Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 491/15

96TH GARO LABOUR CORPS DAY OBSERVED

Shillong, July 16, 2015: In order to show respect and honour to the departed souls of those Garos who died while going to France to help the British during the First World War, the 96th Garo Labour Corps Day was observed here today at Cenotaph, Lower Babupara, West Garo Hills, Tura. The function was organized by the Tura Municipal Board, Tura.

Observing the 96th Garo Labour Corps Day, Chairman, Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, GHADC, Mr. P. K. Sangma, Deputy Chairman, Meghalaya State Planning Board, Mr. Greaterson Areng, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, Tura Mr. Pravin Bakshi and other dignitaries placed wreath at the memorial Cenotaph at Babupara, Tura which was followed by a Salami in honour of the departed souls by the District Police, Tura and 2ndMLP Battalion, Goeragre. A two minutes silence was also observed in their fond memory.

Speaking at the function as Chief Guest, Mr. P. K. Sangma reminded that the youth of the present day generation should inculcate the sense of responsibility from our forefathers and their great love for the motherland which can be seen from their noble work. He further stated that our forefathers have set an example on how the people or nation should come forward and rise to the situation to protect their land and people when emergencies arise.

Expressing concern about the present scenario of the region he urged the people to cooperate and work for the peace and progress of the region in particular.

Deputy Chairman, State Planning Board and Guest of Honour at the function, Mr. Greaterson Areng appreciated and congratulated the renovation works at the cenotaph site. He called upon the people of the region to dedicate and contribute for the welfare of the people so that their noble work is remembered in the near future.

Mr. Pravin Bakshi, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, Tura termed this historic day as one of the most important day after Independence Day and Republic Day in the history of the Garos. The celebration which marks the arrival of brave Garos from their Service in France encapsulates the sacrifice of the people and their indomitable courage, he added. Moreover, he expressed his admiration for the courage and determination they possessed to fight for a cause hundred years back and the capacity to deliver their service against all odds.

Earlier in the programme, Mr. D. N. Sangma, Chairman, Tura Municipal Board, welcomed the gathering while Mr. Z. J. Sangma, Chief Executive Officer, Tura Municipal Board proposed the vote of thanks. Melodious patriotic songs were also presented by various groups during the programme.