Tura, August 31: The 2nd District-Level Inter-School Games 2026 got underway at the Hawakhana Indoor Hall in Tura on Monday, bringing together around 900 students from 42 schools across Selsella, Gambegre and Tura.
The event, organised by the District Sports Office, West Garo Hills, aims to provide young athletes with a wider platform to compete, gain exposure and develop their sporting abilities beyond the school level.
The inaugural programme was attended by Shri Vibhor Aggarwal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, as the Chief Guest, while Shri John F. Kharshiing, Working President of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, attended as the Special Guest, along with sports officials and other dignitaries.
Competitions are being conducted in eight sporting disciplines—Volleyball, Basketball, Taekwondo, Swimming, Kabaddi, Badminton, Athletics and Table Tennis—across the Under-14, Under-15 and Under-17 age categories. The tournament will culminate with the final matches on September 3.
Addressing the participants, Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal highlighted the importance of competitive sporting events in helping students assess their abilities, gain experience and develop a stronger competitive spirit. With Meghalaya set to host the National Games in the coming months, he encouraged the young athletes to set ambitious goals and aspire to compete at national and international levels.
Aggarwal also said the National Games would provide Meghalaya’s young sportspersons with valuable opportunities to witness and interact with leading athletes from across the country. Such exposure, he noted, could inspire students to pursue sports seriously and emerge as athletes of the future.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, John F. Kharshiing appreciated the strong participation from schools and acknowledged the presence of district-level sports association representatives. He pointed to the changes in Meghalaya’s sports sector since 2019, particularly following the introduction of the Meghalaya Sports Policy 2019, which was notified after a historic Cabinet meeting held in Tura in December 2019.
Kharshiing said the policy provides a structured pathway for athletes from the school level towards state-level competition, while also offering provisions such as cash incentives and scholarships. He further highlighted the revival of the Meghalaya Games in 2020 and encouraged students to use available sporting opportunities and facilities to develop their potential.
He also spoke about the High Performance Programme and the support available for developing athletes, urging the young participants to put in their maximum effort and remain committed to their sporting goals. He expressed hope that competitions such as the district-level inter-school games would help identify and nurture future champions from the region.
Meanwhile, Shri Saljagring M. Marak, Assistant Director, Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Meghalaya, said the initiative was designed to bring students from different schools onto a common competitive platform. He noted that while sporting opportunities were previously concentrated largely within individual schools, inter-school competitions now allow students to test themselves against a broader pool of talent.
According to Marak, such exposure is important not only for identifying promising athletes but also for building confidence, competitive experience and a stronger sporting culture among school students.
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Jowai, August 27, 2026: A District Level Science Seminar was organized by the District School Education Officer, West Jaintia Hills today at the District Library Auditorium, Mynthong, Jowai on the Topic “Indian Energy Basket 2047: Prospect & Challenges” The Seminar was organized with an objective of inculcating a spirit of scientific enquiry and analytical thinking among young students.
The seminar witnessed participation from 10 schools, with students presenting their knowledge and perspective on the topic.
The District School Education Officer Dr. (Smt) Wa-i-sa Sumer, while extending her best wishes to the participating students, highlighted the vision of Vikist Bharat 2047.
Ms.Ewanmisa Suting of H K Singh Memorial Secondary School, Jowai emerged as the winner of the District Level Science Seminar securing the first prize, while Mr, Rehan Rymbai of QC Springside Higher Secondary School and Ms. Iarika Gashnga of Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Secondary School, Lamin secured the second and third place respectively.
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Jowai, August 25, 2026: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), West Jaintia Hills District, conducted an Awareness Campaign-cum-Poster Painting on the topic “Ragging” under the NALSA JAGRITI Scheme, 2025, with the theme “Empowered Youth, Stronger India.” The programme was held on August 21, at the North East India Mission Association (NEIMA) Orphanage Children Home, Sahsniang, West Jaintia Hills District.
During the programme, Shri. F. B. Passah, Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel, delivered an informative speech on the topic of Ragging, highlighting its harmful effects and the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students and young persons.
