Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday highlighted the state’s progress across key sectors while addressing the state-level celebrations of India’s 80th Independence Day at Polo Ground in Shillong.
Sangma hoisted the National Flag and reviewed the ceremonial parade, which was followed by cultural programmes showcasing Meghalaya’s rich and diverse heritage.
In his address, the Chief Minister said the state had witnessed significant transformation over the past eight years, with the Meghalaya government, with support from the Centre, making progress in education, sports, healthcare, agriculture, tourism and youth employment.
Sangma also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Centre’s continued support and for recognising Meghalaya’s economic growth.
He congratulated the Meghalaya Police for receiving the President’s Police Colour, one of the highest honours bestowed upon a police force in India.
The Chief Minister also announced a new initiative, “Tracing the Roots,” aimed at promoting research into the history and migration journeys of Meghalaya’s indigenous communities.
Under the programme, around 75 scholars will travel across the Northeast and to countries including Vietnam, Cambodia and Tibet to study the origins and journeys of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo peoples.
Sangma said the initiative would help deepen understanding of the region’s history, heritage and cultural connections beyond India’s borders.
The Chief Minister also extended his Independence Day greetings to the people of Meghalaya, marking his ninth consecutive address on the occasion.
