Williamnagar, Sept 1: The town of Williamnagar was abuzz with celebrations and activity as thousands gathered at the Rongrenggre playground to commemorate the 78th Birth Anniversary of late P.A. Sangma and the 13th Foundation Day of the National People’s Party (NPP).

The event drew people from across the Northeast and beyond, reflecting the enduring respect and admiration for the late leader.

The day-long programme began with a singing competition, followed by the release of a coffee table book and the inauguration of the P.A. Sangma Photo Gallery. The formal proceedings opened at 1 p.m. with the singing of Oh Ang Aman Asong—a composition by Beston Momin, recreated by popular band Nokpante—which has been adopted as the NPP anthem in Garo Hills.

Floral tributes were led by Soradini K. Sangma, wife of the late leader, alongside NPP chief and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and other dignitaries. The welcome address was delivered by Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak.

In a significant moment, over 300 new members from various political parties who recently joined NPP were felicitated. Several athletes from East Garo Hills were honoured with the prestigious P.A. Sangma Achievers’ Award. A special felicitation was also accorded to Soradini K. Sangma, as well as to close associates Sonelal Kol, N.K. Gauri, and Breston Momin, who had played pivotal roles in shaping the party during its early years.

The celebration also marked the inauguration of the P.A. Sangma Museum Arena by Cabinet Minister Marcuise Marak. The museum, showcasing the life, ideals, and philosophy of the late leader, aims to inspire both the younger and older generations. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma later visited the museum and described it as an “immersive tribute” to his father’s remarkable journey.

Several distinguished leaders addressed the gathering, sharing memories and reflections on Sangma’s life and legacy. Thangwang Wangham, State President of Arunachal Pradesh NPP, described him as the “true leader of the Northeast” and urged the strengthening of the party. Rajya Sabha MP W.R. Kharluki recalled Sangma’s deep concern for people’s welfare and his camaraderie with security personnel.

Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar expressed regret at not having worked directly with Sangma but praised his farsighted vision that continues to shape Meghalaya.

Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Thomas A. Sangma, highlighted P.A. Sangma’s tireless commitment to tribal, indigenous, and marginalized communities. National Working President of NPP, James K. Sangma, expressed gratitude to leaders from across the region whose presence, he said, was a fitting tribute.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, in an emotional address, shared personal anecdotes of accompanying his father during the party’s formative days in Manipur. He recalled how his father’s optimism, even when faced with an almost empty meeting hall, transformed challenges into opportunities. “He was a man undeterred by challenges and full of positivity,” Conrad said, crediting his father’s leadership for the NPP’s growth and stature today.

Concluding his speech, Conrad reflected on the meaning of his father’s name, Purno—which means “complete”—and said, “Indeed, he lived a complete and meaningful life.”

Also Read: USTM celebrates Northeast’s Unforgettable Trailblazer – P.A. Sangma on his 78th birth anniversary

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