SHILLONG, Oct 15: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday urged the younger generation to uphold the values and principles of those who had contributed to society, maintaining that genuine recognition meant carrying forward their legacies rather than merely remembering their names.
He was speaking at the centenary celebration of Rilbong, which marked 100 years of its history, cultural diversity and contributions to Shillong and Meghalaya.
Sangma attended the programme as the chief guest, while MLA Sanbor Shullai was the guest of honour.
The programme brought together community representatives, political leaders, businesspersons, award recipients and their families from Shillong and other parts of the country.
In his keynote address, Sangma said the individuals being honoured had demonstrated initiative, determination and commitment in pursuing their goals despite challenges.
He observed that while many people could identify problems and suggest solutions, meaningful change depended on those willing to take responsibility and work consistently towards their objectives.
The chief minister urged the younger generation to carry forward the legacies of the awardees by practising the principles and values they had upheld. He said genuine recognition went beyond remembering names and required following the ideals demonstrated by those being honoured.
Sangma also emphasised discipline and time management, saying he had insisted that all 25 awardees be recognised during the programme rather than reducing the number of presentations because of time constraints.
Welcoming the gathering, Manas Chaudhuri, president of the organising committee, said the centenary was an opportunity to reflect on Rilbong’s journey and recognise individuals whose contributions had helped shape Shillong into a cosmopolitan city.
He said Rilbong was formed in 1925, with settlement beginning in 1927.
Describing the locality as a resilient community, Chaudhuri said it had maintained peace and harmony over the decades, including during periods of unrest in Shillong.
He added that the celebrations aimed to recognise contributions extending beyond the locality and reflect on Shillong’s development since its establishment under British rule in 1864.
Highlighting Rilbong’s contribution to public life, Chaudhuri noted that the community had produced legislators, a cabinet minister, decorated Army officers, educators and other professionals. He attributed these achievements to the emphasis on education and the values passed down through generations.
Shullai also addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of the centenary and Rilbong’s contribution to the social and cultural life of Shillong.
DP Wahlang, who chaired the programme, delivered the concluding speech, bringing the celebration to a close.
As part of the celebration, the state government extended financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund to the Rilbong Sanatan Hindu Dharma Sabha.
Earlier, the programme began with a bilingual song celebrating the tribes of Meghalaya, reflecting the state’s cultural diversity and spirit of unity.