The awareness session was followed by a poster-painting activity, in which the children actively participated and expressed their understanding of the issue of ragging through creative artwork. At the end of the programme, prizes were distributed to the winners in recognition of their outstanding participation and creativity.
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Jowai, August 20: The Meghalaya Society for Cultural and Folklore (MeSCaF) in collaboration with the Department of Cultural and Creative Studies, NEHU, Shillong and Kiang Nangbah Government College, Jowai celebrated World Folklore Day on August 22, at District Library Auditorium, Mynthong, Jowai.
The occasion was graced by Shri. Puramon Kynjing, Daloi Elaka Jowai as Chief Guest and Shri. Wanphrang Gassah District Librarian the Guest of Honour.
The occasion also witness the presence of Prof.Desmond Kharmawphlang, Shri. Hercules Toi, Principal KNGC , Dr. Rimika Lanong, Executive Member, Shri. Pynjanai Mallai, President and Shri. Barikupar Paswett, General Secretary of MeSCaF
Speaking as Chief Guest Daloi Puramon Kynjing highlighted the importance of preserving Meghalya's indigenous languages, musics,songs, dances and traditional practices handed down through generations. He said that the people of Meghalaya are fortunate to possess such rich cultural heritage and stresed the need to actively practice and preserve these traditions.
Daloi urged the younger generation, especially school students to value and make proper use of the knowledge and skills inherited from their ancestors, describing them as valuable gifts and talents that can be used to serve the society. He also emphasised the importance of love and respect for language, cul
ture and traditional practices.
District Librarian Shri. Wanphrang Gassah stressed the importance of keeping cultural traditions alive while embracing modern progress. He highlighted the role of younger generation in learning and carrying forward traditional songs, lang
uages, stories, art and customs.
"Folklore is not only about our past, it is also a bridge to our future, " he said, emphasising the need to preserve cultural heritage for generations to come.
Prof. Desmond Kharmawphlang said the Meghalaya Society for Cultural and Folklore (MeSCaF) despite being a young, and today marks one year of establishment, the MeSCaF has already undertaken programmes in Shillong and in Jowai this year with plans to extend activities to other parts of Meghalaya.
He stressed that folklore should not merely be given acedemic recognition or treated as a subject but that greater effort should be made to nurture, promote the traditional skill, custom and cultural practices of the people
Dr.R. Lanong spoke about the origin and significance of folklore, noting that the term "Folklore" was coined by English Scholar William Thoms in 1864. She highlighted folklore as an important means of preserving the traditional beliefs, stories, songs and cultural identify passed down through generations.
Shri. Hercules Toi in his welcomed address highlighted folklore as, a living memory that shapes community identity. He stressed the relevance under the National Education Policy (NEP) particularly in promoting indigenous knowledge system.
The event featured various activities to promote the rich folklore, cultural traditions, oral narrative and heritage of Meghalaya.
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Khliehriat, August 20: A District Level Science Seminar 2026 on the theme “Indian Energy Basket 2047: Prospect & Challenges” was today organized by the office of the District School Education Officer, East Jaintia Hills District at Jaintia Eastern College (JEC), Khliehriat.
This year’s District Level Science Seminar was graced by Director, Jaintia Eastern College (JEC), Dr. P. Nongtdu in the presence of Block Mission Coordinator (BMS), Saipung Block, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Jimi War, Assistant Executive Engineer, Sutnga Distribution Sub-Division (MePDCL), Shri Heimonjur Manner, Assistant Professor, Jaintia Eastern College (JEC), Khliehriat, Shri Nishwa Rymbai, teachers and students of participating educational institutions.
In his address, Director, Jaintia Eastern College (JEC), Dr. P. Nongtdu, while speaking on the theme, highlighted the importance of energy in driving economic development, ensuring national security and promoting sustainable development even as he stated that India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 would require a secure, diversified and sustainable energy basket capable of meeting the country’s growing requirement.
Dr Nongtdu explained that while conventional sources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas continue to contribute significantly to India’s electricity generation, the country is increasingly exploring renewable and alternative sources of energy, including solar, wind, nuclear energy, green hydrogen, electric mobility and energy storage.
