Jowai/Shillong, Jul 17: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday attended the Behdeinkhlam celebrations at Tuber and announced a new state scheme aimed at strengthening religious and cultural infrastructure across Meghalaya.
Addressing the gathering at what he called one of the biggest Behdeinkhlam festivals in the Jaiñtia Hills, Sangma said it was his second visit to Tuber and the scale of participation had improved each time.
He described the coming together of people for the festival as a “wonderful sight and a wonderful feeling.”
“This is the true identity of the people of our state. This is what makes us who we are. This is our culture and it is very important that we keep it alive,” the Chief Minister said, adding that it is equally important to pass these traditions to the next generation with active public participation.
He noted that Behdeinkhlam, traditionally observed to drive away disease and evil, continues to hold relevance today as a way to ward off “all kinds of bad vibes.”
He extended his greetings for the festival and underlined its significance in contemporary society.
Sangma said the government is keen to provide better infrastructure for such festivals. As part of that effort, a dedicated programme will soon be announced to support the religious, cultural and historical initiatives of various communities.
The scheme will cover Seinraij, Seng Khasi, Christian denominations and other faith groups in the state.
The plan includes assistance for setting up museums and galleries to document history and traditions.
The Chief Minister mentioned a recent request from Presbyterian church leaders for a museum in memory of Thomas Jones, and said similar support would be considered for the Catholic Church, other denominations, and traditional institutions.
He also referred to a proposal submitted by Seinraij Tuber for a gallery and museum at Tuber. “We are planning to support the proposal that has been given by Seinraij from Tuber,” he said, adding that the objective is to ensure the history and culture of different communities are properly captured and preserved.
On the financial aspect, Sangma said the demand from Tuber was for Rs 10 crore. However, since the scheme is intended to benefit all religious groups, the government will prepare a comprehensive plan before finalizing allocations.
“We want to take a comprehensive approach not to kind of leave out anybody or any religious group. It will be a comprehensive plan,” he said.
The proposal from Seinraij Tuber will be included in the broader initiative, he added, as the government works to document and support the cultural heritage of all communities in Meghalaya.
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