Meghalaya CM attends the 3rd Annual Conference of Meghalaya Hajong Welfare Association at Purakhasia

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 1, 2025

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma attended the Open Session of the 3rd Annual Conference of the Meghalaya Hajong Welfare Association (MHWA) at Purakhasia, South West Garo Hills. He was joined by Ian Botham K Sangma, MLA of 55-Salmanpara LAC, Subir Marak, MLA of 52-Rangsakona LAC, and Sanjay A Sangma, MLA of 54-Mahendraganj LAC, along with community leaders and members of the Hajong tribe.

In his address, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to inclusive development, ensuring equal opportunities for all communities. He emphasized the importance of such conferences in understanding the unique challenges faced by different tribes and pledged support for their upliftment.

A key highlight of the event was the submission of a memorandum by the MHWA, outlining key demands for the development of the Hajong community. In response, the Chief Minister announced a Rs 7 lakh sanction from the Chief Minister’s Special Grant for the successful execution of the conference and an additional Rs 24 lakh for the completion of the Girls’ Hostel at Akhongre, Tura, bringing the total sanctioned amount to Rs 48 lakh. He also announced funding for a dedicated ambulance for Purakhasia Anchalic MHWA and assured the construction of a temporary river protection wall from Dhubakora, Puran Bazar to Genapara.

On infrastructure, Chief Minister Sangma assured that the demand for a hanging bridge connecting Genapara to Dhubakona via Sosanghat would be taken up under the state’s Suspension Bridges Program to improve rural connectivity. He also acknowledged the need for better roads and public facilities in Hajong-dominated areas.

Responding to the Hajong community’s request for increased educational support, the Chief Minister assured that scholarships and other opportunities for Hajong students would be prioritized. He also encouraged Hajong women and weavers to utilize assistance under the CM Elevate Program, stating that the government is working to simplify the application process for state schemes at the block level.

The Chief Minister also emphasized the importance of preserving Hajong culture, assuring support for documentation and cultural promotion initiatives. He recognized the Hajong community’s contributions to Meghalaya’s development, particularly in agriculture, weaving, and public administration, and reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering them through targeted policies and programs.

The two-day conference featured cultural performances, exhibitions showcasing Hajong heritage, and discussions on economic and social development. The Meghalaya Hajong Welfare Association expressed gratitude to the government for addressing key community concerns and reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside state authorities for the upliftment of the Hajong people.

With key announcements and the assurance of continued government support, the 3rd Annual Conference of the Meghalaya Hajong Welfare Association concluded on a positive note, strengthening the commitment to the growth and empowerment of the Hajong community in Meghalaya.