From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, Jan 10: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday appreciated Jowai’s active participation in the upcoming Meghalaya Games, stating that athletes from the town, who previously had to travel to Tura and Shillong, would now compete locally.
Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Centenary Jubilee Celebration of the Dorbar Shnong Chutwakhu, Jowai, during an event held at Jrisaleiñ Ground in Jowai, the chief minister commended the leadership and resilience of the village, celebrating its past and present leaders for their contributions to this historic milestone.
He highlighted the village’s notable role during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a Rs 50,000 donation to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
Appreciating Jowai’s participation in the upcoming Meghalaya Games, Conrad, as a gesture of support, distributed cheques worth Rs 1 lakh each to 21 sports clubs and associations in the West Jaiñtia Hills District to aid preparations for the games.
As part of the celebrations, the chief minister unveiled the village’s flag to mark the beginning of the Centenary Jubilee and inaugurated the main monument commemorating the event.
The celebration was also attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, who lauded the Dorbar Shnong Chutwakhu for its remarkable 100-year journey and achievements. Other dignitaries included MLA Lahkmen Rymbui, government officials and invited guests.
The event included a traditional welcome by village head PW Lyngdoh and prayers led by Rev. Dr. ER Tongper. Youth performances—including dances, songs and choreographed acts—were other highlights of the celebrations.
On the occasion, senior citizens released 100 balloons to symbolise the jubilee milestone, while mementos were distributed to all households in the village.
The festivities concluded with an ‘Oldies But Goodies Concert’, featuring local musical groups such as Lynx, Theophilus, Desling Amse, Nexus, and Timeless Tunes.
A historical overview of the Dorbar Shnong Chutwakhu revealed that the village was established in 1925 under the leadership of pioneers such as OH Rease (Omil Haris Shullai), Lomiwell Shylla and Phelickstone Rymbai. Initially formed as a club, it evolved into the Chutwakhu Society in 1930 to oversee community activities.
Over the decades, the society established committees focusing on education, sports, vigilance, arts and finance. In 1992, a Vigilance Committee was formed to ensure good governance, and in 1998, an Education Committee was set up to promote educational initiatives.
In 2024, in accordance with district council regulations, the Chutwakhu Social Welfare Local Dorbar was renamed the Dorbar Shnong Chutwakhu, Jowai.