard both livestock and pets,” the statement said. Despite the rain, the event saw active participation, with quizzes, dance performances and distribution of rabies awareness pamphlets adding to the lively atmosphere. “Additionally, officials took the opportunity to share important information regarding the 21st Livestock Census. They appealed to household owners and village heads to actively participate in the census, emphasising its importance in shaping future policy and resource distribution for the region’s livestock sector,” the statement said.
Conference on literature, culture and community
SHILLONG, Sep 26: The Department of English of St. Anthony’s College on Thursday inaugurated a two-day international conference on Thursday, focusing on the intersection of literature, culture, community and contemporary global challenges. Sponsored by the Department of Arts and Culture, the North Eastern Council (NEC), the Indian Council of Social Science Research-North Eastern Regional Centre (ICSSR-NERC), Meghalayan Age Limited and the North East India AV Archive, the conference provides a platform for scholars to explore how literature both reflects and shapes cultural and community experiences. Titled ‘International Conference on Literature, Community and Culture’, the event brings together scholars from various disciplines to engage in presentations and discussions. The conference also aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and amplify marginalised voices, with a special emphasis on indigenous knowledge, oral traditions and community narratives in shaping cultural heritage and addressing global issues such as climate change, migration and social inequality. One of the key highlights is a session on ‘Spaces and Negotiations in Women’s Writing’, led by Dr. Suneetha Rani, Head of the Department of Women’s Studies at the University of Hyderabad. A total of 105 presenters from across the globe are expected to present their papers.
Art exhibition gets under way at city college
SHILLONG, Sep 26: An art exhibition titled ‘EnatRiti,’ meaning ‘The Cultural Roots’, was inaugurated at St. Anthony’s College here on Thursday. Organised by fifth-semester Media Technologies students, in collaboration with the English Department, the exhibition is a highlight of the ongoing International Conference on Literature, Community, and Culture. The name ‘EnatRiti’ merges ‘Enat’, which means ‘cultural’ in Manipuri, with ‘Riti’, meaning ‘roots’ in Khasi. The exhibition showcases the culmination of two months of hard work by students, blending tradition with modern artistic styles. Featuring 36 unique exhibits created by 24 students, the display includes paintings, sculptures, sound installations and written works. While many students contributed individual pieces, several collaborated on larger installations. They offer insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage while incorporating contemporary artistic elements. The driving force behind ‘EnatRiti’ is Etawanda Saiborne, the teacher in charge, whose guidance and support were key to bringing the project to fruition.