Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma recalls father’s optimism at NPP’s Foundation Day celebration

The town of Williamnagar came alive as people from every corner of Northeast, along with attendees from across the country, gathered to commemorate the 78th Birth Anniversary of Late P.A. Sangma and the 13th Foundation Day of the National People’s Party (NPP).
The celebration was held at the Rongrenggre playground and witnessed an overwhelming turnout, reflecting the enduring respect and admiration for the late leader.
The day-long programme began in the morning with a singing competition, followed by the release of a coffee table book and the inauguration of the P.A. Sangma Photo Gallery.
The formal proceedings commenced at 1 p.m. with the singing of Oh Ang Aman Asong, a song composted by Beston Momin and recreated by popular band Nokpante. The song adopted as anthem by NPP in Garo Hills.
Wife of Late P.A. Sangma Soradini K. Sangma paid floral tribute, which was joined by other dignitaries including NPP chief and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
The welcome address was delivered by Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak.
During the event, over 300 new members from various political parties who had recently joined the NPP were felicitated.
In recognition of sporting talent, several athletes from East Garo Hills were honoured with the prestigious P.A. Sangma Achievers’ Award. To further acknowledge the contribution and memory of the late leader, a special felicitation was also accorded to his wife, Soradini K. Sangma.
Others who were felicitated included Sonelal Kol, N K Gauri and Breston Momin. They were close associate of late PA Sangma and were instrumental in shaping the formation of the party.
Several distinguished leaders addressed the gathering, sharing memories and reflections on the life and legacy of P.A. Sangma.
Thangwang Wangham, State President of Arunachal Pradesh NPP, recalled his close association with Sangma, describing him as the true leader of the Northeast. He urged the gathering to strengthen the NPP and carry forward its mission.
Rajya Sabha MP W.R. Kharluki shared his experiences of working alongside Sangma and highlighted his deep concern for the welfare of people and the security personnel who stood by him.
Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Snaiwbhalang Dhar, expressed regret at not having had the opportunity to work directly with Sangma but acknowledged his far-sighted vision, ideas, and legacy, which he said continue to shape the future of Meghalaya.
Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Thomas A. Sangma, emphasized that Sangma’s leadership was defined by his commitment to the welfare of tribal, indigenous, and marginalized communities, adding that his contributions extended far beyond Garo Hills to the entire Northeast.
National Working President of NPP, James K. Sangma, expressed gratitude to leaders from different parts of the Northeast who attended the event, calling their presence a fitting tribute to the late leader.
National President of NPP and Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, shared personal memories of accompanying his father in organizing the party in Manipur. He recounted how, despite only two people attending their initial meeting, his father’s optimism turned the moment into the foundation of a growing movement.
Describing P.A. Sangma as a man undeterred by challenges and full of positivity, Conrad stated that it was through his father’s leadership that the NPP had grown to its current stature. He noted with pride that the people of the Northeast had embraced both P.A. Sangma and his party, making it a matter of honour for the people of Garo Hills.
Concluding his speech, Conrad reflected on the meaning of his father’s name, Purno, which means “complete,” and said that his father had indeed lived a complete and meaningful life.
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