Furthermore, Dr Nongtdu called upon students to conserve energy, protect the environment, pursue scientific knowledge and embrace innovation. He stressed that the collective efforts and energy of the younger generation would be instrumental in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
During the daylong Seminar, students delivered exhaustive slide presentations highlighting their thoughts and ideas on the prospects, challenges and future potential of India’s energy sector. The presentation focused on the need to strengthen the country’s energy security through sustainable, innovative and self-reliant energy solutions.
The students also discussed the opportunities and challenges associated with renewable energy, energy conservation, technological advancement and efficient utilisation of available resources.
The presentations align with India’s vision of achieving energy self-sufficiency by 2047, underscoring the importance of collective efforts, responsible energy consumption and the adoption of sustainable practices to build a secure, resilient and energy-independent India.
Subsequently, prizes were distributed to the winners of the seminar, while certificates of participation were presented to all the participating students in recognition of their active involvement.
This year’s seminar was won by Miss Suhana Paul of Ambrose Secondary School. Mr Daithrang I Dhar of Little Star Secondary School, Ladrymbai, secured the First Runner-up position while Miss Sakanipaia Siangshai of Khliehriat Higher Secondary School emerged as the Second Runner-up.
It is worth mentioning that the winner of the District Level Science Seminar will represent the district at the upcoming State Level Science Seminar scheduled to be held soon.
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Jowai, August 19: The Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSDDS) under the Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development, Government of Meghalaya, organise the Phase II Recruitment Drive at Iooksi (Kyanmynsar) today. The Drive marked the second day of the recruitment campaign, following the first recruitment drive held in Jowai.
Around 127 of aspiring youths, particularly students and eligible candidates residing in and around the area, turned up for recruitment drive. The initiative provided eligible candidates with an opportunity to enrol and receive counselling regarding the recruitment process. The recruitment is being conducted at different locations to make the opportunity more accessible to students and youths residing in the respective areas.
The next recruitment drive will be held on August 21 at Nongtalang Khlashympa Community Hall.
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Shillong, August 18: From saffron cultivation across the Northeast to mobile food-processing facilities reaching farmers in remote areas, the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) showcased its technology-driven initiatives during the monthly meeting of the Inter-Media Publicity Coordination Committee (IMPCC) held at its headquarters in Shillong, today.
The participating officials were briefed on NECTAR’s initiatives aimed at taking scientific and technological solutions closer to communities across the Northeast. The participating officials were briefed on NECTAR’s initiatives aimed at taking scientific and technological solutions closer to communities across the Northeast. Dr. Arun Kumar Sarma, Director General, NECTAR, highlighted the Centre’s work on saffron cultivation in different parts of the region, including Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Mizoram, demonstrating the potential of scientific interventions to expand agricultural opportunities.
The Centre also showcased its Mobile Food Processing Unit, developed to take processing and value-addition facilities closer to farmers in far-flung areas. The facility supports processing of agricultural produce from handling of raw materials to value addition, bottling and packaging, including tetra-pack solutions, helping improve post-harvest management and value realisation for farmers.
Following the meeting, the participating officials visited key NECTAR facilities, including the Vasundhara Soil Lab, STEM Lab, GIS Lab and Mobile Processing Unit. NECTAR officials briefed the participants on the functioning and applications of these facilities, providing a firsthand understanding of how scientific, technological and geospatial solutions are being applied to address local challenges and support communities across the Northeast.
The meeting was convened by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Shillong, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, as part of its regional IMPCC initiative aimed at strengthening communication, coordination and information sharing among Government departments, organisations and media units.
Representatives from IIM Shillong, ICAR-Umiam, NEEPCO, Census Department, MY Bharat, IMD Shillong, PIB & CBC Shillong, Soil & Water Conservation Department, Akashvani Programme Section, Akashvani North Eastern Service (NES), NEIAH and other participating organisations attended the meeting and shared updates on their ongoing programmes, achievements and upcoming activities.
