Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 288/08

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATED IN THE STATE

Together with the rest of the country, the 61st Anniversary of the Independence Day of India is also celebrated in different parts of Meghalaya with pomp and patriotic fervour.

In the State Headquarter, Shillong, Meghalaya Chief Minister, Dr Donkupar Roy unfurled the national tricolour and took the Rashtriya salute of the marching contingents at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Polo Ground, Shillong.

Reminding the people about the struggle and sacrifice made by the leaders who led the country in its freedom struggle, Dr Roy said that the people of the country should renew their commitment to make the country strong, vibrant and prosperous.

Besides, highlighting the different achievements and programmes of the State Government, Dr Roy informed that in the Agriculture sector, the State Government will have a ‘farmer first’ approach that seeks to increase investment in the sector and also to enhance food production and security and encourage the growth and diversification of agricultural activities. He also said that focus will be on the expanding of traditional base in ginger, turmeric and cashew production in high value horticulture and floriculture. He informed that the State government intends to establish Meghalaya as the ‘fruit and flower State’ not only in the North East, but in the country as a whole.

Dr Roy also said that Political stability, peace and harmonious environment are essential for growth and development. He said that the Government will provide the political stability and ensure that law and order is maintained. He appealed to the people to join hands with the government in maintaining peace and for ensuring that the process of development is not distracted or hindered.

With regard to the education sector in the State, Dr Roy said that it is the main objective of the State Government to make Shillong a ‘Knowledge City’ and with the establishment of different institutes of National importance in the State, Shillong will definitely be in the map of renowned educational institutions in the country.

Dr Roy also informed that the government is seized of the problems of the Inter State boundary and efforts are being made by both the State governments to find an amicable solution to resolve the differences and to find out ways and means to maintain peace and harmony along the border.

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