Peace vital for State’s progress, says Meghalya CM Conrad K Sangma

Staff Correspondent

SHILLONG, Aug 16: Meghalya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma underscored the importance of peace as one of the major requisite that can propel the state forward. Speaking as the Chief Guest after the Rastriya salute to mark the country indpendence on Wednesday in Shillong, Sangma stated “great nations can be built only with the contribution and hard work of one and all while violence in any form undermines its progress.”.

“The path of peace and reconciliation can be difficult, but we must persist, as this alone will enable our State and our Nation to develop and progress. “, stated the Chief Minister in his earnestly appeal to all citizens of the State to hold on steadfastly to the democratic values, to progress through discussions and negotiations as we proceed on our journey towards development and progress.

Stating that his Government is committed to the ideals of peace and prosperity and all round development of the State, Conrad K Sangma also listed the priorities. One of the focus area of Governance is to maximize agriculture and horticulture potential of the State and bring all round benefit for all stake holders. It will generate employment and boost income of the people. Meghalaya is an agrarian state. Agriculture is the key to rural prosperity and food security for a majority of our citizens.

Tourism is another priority area of the Government. There is a huge potential for promoting eco-friendly tourism in Meghalaya. Tourism industry has huge potential to create employment for the youth of our State, he felt , beside mentioning the education sector that needs to be taken up to a higher level especially in our rural areas.

Summining up, Conrad K Sangma is of the view that it is imperative to build a society which is inclusive and progressive.

The colourful parade in Shillong includes 58 GTC, BSF, CRPF, Assam Police, District Executive Force, Police Training School, NCC Boys and Girls, CSSCF, Meghalaya Bharat Scouts and Guides, Indian Red Cross Society and a host of educational institutions.

The Chief Minister presented the Pa Togan N Sangma Award for Social Services to Bertha Gyndykes Dkhar, U Tirot Sing Award for Art and Literature to Handam R Marak and U Kiang Nangbah Award for Sports and Games to Aiborlang Khongjee.

At Williamnagar, Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong unfurled the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of 32 marching contingents.

Home Minister James PK Sangma, unfurled the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of 29 marching contingents at Ampati.

At Resubelpara the national tricolor was unfurled by PHE Minister Samlin while Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Banteidor Lyngdoh unfurled the national flag at Baghmara.