BAGHMARA: The picturesque town of Baghmara, headquarters of South Garo Hills, witnessed a vibrant and historic celebration of the on Wednesday, showcasing the State’s rich cultural heritage, unity, and development aspirations.
The State-level celebration, held in Baghmara for the first time, was graced by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, IPR Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, several MLAs and MDCs from the region. Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed and Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang, were also present, alongside a large gathering of citizens.54th Meghalaya Day
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said Meghalaya’s creation was the result of divine blessings, unity, and the sacrifices of its people.
“With confidence, determination, and a strong will, we will achieve the goals we have set for ourselves,” the Chief Minister said.
He paid rich tribute to the leaders who spearheaded the Statehood movement through peaceful and unwavering struggle, recalling how people across tribes and communities came together with a shared dream despite differences.
Expressing concern over growing divisions, particularly on social media, the Chief Minister said negativity and hatred among communities were troubling.
“Sometimes I see negativity and hatred, and it makes me wonder whether we have forgotten what our leaders stood for,” he said, reminding citizens that the prayers and sacrifices of elders and mothers of Meghalaya had led to the creation of the State.
The Chief Minister informed that he had received a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, conveying warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Meghalaya on the occasion. He said the Prime Minister fondly recalled late P. A. Sangma and acknowledged his immense contribution to the State and the nation.
While acknowledging the contributions of countless individuals over the past five decades, Sangma said the journey ahead remained challenging and required continued cooperation and shared responsibility.
Speaking on development, the Chief Minister noted that Meghalaya has recorded significant progress over the last seven to eight years, achieving an average growth rate of around 10 per cent over the past three years, placing it among the fastest-growing States in the country. However, he stressed that development must be felt in everyday life.
“I have never been a big fan of foundation stones or MoUs. Real development must be experienced by people in their daily lives,” he said.
Referring to the CM-Connect programme, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of mindset, stating that planning and clarity at the district level were essential for meaningful progress.
Calling the decision to hold the Statehood Day celebration in South Garo Hills deeply symbolic, Sangma said Baghmara is the homeland of late Captain Williamson A. Sangma, Meghalaya’s first Chief Minister and one of the principal architects of the State. He said the celebration was a fitting tribute to his legacy.
Sharing recent developments, the Chief Minister announced that the second phase of the Baghmara water supply project, amounting to ₹140 crore, had been cleared just a day earlier. He also assured that road connectivity issues in the district would be addressed.
Expressing concern over the condition of Baghmara Civil Hospital, he assured the public that he would personally ensure its transformation into a model hospital for the State.
Stressing unity, the Chief Minister said the destiny of the people of Meghalaya is inseparable.
“He has a plan for us,” he said, urging citizens to rise and play their part in realising that vision.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong described the celebration as historic, noting that it was perhaps the first time a major Statehood Day event was held in Baghmara. Acknowledging South Garo Hills as one of the most backward districts, he said the Government is committed to ensuring last-mile development through improved connectivity and infrastructure.
He informed that road connectivity from Shillong to Baghmara is nearly 60 per cent complete, with remaining works to be taken up soon.
IPR Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said Meghalaya Day noted that sustained people-centric governance under MDA–I and MDA–II has brought visible transformation across regions.
He highlighted initiatives promoting unity, including language learning programmes in Khasi and Garo regions, and skill development efforts such as the Community Integrated Skills Learning Programme, aimed at enhancing employability and dignity of labour.
During the programme, Meghalaya Day Awards, Governor’s Police Medals, and Meghalaya Day Excellence Awards were presented in recognition of exemplary service. A video titled “Rise Meghalaya” highlighting the State’s development journey was also screened.
The event featured cultural performances, including traditional Khasi, Jaintia, and the rarely seen Atong and Ruga dances of South Garo Hills, celebrating Meghalaya’s diverse heritage.
