Tura, May 19: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday said the youth are Meghalaya’s “greatest strength” as he inaugurated the newly relocated 41 Meghalaya Battalion NCC at Cherangre in Tura, describing the occasion as a major step toward empowering young people in the state.
The inauguration programme began with the reception of the Chief Minister, followed by a Guard of Honour, signing of the visitors’ book, ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling of the commemorative plaque, and a tree plantation drive. The event also featured a prayer dance by NCC cadets, experience-sharing sessions by former cadets, felicitation ceremonies, and cultural performances.
Addressing the gathering, Conrad Sangma highlighted the role of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) in instilling discipline, leadership, patriotism, and character among young people.
Calling the inauguration a “momentous occasion,” he said the establishment of the battalion in Tura was “almost like a dream come true.”
“Youth are Meghalaya’s greatest strength. If we provide them with the right opportunities, exposure, and support, they can compete with the best not only in the country but across the world,” the Chief Minister said.
Sharing personal memories from his childhood, Sangma recalled how the discipline and dedication of men and women in uniform inspired him to dream of joining the armed forces and later becoming a police officer.
“As a young boy, the armed forces and police services had a tremendous impact on me because of the discipline, dedication, and aura that surrounded men and women in uniform,” he said. “There was always a sense of commitment, respect, and purpose that deeply inspired me.”
The Chief Minister said these values continue to remain relevant today and stressed that the NCC plays a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and future leaders.
“The NCC instils discipline, patriotism, hard work, and values that shape young people into responsible citizens,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of youth-focused governance, Sangma said development should not be measured merely through infrastructure or expenditure, but by the positive impact created in people’s lives.
“The success of a government should not be measured by how many crores are spent or how many buildings are constructed. It should be measured by how many lives are transformed because of those investments,” he stated.
He further added that Meghalaya’s demographic advantage makes youth development one of the government’s top priorities, noting that nearly 75 percent of the state’s population is below the age of 35.
Referring to the recently announced Youth and Sports Policy during the Cabinet on the Move programme in Tura, the Chief Minister described it as a roadmap integrating education, sports, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, skill development, and youth exchange programmes.
“The inauguration of the 41 Meghalaya Battalion NCC complex is part of that larger vision. It brings us one step closer to achieving the future we envision for our youth,” he said.
Sangma also stressed the importance of exposure and exchange programmes in helping young people realise their potential. Referring to the experience shared by an NCC cadet during the programme, he noted that many youths across Meghalaya are simply waiting for opportunities to prove themselves.
“There are countless young people across Meghalaya simply waiting for an opportunity to prove themselves,” he remarked.
Assuring continued support to the NCC, the Chief Minister said investments in youth infrastructure should be viewed as investments in the future of society. He also pledged support for the completion of remaining infrastructure, including the boundary wall and other facilities.
Speaking about Meghalaya’s growth trajectory, Sangma said the state is steadily emerging as one of the fastest-growing states in the country and is increasingly gaining recognition nationally and internationally.
Reflecting on lessons from his own political journey, the Chief Minister encouraged young people to embrace resilience and self-improvement instead of blaming circumstances during difficult times.
“At some point, you will have to choose between blaming the world or improving yourself. I hope you choose growth and self-improvement,” he told the cadets.
He concluded by congratulating the NCC authorities for developing the new facility and expressed hope that it would become one of the best NCC centres in the Northeast.
The 41 Meghalaya Battalion NCC traces its origins to the 15 Assam Artillery Battery NCC raised on June 3, 1961, and was upgraded to the 41 Meghalaya Battalion NCC in October 2020. The battalion currently oversees NCC training activities across five districts of Garo Hills.
Under the Border Area Expansion Plan, the battalion has expanded from 3 colleges and 6 schools to 7 colleges and 18 schools. It presently comprises 7 companies with 1,120 cadets and 24 troops, with approximately 2,400 cadets enrolled as of May 2026.
The battalion was officially relocated from Shillong to Tura on March 3, 2026, following the allotment of additional land and infrastructure support by the Meghalaya Government, a move expected to strengthen NCC outreach across the Garo Hills region.