The participants emphasised the need for greater inter-departmental coordination and collaborative media outreach to ensure wider dissemination of Government initiatives and public welfare programmes. Discussions focused on information sharing, coordinated publicity and exploring opportunities for joint media activities, field visits and sharing of success stories through print, electronic and digital platforms.
The IMPCC was highlighted as an effective platform for strengthening coordination among Government organisations and facilitating more prompt, accurate and people-centric communication across the Northeast.
During the meeting, it was also decided that all participating departments and organisations would observe Hindi Diwas and Hindi Fortnight during September 2026 in a befitting manner, with appropriate programmes and activities to encourage wider participation and promote the use of Hindi in official communication.
The exposure visit and interaction at NECTAR complemented the objectives of the IMPCC by providing Government and media representatives with direct insights into technology-led interventions in the region and facilitating their wider and more informed dissemination through various media platforms.
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Shillong, August 15: In a proud display of unity, culture, and patriotism,the Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya, Shri C. H. Vijayashankar, hosted the traditional “At Home” reception at Lok Bhavan, Shillong, on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day of India, commemorating a landmark year in the nation’s enduring journey of freedom and development. Held as part of the special observance during the Amrit Kaal, the programme was witnessed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, along with other dignitaries, senior government officials, defence and police personnel, artists, cultural representatives, distinguished guests and other invitees.
To begin the programme, the Hon’ble Governor of Meghalaya inaugurated the stalls and displays of various farmers, entrepreneurs and artists at the lawn of the Lok Bhavan and inspected the exhibits. This was followed by the “At Home” ceremony with which the theme was “Colors of India”, in which it was curated by the Governor’s Secretariat in collaboration with the Department of Arts & Culture which featured a colourful cultural programme showcasing the rich cultural diversity of India and Meghalaya. The programme showcased traditional and cultural performances including Jogari, Jagarna and Rouf dances by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages; Bhawai Dance and KalbeliaKeshria Balam Song by the West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, Rajasthan; “Milke Sare Bandhan Todenge Hum” by Karnataka Sangha, Mandya; Ka Shad Mastieh, the traditional Warrior Dance of the Khasi Tribe; the Wangala Harvest Traditional Folk Dance of the Garo Tribes; Bharatnatyam presentation of Vande Mataram by Prajna Kashyap from Mysore, Karnataka; Chad Kheit Soh, a traditional folk dance of the Jaintia Tribes; fromBengal “ A Vibrant Cultural Melting Pot”performancewas showcased; and a unique performance by the Jazz Band and symphony band of the Assam Rifle and of the Assam Regimental Centre Band also performed.
The occasion also witnessed the felicitation of grassroots achievers for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields. Shri Lynti Rynghang from Ri Bhoi District was recognised for Woodcraft, Smt. Norma R. Lakiang from East Khasi Hills District for Bonsai, and Shri Dirot Chambugong Marak from West Garo Hills District for Traditional Musical Instruments.The programme also announced the winners of the Flower Show, including the King of Flower Show, Queen of Flower Show and Best Stall, who were felicitated on the occasion.
The “At Home” reception at Lok Bhavan continues to uphold the spirit of Independence Day by bringing together national pride, cultural diversity and recognition of the achievements and talents of the people of Meghalaya and the country.Following the cultural programmeLok Bhavan was opened to thousands of visitors for the afternoon programme, providing citizens an opportunity to witness the beauty and heritage of the historic premises and explore the various stalls and displays showcasing the work and products of local entrepreneurs.
This year’s “At Home” reception marks a special meaning, of the larger sentiment behind the transformation of Raj Bhavan into Lok Bhavan — from the traditional notion of Raj Bhavan, the house of the ruler, to Lok Bhavan, the house of the people. By welcoming citizens into the premises on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Lok Bhavan seeks to embody the spirit of openness, participation and inclusiveness, reaffirming that the institution belongs to and serves the people.
