Tura, Jan 21: Along with the rest of the state, the 54th Meghalaya Statehood Day was celebrated on Wednesday at DC Park, Tura, with speakers reflecting on the state’s historical journey, economic progress and the importance of preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Addressing the gathering, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Agarwal extended greetings to the people of the district and highlighted Meghalaya’s transformation since attaining statehood in 1972. He said the state has made significant strides in infrastructure development, service delivery and regional growth, positioning Meghalaya among the faster-growing economies in the country.
While noting the push towards modernisation, Agarwal stressed that protecting the state’s diverse cultural heritage remains a key priority. He emphasised the need for mission-mode efforts in youth empowerment, describing young people as Meghalaya’s greatest demographic strength.
Referring to the Chief Minister’s vision, the Deputy Commissioner said agencies such as the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society and various government departments are prioritising programmes to equip youth with modern and industry-relevant skills. Strengthening the capacity of the younger generation, he said, is essential for the state to remain competitive in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
Jyostna D. Sangma, Associate Professor at Tura Government College, traced the history of Meghalaya’s formation, recalling the peaceful democratic movement that led to statehood. She noted that Meghalaya was first granted autonomous state status under the Assam Reorganisation Act of 1969, before achieving full statehood on January 21, 1972, under the North Eastern Areas Reorganisation Act, 1971.
She also highlighted Meghalaya’s rich cultural traditions, including festivals such as Wangala, Shad Suk Mynsiem, Behdienkhlam and Nongkrem, and paid tribute to leaders and freedom fighters who played key roles in shaping the state’s identity, including Captain Williamson A. Sangma, Sonaram R. Sangma, Modi K. Marak, Hoping Stone Lyngdoh, Wilson Reade, U Tirot Sing Syiem, U Kiang Nangbah and Pa Togan Nengminja Sangma.
The celebration featured traditional dance performances, a flute (bangsi) recital and chigring performance by Preman D. Sangma, and a cultural presentation by the Tantani Group Garo Folk Fusion Band (MGMP). Winners of a recently held art competition were also felicitated.
The programme concluded with a peace prayer led by Rev. Dilseng M. Sangma, General Secretary, ABDK, Garo Baptist Church, Tura.
Watch
Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.
Also, Follow us on
Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub
Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020
Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub
Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub
