“Whatever cooperation you seek from Raj Bhavan, we are with you”.
Shillong, Sep 3: Governor CH Vijayashankar on Tuesday said that education and promotion of cottage and agro-based industries are the two key areas for the state’s development.
“Education should be accessible to everyone, and we must ensure the flourishing of cottage and agro-based industries, which are vital for the economic empowerment of our communities,” he said as he addressed the local community and women’s self-help group at Mawphlang in East Khasi Hills.
The governor visited the village on the invitation of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and was accompanied by the council chief Pyniaid Sing Syiem, deputy chief executive member PN Syiem, MDC Charles Marngar and the Lyngdoh Hima Mawphlang CA Lyngdoh.
Expressing appreciation for the cultural and environmental heritage of Meghalaya, Vijayashankar after his visit to Mawphlang sacred groves highlighted the critical importance of forest preservation, stressing that the forests are not just a source of ecological balance but also hold deep cultural and medicinal significance.
“Meghalaya is a hub of medicinal plants,” he noted, urging the community to continue to protect and cherish these invaluable resources.
During his address, Vijayashankar praised the tribal people and Khasi Society’s traditional institutions, referring to them as the true lovers of nature who teach the world its real value. He drew parallels between the traditions of his native place and those of Meghalaya, describing the state as “Heaven on Earth” owing to its rich traditions and natural heritage.
The governor also lauded the matrilineal form of society in Meghalaya, where women play a central role in maintaining societal harmony and passing down traditions. He called on the youth to uphold the traditional values bestowed by their ancestors, emphasizing that this is the path to building a better society.
In conclusion, the governor assured the people of Meghalaya of his full support, stating, “Whatever cooperation you seek from Raj Bhavan, we are with you.”
Vijayashankarr also visited the Public Health and Engineering Inspection Bungalow and met the officials where he was briefed about the Great Shillong Water Supply Scheme and held discussions on ways to improve water supply in the state.