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The Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, in association with the District Administration, Eastern West Khasi Hills, organised an Integrated Communication and Outreach Programme (ICOP) on the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan at Mairang Presbyterian Higher Secondary School, Mairang, today. A Tiranga rally was organised as part of the programme, bringing together students, officials and members of the public in a vibrant celebration of patriotism, national unity and social responsibility.
The rally was flagged off by Additional Deputy Commissioner Shri M. Diengdoh in the presence of Assistant Director, CBC, Shri Gopajit Das; Principal Shri C. War; officials from the Police Department, district administration and CBC; teachers, members of the general public; and a large number of enthusiastic students.
The rally proceeded from the school to the nearby market, with students carrying the message of Har Ghar Tiranga, unity in diversity and Nasha Mukt Bharat to the wider community. The enthusiastic participation of students and the public gave the rally a strong community outreach dimension and reinforced the role of young people in promoting positive social messages.
The rally highlighted the importance of proudly displaying the National Flag as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign and celebrating the spirit of patriotism and national unity during the Independence Day celebrations. Students actively participated in the outreach, taking the message of the Tricolour beyond the school premises and encouraging the community to join the campaign.
Addressing the gathering, ADC Shri M. Diengdoh urged students and citizens to participate actively in the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign by displaying the Tricolour at their homes, schools, offices and other prominent places. He described the National Flag as a powerful symbol of India’s unity in diversity and encouraged the youth to carry the spirit of patriotism into their everyday lives and contribute towards building a stronger and united nation.
Speaking on Nasha Mukt Bharat, Shri Diengdoh encouraged students to make informed, healthy and responsible choices. He highlighted the importance of self-discipline, positive peer influence and a supportive environment in helping young people realise their full potential. He urged the students to become ambassadors of positive change and spread the message of a healthy and drug-free lifestyle among their families, friends and communities.
Principal Shri C. War appreciated the initiative and emphasised the important role of educational institutions in nurturing responsible, confident and socially conscious young citizens. He also highlighted India’s rich diversity and the importance of strengthening the spirit of national unity among successive generations.
Resource Person SI E. Marbaniang provided students with an informative overview of substance abuse and its impact on individuals, families and society. He explained the risks associated with different forms of drugs and emphasised the importance of recognising early warning signs and seeking timely support. He encouraged students to remain alert, support their peers and make responsible decisions that safeguard their health, education and future.
A patriotic dance competition was a major attraction of the programme. Students presented vibrant and energetic performances celebrating India’s unity, diversity and spirit of patriotism. Through music, dance and creative expression, the participants beautifully conveyed their love for the nation and the message of national unity. The performances received enthusiastic appreciation from the gathering and added a colourful and celebratory dimension to the outreach programme.
The programme also featured art and quiz competitions, providing students with opportunities to creatively engage with the themes of patriotism, national unity and a drug-free India. The winners and participants were felicitated with prizes, encouraging greater participation and reinforcing the key messages of the programme.
The programme concluded with a strong message of pride in the Tricolour, unity in diversity and collective responsibility towards building a healthier and Nasha Mukt Bharat. The Tiranga rally and the various outreach activities encouraged students to carry these messages from their school to their homes and communities and emerge as young ambassadors of patriotism, positivity and social responsibility.
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The Meghalaya AIDS Control Society (MACS) on Wednesday organised an HIV/AIDS awareness programme at Lady Keane College Hall, Shillong, coinciding with the observance of International Youth Day. On the occasion, Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla launched the Statewide Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0, aimed at strengthening awareness, prevention, testing and treatment related to HIV/AIDS across the State.
Addressing the gathering, Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla called upon the people of State to reject discrimination against people living with HIV and extend support by encouraging HIV testing, timely treatment and care.
The Minister emphasised that ending HIV cannot be the responsibility of MACS alone and requires collective efforts from the Health Department, other government departments, educational institutions, local communities, civil society organisations, healthcare workers, parents, teachers and young people.
He stated that the Government of Meghalaya remains committed to ensuring that the State’s HIV response is accessible, inclusive, evidence-based and people-centred. He urged all stakeholders to take the campaign beyond the two-month campaign period and transform it into a statewide movement for awareness, prevention, testing, treatment and dignity.
