Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 115/24

CULTURAL PROGRAMME ORGANISED AT RAJ BHAVAN

Commemorating the 77th and 89th foundation days of Himachal Pradesh and Odisha, respectively, a cultural programme was today organised by Raj Bhavan Shillong, in collaboration with the Department of Arts and Culture, Government of Meghalaya, and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Shillong.

The Hon'ble Governor of Meghalaya, Shri Phagu Chauhan graced the occasion as the Chief Guest in the presence of the Principal Secretary to the Governor, Shri. Harish Chandra Chaudhary, IFS and other dignitaries and invites.

The Hon’ble Governor expressed his best wishes to both the states and hoped that they will continue to move ahead towards greater peace and prosperity.

The occasion showcased melodious tunes, dances, and artistic expressions emblematic of these states, highlighting their unique heritage and culture. Guests also enjoyed cuisine representing the two states' culinary delights. Additionally, a video message from the Hon’ble Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shri. Shiv Pratap Shukla was screened during the event.

It may be reminded that the foundation day celebrations are being held in line with the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative of the Government of India, which aims to foster stronger connections and promote mutual understanding among people from different states and Union Territories.

Press Release No. 116/24

DUL DOKA VOTER AWARENESS PROGRAMME HELD IN TURA

In view of the General Elections to 2-Tura Parliamentary (ST) Constituency, the Voter Awareness programme was organized at Tura Super Market on 15th April, 2024. The programme was known as “Dul Doka” which was organized using the Garo Traditional method of spreading information through drum beats to educate the voters and enhance better participation in the electoral process. The “Dul Doka” programme has attracted a huge crowd and many people young and old visiting the market area stopped by and participated in the awareness programme.

It may be mentioned that the programme was organized by CEO, Meghalaya in collaboration with the District Administration, West Garo Hills and A'chik Theatre Group, Tura as part of the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaign ahead of the General Election to the Lok Sabha, 2024.

Speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, Tura Jagdish Chelani urged all the eligible voters to come out in large numbers to vote on the polling day on 19th April, 2024. Stressing on the importance of voting and adding that there has been less voting percentage in few polling stations in the previous elections, he urged everyone to exercise their voting rights and thereby make an effort to increase and achieve 100 percent turnout in this Lok Sabha Election.

Meanwhile, the Secretary, Mothers Union, Tura Sume B Sangma spoke about the responsibility of every citizen and to exercise their franchise on polling day and elect their representative. She also mentioned about the different qualities of being a leader, to choose their leader wisely and also informed about ethical voting and the practice of free and fair means during the elections.

The District officials, members of the SVEEP campaign were among others who participated during the programme

Footballs engraved with election slogans were also distributed to the Guest and other participants during the programme.