By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 14: The Meghalaya government will conduct an in-depth analysis to trace the roots of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma held a meeting with officials of the Arts and Culture Department and research groups on Tuesday to discuss the project proposal on the historical, cultural, linguistic, and migratory origins of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes of Meghalaya.
“The teams are conducting extensive research to map the ancestry and origin of our tribal communities. Happy to support this initiative, look forward to the project’s outcomes, and wish the teams the very best,” he said.
Sangma said that a committee has been constituted to analyse the roots of the Khasi-Jaintia community and another for the Garo community.
He said that the committees will undertake detailed research, DNA mapping, linguistic and cultural linkages, and connect with research to document different aspects and backgrounds of the tribes.
The government is expected to launch this research programme in May, even though teams have been working on a preliminary study since February.
The research would also entail discussions with national and international institutes. The government hopes that the details will be available in the next 18-24 months.
The Chief Minister also held a series of review meetings with different line departments.
He held a review meeting with the Transport and Urban departments to assess the progress of key infrastructure and transport initiatives aimed at strengthening connectivity and urban development across the state.
They discussed the progress of the proposed Shillong Business-cum-Tourism and Cultural Centre.
The discussion focused on the beautification, cleanliness, and urban projects in Shillong, Jowai, and Tura. The emphasis was on involving the community to improve the cleanliness and waste management in Shillong.
Another review meeting was held with the Meghalaya Transport Corporation. The redevelopment of Meghalaya Transport Corporation land in Tura, the development of Transport Department land and bus depot at Nongpoh, and plans to make urban facilities operational were discussed.
The Chief Minister also chaired a review meeting with the Sports Department to track the progress for the upcoming National Games 2027.
“Today, we checked preparations for sports infrastructure, athlete accommodation, and overall preparedness of Team Meghalaya. All efforts are ongoing to ensure Meghalaya is geared towards a historic and memorable event,” he said.
