Guwahati: Meghalaya completed its 50 years of statehood today. And with this, the state organised a grand event at Shillong’s JN Stadium to commemorate the 50th statehood day while strictly adhering to Covid-19 protocols.
The celebrations began with the lighting of lamp by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh and CS at the JN Stadium at 11 am and concluded at 1.30 pm.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma attended the event virtually as he is in home isolation after experiencing mild symptoms of Covid-19.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the statehood day celebrations in Shillong via video conferencing talked about the rich contributions that the people of Meghalaya have made to the development of the country.
The event saw beautiful cultural performances including “Shillong Chamber Choir”.
Moreover, during the event, a documentation on the state’s 50-year existence was also launched. The state emblem of Meghalaya was also unveiled by speaker Metbah Lyngdoh today.
Different areas of Shillong and other parts of the state have been decorated with wall paintings among others on the occasion.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind greeted the people of Meghalaya, Manipur, and Tripura as the three states are celebrating their statehood Day today.
All three states became full-fledged states on January 21, 1972, under the Northeastern Region Reorganisation Act of 1971.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people of Meghalaya on 50th Statehood Day of Meghalaya.
While virtually addressing the people of Meghalaya, PM Modi paid tribute to everyone who has contributed to the establishment and development of the state.
Speaking on the occasion, PM Modi recalled his visit to Shillong to attend the North Eastern Council Meet after becoming Prime Minister. It was the first visit to the state by any Prime Minister after a gap of 3-4 decades.
He complemented the people of the state for further strengthening their identity as people close to the nature.
“Meghalaya has given the message of nature, progress, conservation and eco-sustainability to the world,” PM Modi said.
Referring to the traditions of ‘Whistling Village’ and choirs in every village, the Prime Minister saluted the contribution of the state in the fields of art and music. He said that this land is filled with talented artists and Shillong Chamber Choir has taken it to new heights. He noted that the country has high hopes from the rich sports culture of Meghalaya.
The Prime Minister also noted the growing fame of the state in the field of organic farming.
“Sisters of Meghalaya have revived the art of bamboo weaving and its hard-working farmers are strengthening Meghalaya’s identity as organic state”, he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment for better roads, rail and air connectivity. He said that measures have been taken to ensure new domestic and global market for the organic products of the state.
“The state government is making all the efforts to take the central schemes to the people. Schemes like PM Gramin Sadak Yojna and National Livelihood Mission have benefitted Meghalaya. Today, Jal Jeevan Mission has taken the piped water to 33 per cent households from just 1 percent households in 2019. Meghalaya is among the first states to use drones for the vaccine delivery,” the Prime Minister said.
In Conclusion, the Prime Minister assured the people of Meghalaya his continued support and determination to develop new sectors apart from tourism and organic products.