Calling for wider outreach, the Minister said HIV awareness messages should reach villages, schools, colleges, households, hospitals and communities so that no person is afraid to know their HIV status, no one is denied dignity because of their HIV status, and young people have the knowledge required to protect their health.
The Minister also informed that, recognising the seriousness of HIV/AIDS, the Government of Meghalaya has approved a five-year plan to strengthen efforts in this area.
As the programme coincided with International Youth Day, Shylla highlighted the important role of young people in Meghalaya. He noted that approximately 51 per cent of the State’s population is below 20 years of age, making youth participation crucial in health awareness and prevention initiatives.
He encouraged students and Red Ribbon Clubs in colleges across the State to actively participate in HIV/AIDS awareness programmes and help disseminate accurate information among their peers and communities.
He congratulated the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, its Project Director, Dr. K. L. Iawbor, and the entire team, including field functionaries and partner organisations, for organising the campaign. He also appreciated the students of Lady Keane College and St. Edmund College for their meaningful presentations during the programme.
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Jowai, 11th August, 2026: The Deputy Commissioner Shri. Abhinav Kumar,IAS today inaugurated the Natural & Craft Mart, an SHG outlet set up by the District Mission Management Unit (DMMU), Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS), West Jaintia Hills within the premises of the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Jowai, with the aim of providing a dedicated market platform for products made by Self Help Groups (SHGs) and rural entrepreneurs.
The programme was also attended by Chief Operating Officer, Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society Shri Shanlang Lyngdoh, Project Director, DRDA and Nodal Officer DMMU Smt.B. Blah, State Mission Managers, representatives of Line Departments, CLFS, VOS, SHGs and community cadres.
Deputy Commissioner Shri. Abhinav Kumar Singh congratulated the Project Director, the DM and the entire team for the initiative. He said the occasion marked a significant milestone in improving the livelihood of the people particularly by making the district’s natural and authentic products available at a single location.
He further said that the Natural & Craft Mart would serve as one stop sources for authentic products, conveniently located in the heart of the district. He urged the SHGs to ensure the regular availability of products and maintain sufficient variety. He also stressed the importance of promoting the products and said that the team of the DC’s office along with the MSRLS would extend the necessary support to strengthen the livelihoods of the SHGs while ensuring that customers have access to authentic local products.
Project Director, DRDA and Nodal Officer DMMU Smt.B. Blah appreciated the efforts of all SHG and acknowledged their hard work in and promoting local products. She said that many products from West Jaintia Hills remain relatively unknown to consumers due to the lack of the proper platform and information on where they can be purchased. She expressed hope that the Natural & Craft Mart would help create greater awareness of local products and provide SHGs with better opportunities to market their product.
Chief Operating Officer, MSRLS, Shri Shanlang Lyngdoh emphasises the importance of customer focus stressing the need for regular availability, quality and authenticity of the products showcased at the outlet. He said plans are underway for PGS certification and barcode-based traceability to assure customers of the quality and origin of the products. He also encouraged local residents to visit the outlet and taste the products.
District Mission Manager, MSRLS Shri. R. Shadap, in his welcome address, said that the opening of the Natural & Craft Mart was not merely the opening of an outlet but an important step towards creating a sustainable market platform for our Self-Help Groups and rural entrepreneurs. He informed that the SHGs across the district are producing a wide range of products, including Lakadong Turmeric, Red Rice Tea, honey, spices, processed food, traditional products and handicrafts. However, he emphasised that production alone was not enough as SHGs also needed access to a reliable market.
The Natural & Craft Mart, he said,was an effort to bridge that gap by providing a dedicated space where SHG products can be displayed, promoted and sold and urged the SHG members and CLFS to take ownership by maintaining the product quality, improving packaging and branding, and understanding customer needs. He added that the vision was to ensure that products from the district reach wider markets and create sustainable income opportunities for rural women.
