Shillong, March 04: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today unveiled the plaque to officially rename the Dikki Bandi Stadium in Tura to “P.A. Sangma Stadium” and the Araimile – Dakopgre – Walbakgre road to “P.A. Sangma road” in presence of Home Minister James K. Sangma, Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister Thomas A. Sangma and widow of late P. A. Sangma Soradini K. Sangma.
Last month the cabinet had decided to rename the stadium and the road in Tura to honour late P. A. Sangma. Today, was the 3rddeath anniversary of late P. A. Sangma.
Unveiling the plaque of P.A. Sangma Stadium in Dakopgre, the Chief Minister said, “P. A. Sangma had envisaged the construction of the stadium about two decades ago and had sanctioned funds from MP scheme. The stadium was fully constructed with the MP funds and was named as MP Stadium, which was later changed to Dikki Bandi Stadium. Our government decided to rename the stadium because we felt that it would be a befitting tribute to our late leader, who has contributed so much to the nation.”
He also attended a prayer service at the graveyard along with friends and well-wishers. Later in the day, he attended the memorial lecture organized by Synod College Shillong and P.A. Sangma Foundation at District Auditorium Tura, which was addressed by Chief Advisor to the Government Dr. D. D. Lapang.
Delivering the lecture, Dr. Lapang said, “P.A. Sangma has inspired generation. He has been a person with genuine concerns for the people and had always believed in working for the interest of the people. His selfless service to the nation will always be remembered.”
Recalling his association with Late Sangma, Dr. Lapang reminded the gathering to imbibe and propagate the ideals and philosophy of late Sangma to the younger generation. “Young people should learn from his work. He has demonstrated in his life that focus and dedication to work is of utmost importance,” he added.
The Chief Minister Conrad Sangma also spoke on the occasion and announced the setting up of Tribal Research Institute at Babadam in West Garo Hills, which was one of the dreams of late P.A. Sangma.
“P.A. Sangma had always desired that the tribal culture and practices of the Garos should be preserved for posterity. With this vision, in 2015 he had laid foundation for such an institute at Babadam. However, our government took the initiative further and had approached the Ministry of Tribal Affairs for setting up of the institute and the financial grant of Rs. 41 cr was sanctioned.”
The foundation stone for the Tribal Research Institute will be laid on March 5 at Babadam.
