Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 203/18

INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY CELEBRATED IN SHILLONG

International Women’s Day was observed here today at U Soso Tham Auditorium which was graced by Director, Social Welfare as the Chief Guest. The function was organized by District Social Welfare Office, East Khasi Hills in collaboration with State Resource Centre, Social Welfare Department. The theme of International Women’s Day this year is Time is Now: Rural and Urban activists transforming women’s lives. Speaking to the gathering during her Inaugural Speech, Director, Social Welfare, R M Kurbah said that in sync with the theme the day calls for all of us to be social activists for the cause of women. She commended the activities of various NGOs who have had the courage to stand against the atrocities meted out to women. The Director also said that while it is a privilege to be a woman the dreams of the family rests on the shoulders of the woman adding that the woman is a symbol of utmost perfection handling multi tasks at a time. She called for starting women’s empowerment from the home itself and said that sons and brothers should be educated to treat women with respect and dignity. Earlier, the Chief Guest also felicitated Ama Mary Kharbuki with the Outstanding Woman Achievement. The students of Martin Luther Christian University, Department of Social Work, presented a short skit on Domestic Violence during the occasion. Among others who spoke were I Warjri, Mission Director, State Resource Centre for Women and A M Pariat, Secretary, District Legal Services Authority.

Press Release No. 206/18

CHIEF MINISTER ATTENDS REGIONAL COLLOQUIUM

Meghalaya Chief Minister, Shri. Conrad K. Sangma has urged the youth of the State to look for opportunities not only within the State but also beyond it by taking advantage of the rich resources that the region has to offer. He said that the youth of the region have the potential to compete and must think beyond reservation and strive hard to achieve their goals. During his address today at the Regional Colloquium held at Pastoral Centre, Shillong organised by CBCI office for Tribal Affairs in collaboration with North East Office for Tribal Affairs, the Chief Minister stated that most of the tribal areas in the country are economically backward and neglected. However, with social media penetration, the mindset of the people is changing for the better, he added. “Our Government’s commitment is to accord more thrust on the youth sector and required policies to address the issues and challenges are being worked out to ensure that our youth are productive”, the Chief Minister said. He said that the theme of the colloquium - “Tribals Towards Unity, Equity and Sustainable Development with Human Rights Approaches”, is very close to his political belief and ideology, and assured that all support would be extended by the Government to address issues concerning the welfare of tribals. Expressing concern on the challenges and issues related to development and welfare of tribals, the Chief Minister said, “Our people are very simple and committed. Many think that we are not enterprising but if we are given an opportunity, we are equally talented and enterprising”. “Through entrepreneurship activities, the tribal society can be uplifted. Our Government is committed and will work closely with like-minded organisations to ensure that there is productive growth in Meghalaya”, he added.

Press Release No. 207/18

CM ATTENDS INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON RECENT ADVANCES IN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY

Meghalaya Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K. Sangma today attended the International Seminar on Recent Advances in Educational Psychology held at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that efforts are on to bring forth the Meghalaya State Education Policy with the Government engaging different stakeholders including educationists and institutions for the purpose. He also expressed concern on hurdles, which have posed a challenge for achieving quality education at elementary and secondary levels in the rural areas of the State. The government would ensure that thrust is put on improvement and enhancement of the quality of education in the State, he said while also expressing optimism that there will be a turnaround in the situation in the near future. He said that the core focus of the Government would be to accelerate the momentum of growth with proper implementation of the programmes. “Every Rupee spent by the Government has to be accounted and should translate into productive outcome. We have a vision for the State of Meghalaya and with right approach we will do our best to achieve the desired goals with a concerted effort and effective monitoring system in place”, the Chief Minister said. Talking about Act East Policy, the Chief Minister said that the vast opportunities of trade and business with Bangladesh could open new vistas for development and ensure socio-economic upliftment for the people of the State. “Our Government would focus on Look South and would engage with South Asian Nations to open business, trade and cultural relations”, he added. He also sought cooperation and partnership from Universities and academicians to come up with suggestions and feedbacks on different sectors, so that the Government will be able to take corrective measures in areas of concern. Retired Prof P. K. Gupta of the Department of Education, NEHU, Shillong delivered the keynote address, while Vice Chancellor P.K Srivastava in his speech spoke at length on different initiatives taken by the University to reach out to the people of the State.