By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 15: As part of its Diamond Jubilee (1965–2025) celebration, Synod College, Shillong, hosted a two-day National Seminar titled ‘His Footprints in Time: Trailblazers of Meghalaya in the Making of Modern India’ which started on Thursday.
The event, hosted by the college’s Centre for Historical Research (CHRSC), highlighted the contributions of Meghalaya’s pioneers to India’s nation-building and showcased CHRSC’s commitment to preserving the state’s rich history.
Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, in his keynote address, called the initiative “a timely intervention to celebrate Meghalaya’s unsung heroes.” He also stressed the importance of recognising local narratives as foundational to India’s pluralistic identity.
The CM also spoke about the need for documentation of such seminars in the form of compilations, books or papers.
Rajya Sabha member WR Kharlukhi was also present on the occasion.
A special ceremony honoured contributors in education, politics, literature, theology, and indigenous knowledge.
The two-day seminar will feature over 35 scholarly presentations spread across four technical sessions.
Among the key figures discussed were: Dr Phervision Nongtdu, educationist in East Jaintia Hills; Rev. Shai Rabooh Manar, War Jaintia spiritual leader; BM Pugh, tribal reformer; Prof. AK Nongkynrih, in the field of academics; Hally War, indigenous engineer behind the Umkar Root Bridge; and Rev. JJM Nichols-Roy, framer of Meghalaya’s legal traditions.
Other presentations explored the literary brilliance of Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih; the political acumen of Dr. Donkupar Roy and Prof. G.G. Swell; and the speleological achievements of Brian D. Kharpran Daly. The contributions of Prof. Orlando Lyngdoh, Prof. Barrister Pakem, and James Michael Lyngdoh were highlighted for their impact on education and governance.
The seminar concluded with tributes to Captain Clifford Nongrum, Skendrowell Syiemlieh, and Rev. Dr. Amos C. Moore. Reaffirming its dedication to heritage and scholarship, Synod College underscored Meghalaya’s role in shaping modern India.