Shri. Kynsai Kharkongor, DFS SISD highlighted the contribution of over 5000 Self-help Groups, 284 Village Organisations (VOs) and 25 Village Federation (VLFs) in the field of health, livelihood and nutrition. He said that their initiatives including natural farming, and convergence with government departments have contributed significantly to local development.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Shri.W Pale DFS, Non-farm.
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MTTA Academy, Malki, Shillong, August 8: Under the MPOWER Training of Master Trainers Programme, which is currently in year 2 of implementation, a six-day intensive training was successfully conducted from 3rd to 8th August 2026 at the Meghalaya Teacher Training Academy (MTTA), Malki, Shillong. The programme focused on strengthening the capacity of Master Trainers in the key thematic areas of Life Skills, Financial Literacy, Mental Health and Sexual and Reproductive Health, marking an important milestone in the implementation of the MPOWER programme and Meghalaya’s continued efforts to strengthen teacher professional development, promote holistic adolescent development, and enhance learning outcomes across the state. The training was supported by MTTA, which provided the necessary institutional support and training facilities, while the technical sessions were delivered by the MPOWER programme partners, Magic Bus India Foundation and WorldBeing India.
Resource persons from Magic Bus India Foundation and WorldBeing India conducted the six-day capacity-building programme. A total of 65 Master Trainers from seven districts, namely East Khasi Hills, Ri Bhoi, East Jaintia Hills, South West Khasi Hills, West Garo Hills, East Garo Hills and North Garo Hills, participated in the intensive training programme. The programme is designed to strengthen knowledge, skills and practical facilitation competencies required to effectively lead the next phase of teacher training under the MPOWER programme. Following the successful completion of the programme, the Master Trainers will effectively train 1,729 teachers from SSA and Government Schools in their respective districts, supporting the effective implementation of the MPOWER programme.
"The MTTA Master Trainer training marks an important step towards strengthening teacher capacity across Meghalaya. By equipping our Master Trainers with practical facilitation skills and a deeper understanding of Life Skills, Mental Health, Sexual and Reproductive Health, and Financial Literacy Education, we are laying the foundation for more inclusive and learner-centred classrooms. I sincerely appreciate the dedicated efforts of the MPOWER team and our partner organisations in making this training a success." Said Dr David M. Nongrum, Associate Professor, DERT & Additional Director, Meghalaya Teacher Training Academy (MTTA)
The training has equipped participants with the knowledge, skills, and practical facilitation techniques required to deliver effective, high-quality teacher training in Life Skills, Financial Literacy, Mental Health, and Sexual and Reproductive Health. These thematic areas are integral components of the programme and contribute to the holistic development of adolescents by fostering resilience, responsible decision-making, emotional well-being, healthy relationships, financial awareness and safe and inclusive learning environments. Further, through these components, participants developed a deeper understanding of adolescent development, learner-centred teaching practices and inclusive pedagogical approaches, while strengthening the facilitation skills required to deliver engaging, meaningful and impactful training for teachers across Meghalaya.
The programme commenced with an orientation on the MPOWER programme, followed by the inaugural address delivered by Smti. J.U. Kharpuri, MCS, Director, DERT, who emphasised the importance of investing in teacher capacity as a cornerstone of educational transformation. Throughout the six-day programme, participants engaged in interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, peer-learning activities, mock facilitation sessions and classroom simulations designed to strengthen their thematic understanding and facilitation skills. The experiential and participatory learning approach enhanced the confidence, knowledge and practical competencies of the Master Trainers.
The concluding day of the programme included a comprehensive review of key learnings, a post-training assessment to evaluate participants’ progress, and the preparation of district-level teacher training plans to guide the effective rollout of the next phase of the programme.
"The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by the Master Trainers throughout the programme have been truly encouraging. We hope that the learnings on Life Skills, Mental Health, Sexual and Reproductive Health, and Financial Literacy Education will enable teachers to create a safe, supportive, inclusive and engaging learning environment where every child learns and feels accepted." Said Dr. Caraline Y. Kharmalki, Assistant Professor, DERT & Nodal Officer, MPOWER
The MTTA reaffirmed its commitment to building a skilled and future-ready teaching workforce capable of responding to the evolving needs of learners by strengthening teacher capacity and promoting innovative, inclusive and child-centred pedagogical practices. MTTA continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Meghalaya’s vision of quality education that equips every child with the knowledge, skills and values required to thrive in an ever-changing world.
