Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 53/07

TWO MINUTES SILENCE OBSERVED

Along with the rest of the country, Meghalaya today observed two minutes silences in memory of those who gave their lives in the struggle for India’s freedom at a function held today at the premises of the Meghalaya Main Secretariat Building, Shillong. The function was attended by Meghalaya Chief Secretary, Mr. S K Tiwari, Principal Secretary, Mr. W M S Pariat, Commissioner & Secretary, Mrs. R V Suchiang, Director General of Police, Mr. W R Marbaniang besides other senior government officials.

The function started with the “Savshan” position by the personnel of Meghalaya Home Guards & Civil Defence followed by wreath laying ceremony at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi by Government officials. A two minute silence was observed, while all vehicular traffic and work came to a standstill.

Meanwhile, the officers and staff of the Directorate of Information & Public Relations also observed two minutes silence in memory of those who gave their lives in the struggle of India’s freedom.

Press Release No. 54/07

AWARENESS PROGRAMME ON AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK

Meghalaya Minister for C & RD, Smti. Irene Lyngdoh attended the awareness programme on Agriculture and Livestock Management organized by the Ialumlang Cluster Level Federation of Bosco Reach Out, Mawthawpdah, on January 24, 2007 at Mawthawpdah, West Khasi Hills District.

Speaking on the occasion, Smti. Lyngdoh lauded the initiative taken by the Federation in organizing the programme to encourage the people in this very remote area to stand on their own feet. She said that by forming Self Help Groups (SHGs), people are aware of the need to enhance the economy of the family as well as eradicate poverty. Informing that the Government is providing assistance to these groups through various schemes and training, she called upon members of SHGs to work in the spirit of unity and cooperation so that they flourish in life.

Press Release No. 55/07

LOK ADALAT FOR SBI BORROWERS

For the first time in the District, the State Bank of India (SBI) in collaboration with the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Ri Bhoi District, Nongpoh organized a Lok Adalat for the SBI Borrowers from its branches at Patharkhmah, Khanapara, Jorabad, Byrnihat, Nongpoh, Nayabunglow and Barapani at the Science Hall, Nongpoh on January 29, 2007. The Deputy Commissioner of the District, Mr. S. F. Khongwir was the Chief Guest on the day.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Khongwir expressed his gratitude to the SBI for organizing the Lok Adalat in the District which he said is the best means of negotiation forum between the borrowers and the Bank.

It may be mentioned that out of 379 cases, 189 were settled amounting to Rs. 64.13 lakhs.