Shillong, August 15: Meghalaya Chief Minister Mr Conrad K Sangma inhis address on the 72th India Independence Day in Polo Ground Shillong said that “I convey my heart-felt greetings to the people of Meghalaya as they join us in the celebrations here as well as in other parts of the State”.
He said going back to the pages of history, we fondly recall and recollect with gratitude the contribution of great sons and daughters of India like Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhai Patel and many others who provided the leadership to liberate the country from foreign rule.
Mr Conrad said that on this day we also remember and recollect with a strong sense of pride, the personal contributions by the patriots of our own State- U Tirot Sing, U Kiang Nongbah and Pa Togan Sangma, and other patriots of our tribes for their selflessness and dedication in their struggle against colonial rule. Today the country is free, because of their sacrifice. Today as we commemorate our freedom fighters, let us imbibe their spirit, by re-dedicating ourselves to the service of our State and our Nation.
In his speeches the Chief Minister said Great nations can be built only with the contribution and hard work of one and all. However, 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.
“I 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. The Government is fully aware of its responsibility and will deal with these challenges”.
The Government is committed to the ideals of peace and prosperity and all round development of the State. 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.
Meghalaya has always been known for its quality education. Our endeavour will be to take it to a higher level especially in our rural areas.
Peace and prosperity can be ensured only when law and order is maintained. This fundamental aspect of administration has been given utmost priority by Government. We have to protect our fragile eco-system. The philosophy of sustainable development has to be ingrained in letter and spirit in governance.
Building a society, which is inclusive and progressive, is a concern of one and all. I urge non-governmental organization, people of Meghalaya to do all they can to build a society which is inclusive, progressive and do all round effort to defeat the forces which want to spoil harmony, good will and brotherhood among the communities, groups, regions. He said.