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Shillong, August 5: The Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Secretariat Administration Department (SAD) and Trestle Labs Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, on Tuesday organised a sensitisation programme on "Assistive Technology and Digital Accessibility for Government Employees" under the theme "Promoting an Inclusive Workplace for Employees with Visual Impairment."
Addressing the gathering, Adviser to the Government of Meghalaya on Social Welfare, Paul Lyngdoh, stressed the importance of creating an inclusive work environment and leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to make government services and workplaces more accessible to persons with disabilities.
Congratulating the organisers, Lyngdoh said the initiative would help the State Government build a more inclusive ecosystem through the use of assistive technology and digital accessibility. He also appreciated the efforts of the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the Secretariat Administration Department and Trestle Labs for organising the programme.
Highlighting the need to change perceptions towards persons with visual impairment, Lyngdoh said eyesight alone does not determine a person's vision or potential.
He said there are many people with perfect eyesight but no vision, while others with little or no eyesight possess extraordinary vision. He urged government employees to adopt a more inclusive and empathetic approach in their workplaces.
Lyngdoh also encouraged employees with disabilities not to view their disabilities as limitations but to recognise their abilities and potential to contribute meaningfully to society.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary of the Secretariat Administration Department (SAD), Swapnil Tembe, IAS, highlighted the initiatives undertaken by the department to make the Secretariat more accessible to persons with disabilities. He spoke about measures such as the construction of ramps, improved restroom facilities and other accessibility features aimed at ensuring greater convenience for persons with disabilities.
Tembe also said that if there were any suggestions for further improving accessibility, they could be brought to his notice so that the department could take appropriate steps to enhance facilities and make the Secretariat, as well as other government offices, more accessible to persons with disabilities.
On the occasion, Paul Lyngdoh handed over the Kibo assistive technology device to the Secretariat Administration Department for official use.
The programme was also attended by Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Lyngkor Kynjing, MCS; Director of Social Welfare, Saloni Verma, IAS; officials from various government departments; invited guests; and other participants.
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Shillong, August 3: As part of the nationwide Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat campaign, MY Bharat, East Khasi Hills organised the district-level Nasha Mukt Competitions at St. Edmund’s College yesterday, to encourage youth participation in the fight against drug abuse. The event brought together students and young people from across the district to spread awareness against drug abuse through creative expression and reinforce the message of a healthy, drug-free society.
Eight competitions centred on the theme of drug abuse prevention were conducted, providing participants with an opportunity to showcase their creativity through art, literature and performance. The competitions witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and youth, reflecting their commitment to the cause of building a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Bipul Das, DSP (Crime), East Khasi Hills, urged the youth to stay away from substance abuse and become responsible citizens. Emphasising the importance of collective action, he encouraged participants to take the lead in creating awareness and strengthening community efforts to combat the menace of drugs.
The programme was organised by District Youth Officer, My Bharat Shillong, Ministry of Youth Affairs, with the support of the dedicated MY Bharat team, ensuring the successful conduct of the competitions and awareness activities.
A special highlight of the programme was the visit of the district-level winners to Raj Bhavan, Shillong, where they had the opportunity to meet the Hon'ble Governor of Meghalaya. During the visit, the participants presented a powerful street play conveying the message of drug prevention and the importance of leading a healthy, addiction-free life. The performance was widely appreciated for effectively promoting the campaign's objectives and inspiring collective action against substance abuse.
The winners of the district-level competitions will represent East Khasi Hills at the State-Level Competitions. The state-level winners will subsequently compete at the National-Level Competitions under the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat campaign.
Experts working in the field of drug abuse prevention also delivered informative sessions on the harmful effects of substance abuse, preventive measures and the importance of making informed life choices. The sessions provided valuable insights into the social, physical and psychological impact of drug addiction and highlighted the role of awareness in prevention.
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