Three Northeastern States – Tripura,
Manipur, and Meghalaya – marked their 52nd Statehood Day on Sunday, celebrating
achievements and progress since January 21, 1972. Prime Minister Narendra Modi
extended his greetings to the States, wishing prosperity, harmony, and
continued advancement.
In Tripura, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha
emphasized the State’s commitment to follow Prime Minister Modi’s vision of running
the State akin to ‘Ram Rajya,’ where justice reaches the last mile and
individuals have the opportunity to express their opinions.
CM Saha highlighted the State’s
infrastructural developments, including highways, information technology,
railways, and airways, positioning Tripura as one of the most benefited States
in the Northeast. Expressing gratitude for PM Modi’s initiatives, the CM credited
these developments to the central leadership.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh,
during the Statehood Day Celebration, appreciated PM Modi and Home Minister
Amit Shah for crucial decisions related to ending the Free Movement Regime,
border fencing with Myanmar, and conducting the National Register of Citizens in
Manipur.
CM Singh condemned recent attacks on
civilians, emphasizing that armed individuals challenging unity and integrity
would face a united response from the indigenous people of the State. He
expressed readiness for dialogue but urged an end to violence against
civilians.
In Meghalaya, CM Conrad K Sangma
highlighted the State’s developmental initiatives, revealing a substantial
increase in state expenditure over the last five years.
He pointed out that government spending
had more than doubled, reaching close to ₹21,000 crore in the fiscal year
2023-2024. CM Sangma shared achievements in road connectivity, educational
infrastructure, and announced Meghalaya Day Awards for various categories,
recognizing individuals for their outstanding contributions.
As part of Meghalaya’s Statehood Day
celebrations, Governor Phagu Chauhan released the State Anthem, composed by
Neil Nongkynrih, with indigenous instrumentation by Shillong-based folk-fusion
band Summersalt and NOKPANTE of the Garo hills. The anthem, rooted in
indigenous rhythms, incorporates local words and melodies, providing lyrical
representation to both Khasi and Garo communities.
On the occasion, the Meghalaya Day
Awards for 2023 was announced that recognizes contributions in arts,
literature, social services, and sports.
Risingbor Kurkalang was conferred U
Tirot Sing Award for Arts & Literature, Dr Delphine G Momin received the Pa
Togan Sangma Award for Social Services while Phrangki Buam got U Kiang Nangbah
Award for Sports & Games.
At least 15 individuals received the
Governor’s Police Medal and six the Chief Minister’s Disaster Response Medal
for outstanding service, highlighting their commitment to the State’s progress.
And 21 were awarded the Meghalaya Day Excellence awards 2023 on the day.
