Meghalaya Guv unveils monoliths outside Raj Bhavan

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 21: On the occasion of the 52nd anniversary of statehood day of Meghalaya, the Governor, Phagu Chauhan today unveiled ‘Ki Mawbynna” or monoliths erected outside the main gates of Raj Bhavan, Shillong in commemoration of 150 glorious years of Raj Bhavan.

On the occasion the Governor also inaugurated a beautiful tree house constructed in the sprawling lawn of Raj Bhavan, adding to its majestic beauty.

The unveiling was witnessed by the officers and staff of Raj Bhavan led by the Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor, Dr. B D R Tiwari

Formerly known as Government House, the Raj Bhavan was the one of the first houses to be built in Shillong. Designated as the official residence of the then Deputy Commissioner, Colonel Henry Stuart Bivar, it was designed, built and modelled to showcase the grandeur of the British Colonial Rule. In 1874, when Shillong became the Headquarters of the newly created province of Assam, Bivar house was transformed into the Chief Commissioner’s Residency.

The Residency, however, was damaged beyond repair in the Shillong earthquake of 1897. The present building was constructed over the remains of the Residency and was occupied in 1903-04.

The Government House was renamed as “Raj Bhavan” on December 6, 1951.

After the independence of India, this symbol of the British Raj, in gradual transformation, became the symbol of a vibrant democracy, and ever since it has been the residence of the Governors of the State.

3rd Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament to be held on December

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Dec 2: The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament is set to convene its third session on December 4th and 5^th, 2023, coinciding with the celebration of Meghalaya Farmers’ Day at the prestigious State Convention Centre in Shillong.

Organized by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare in collaboration with Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBDA) and Hills Farmers’ Union (HFU), this annual event has evolved into a pivotal celebration, acknowledging the relentless efforts and invaluable contributions of local farmers to the agricultural landscape.

Distinguished guests at the upcoming 3rd Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament include Chief

Minister Conrad K Sangma, who will grace the event as Chief Guest, alongside A. L. Hek, Minister of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, and Dr Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Meghalaya.

“As we gather for the Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament and Farmers’ Day, it’s a tribute to the unyielding spirit of our farmers. Their dedication transforms fields into stories of resilience and innovation. In this symposium, we envision a future where sustainable practices and eco-friendly approaches pave the way for agricultural excellence. Let us cultivate not just crops but a legacy of ingenuity and prosperity. Together, we celebrate the farmers who embody the essence of Meghalaya’s agricultural landscape with unwavering commitment and a vision for a bountiful tomorrow,” said Dr Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya.

The inaugural Farmers’ Parliament was held on December 4, 2018, in Shillong, marking a collaboration between the Agriculture Department, Government of Meghalaya, Meghalaya Basin Development Agency (MBDA), Meghalaya Institute of Entrepreneurship (MIE), and the Hills Farmers’ Union (HFU).

Following the success of its maiden edition, the second Farmers’ Parliament took place on December 10, 2019, in Tura, designating the year 2020 as the “Year of the Farmers”, with December 4th earmarked for the annual celebration of Meghalaya Farmers’ Day.

The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament and Farmers’ Day event serves as a critical platform for unity, appreciating those who tirelessly toil to ensure food security and prosperity for the region. The program underscores the significance of community-driven initiatives and grassroots engagement. Renowned agricultural experts and policymakers will participate in the dialogue, offering valuable insights to address the evolving needs of the farming community.

The event will feature presentations, demonstrations, and networking sessions, equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to enhance their agricultural endeavours.

The Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture while preserving traditional farming methods and embracing innovative approaches to address the ever-changing landscape of the agricultural sector.