Meghalaya celebrates 48th year of statehood

SHILLONG, JAN 21: Meghalaya on Tuesday celebrated its 48th year of statehood in a befitting manner.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma attended main official function to mark the celebration held at the U Soso Tham Auditorium, here in the state capital.

His cabinet ministers – AL Hek, Comingone Ymbon, Lahkmen Rymbui, Hamletson Dohling and Samlin Malngiang – were also present.

Addressing on the occasion, Sangma said that achieving Statehood is a moment and a gift to celebrate Meghalaya and recall with gratitude the hard fought moment while looking back at the selfless sacrifices of the forebears in their pursuit to protect the scared heritage of lands, culture, traditions, language, history, legacy, rights and responsibilities. He said that since Statehood Meghalaya has come a long way and in spite of challenges that still exists for the State it is only appropriate that as the day is celebrated , to look back and be proud and happy of the State. “It is also a to remember and thank all the people right from our forefathers who fought  for Statehood to the politicians, the bureaucrats, the government employees and the public who have brought the State to where it is today,” he said. He said that people were ready to die for Statehood forty eight years ago and today when we are enjoying Statehood the new slogan should be to live for the State. “My message to all the citizens on this joyous occasion is that all of us need to do what we can to take our State forward,” he said.                 The Chief Minister also informed that the objective of having a week long Meghalaya Day celebration culminating with the Republic Day is to bring in among the people especially the younger generation a sense of patriotism and love for the State and the nation. “All of us need to be reminded of how fortunate we are to have our own State and we need to educate the younger generation  of how the Statehood was achieved and the important of valuing it,” said the Chief Minister. He stated that the government is committed to ensure that Meghalaya achieves progress, prosperity and self sufficiency bringing in effectiveness and efficiency in the system. He also called upon all to pledge and rededicate to work dedicatedly for the State.

In his speech as guest of honour, Minister of Information & Public Relations, A L Hek said that the day is a day of celebration and remembrance as since the time of hill state movement all were pursuing the same goal of pushing Meghalaya to a greater height and achieved Statehood in a non violent way and therefore called upon the people of the State to nurture the environment of peace which is crucial for overall growth. He also said that the need of the hour is for all to come together and work for the cause of progress, development and security in all aspects.

The Chief Minister also distributed the Meghalaya Day Excellence Awards to government employees for their dedicated service.  Among others who spoke during the occasion were Chief Secretary, M S Rao, Principal Secretary, I & PR, who gave the welcome address and Director, I & PR, B S Sohliya who proposed the vote of thanks.

By Our Reporter