Shillong/Tura, Sept 3: A message on “positivity” from chief minister Conrad Sangma on Monday marked the 77th birth anniversary of former Lok Sabha Speaker Purno Sangma’s observed in the state.
“We can never build our society based on negativity… National People’s Party (NPP) believes in positivity and positive politics,” stated Conrad, also the NPP national president, while paying tributes to his father and founder of the party.
Asserting that he “cannot stand” divisive politics, Conrad called out the “individuals, people, group and parties” involved in dividing the society.
He reiterated the core values and principles that guide the NPP, which was founded by Purno Sangma in 2013.
NPP national vice-president and deputy chief minister Prestone Tynsong, deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar and other party leaders were present at the function held at the U Soso Tham Auditorium.
Reflecting on the teachings of his father, Conrad recalled that his father had always told him to be driven by a desire to help and serve the people, and not to think about benefits or any position.
“Friends, let this be one of the biggest points or takeaways, I should say, from this foundation day, that let our politics be driven by the need to serve the people of our state. Let our conscience be clear,” he said.
He also urged his colleagues and party members to remain grounded and always remember the importance of humility in leadership.
He acknowledged the challenges of leading a small state like Meghalaya where the proximity of the government to the people requires constant engagement and consultation. However, he also recognised this as a strength, enabling the government to be more attuned to the needs and concerns of its citizens.
Meanwhile, the NPP also celebrated its 12th foundation day in the programme. The NPP chief acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead but reaffirmed the party’s dedication to serving the people of Meghalaya with integrity and commitment.
“We will do our best to ensure that in our minds, hearts, and conscience, nothing else except the good of our people should drive what we do in the future,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the 77th birth anniversary of Purno A Sangma was also commemorated at a solemn ceremony organised by National People’s Youth Front (NPYF) in collaboration with PA Sangma Foundation (PASF) at District Auditorium, Tura.
PA Sangma’s wife and PASF chairperson Soradini K Sangma, assembly speaker Thomas A Sangma, deputy speaker Timothy D Shira, cabinet ministers Rakkam A Sangma and Marcuise N Marak; and Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation chairperson James PK Sangma besides several MLAs attended the function.
Jonathan Sinkam M Sangma, who secured all India 1st rank for B-Planning and all India 6th Rank in B. Architecture in JEE Mains 2024, was felicitated on the occasion.
Jonathan, a resident of Forest Tilla locality of Tura, was awarded Rs 1 lakh by NPYF to support his future endeavors. The award was received on his behalf by his parents Dr Riksilchi M Sangma and Dr Aelifter R Marak.
During the ceremony, the dignitaries fondly remembered the life and contributions of the PA Sangma, reflecting on his relentless efforts toward the development and uplift of Garo Hills and Meghalaya as a whole.
The event also featured a musical performance by students of PASF Abong Noga College.
