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Tura, Jan 26, 2026: The 77th Republic Day of India was celebrated with great patriotic fervour and solemn dignity across West Garo Hills district today. In observance of the occasion, the National Flag was unfurled at 6:00 AM on all private buildings, including residences and shops, followed by the unfurling of the Tricolour at 7 am on all Government offices and educational institutions.

The main district-level ceremonial function was held at Matchakolgre LP. School Field, in New Tura. The program commenced at 8 am with the formation of the parade, followed by the arrival of the general public at the venue. The Speaker of Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Shri Thomas A. Sangma, arrived at the saluting base at 9 am and unfurled the National Flag.

The unfurling ceremony was followed by the Rashtriya Salute and the singing of the National Anthem. The Parade Commander then presented the report to the Speaker, who subsequently inspected the parade and took the salute.

Addressing the gathering, the Speaker extended his warm greetings to the people of the State on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day, which also coincided with the 150 anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram. He paid homage to the founding fathers of the nation and freedom fighters including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. BR. Ambedkar, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and remembered with reverence the contributions of Meghalaya’s own patriots such as U Tirot Sing, U Kiang Nangbah and Pa Togan N. Sangma. He also acknowledged and saluted the unwavering dedication and sacrifices of the Armed Forces, Paramilitary Forces and the Meghalaya Police for ensuring peace and security in the State.

The Speaker highlighted that the overall law and order situation in Meghalaya has remained peaceful, with festivals and national events being conducted smoothly across the State. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining peace along the Assam–Meghalaya border and strengthening security measures through coordinated efforts of the civil administration and security forces.

Speaking on development, the Speaker stated that Meghalaya has emerged as one of the fastest-growing States in the country, recording sustained economic growth in recent years. He highlighted the Government’s vision to build a resilient and inclusive economy through Mission 10, improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and public-private partnerships, aimed at generating employment opportunities and improving the quality of life of citizens.

He further emphasized the Government’s focus on responsive and citizen-centric governance through the expansion of services under the Meghalaya Right to Public Services Act and the use of digital platforms to ensure transparency, efficiency and timely service delivery. He noted that initiatives aimed at empowering youth, women, farmers and entrepreneurs, strengthening education and healthcare, promoting tourism, and conserving the environment are key pillars of the State’s development strategy.

The programme also featured an impressive march past by various contingents, a tableaux presentation highlighting developmental themes, and cultural performances reflecting the rich cultural heritage and unity in diversity of the region. Awards and appreciation certificates were presented to individuals and teams for their outstanding contributions. First prize for the march past was awarded to Don Bosco College, Tura, NCC Boys, second prize was won by Don Bosco College, Tura, NCC Girls and the third prize was won by Tura, Government, NCC Girls. While in the bleau competition, Tura Municipal Board (TMB) was awarded Winner, Meghalaya Tourism Department was awarded as the Runners Up.

As part of the celebrations, Appreciation & Recognition Awards were also presented to individuals and communities from West Garo Hills in recognition of their outstanding service, dedication and contributions in their respective fields. Among the awardees were Shri Tredian Mansram D. Sangma LDA Supply Branch, Office of the Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills; Shri Kharsin M. Sangma UDA office of College of Teacher Education, Rongkhon, Shri Sharminath Kushwaha, Head Plumber, PHE Tura Division, for ensuring uninterrupted water supply to Tura town; and Shri Stern Herdton B. Marak Supervisor, Office of District Social Welfare Officer Tura, for his tireless efforts in uplifting underprivileged communities.

Smt. Miami A. Sangma, Centre Administrator Cum-Protection Officer One Stop Centre Tura, and Smt. Rikmatchi Ch. Sangma, Project Coordinator, Halfway Home (Male) Tura, were recognised for their exemplary commitment to social welfare, mental health care and support services. In the field of education, Shri Jackarias N. Sangma and Shri Sunilson Ch. Marak, Assistant Teachers of Govt. Upper Primary School Selsella, were honoured for their unwavering dedication towards shaping young minds. Shri Livingstone A. Sangma Office Chowkidar under the Office of the Joint Director of School Education & Literacy West Garo Hills, was recognised for his sincerity, commitment and devoted service to the office. Smt. Kenny S. Sangma Anganwadi Worker of Kantagre Anganwadi Centre under Rongram ICDS Project and Smt. Danme K. Marak Anganwadi Worker of Normal Compound AWC under Tura Urban ICDS Project, were honoured for their dedication and valuable contribution towards child health, nutrition, growth and early education. Smt. Sharmilla B. Marak, UDA (Establishment Branch) and Shri Pillarson Ch. Marak, Driver (Nazareth Branch), both from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, were recognised for their outstanding efficiency, integrity and exemplary service. Shri Greatfield Ch. Momin Assistant Horticulture Inspector, and Smt. Dilche K. Marak LDA, Office of the District Horticulture Officer, Tura, were felicitated for their unwavering commitment, proactive work and contributions towards improving horticultural productivity and office efficiency. Shri Rajesh K. Sangma, Grade-IV staff under the District Medical and Health Officer, West Garo Hills, was recognised for his dedication and sincere service. Appreciation was also accorded to Smt. Biana W. Momin for her exemplary contribution to education, public service and her active engagement in the film industry, Shri Tyrone D’Brass Educator, for his outstanding service delivery in the education sector and Dr. Angelice A. Sangma, Medical Professional and Master Weaver, for her exceptional dedication, professional excellence in public health and welfare, and selfless service towards the most vulnerable sections of society.

Recognition was also accorded to individuals and communities for their contribution to art, culture, heritage and community development. Shri Arak Mangsang Sangma was felicitated for his invaluable contribution to traditional art, culture, creativity and research, while Shri Diwal M. Sangma, Community Member from Rombagre village, Rongram Block, was honoured for promoting traditional culture and tourism through folklore and music. Sadolpara Village, Dadenggre Block, was recognised for preservation and promotion of Garo culture, environmental conservation and sustainable rural practices. The Urenggre Village Water and Sanitation Committee was also honoured for its pivotal role in implementing Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission through community-driven initiatives.

After the departure of the Speaker, games and sports events for children were organised, followed by an Inter Mahari Tug of War, adding enthusiasm and festive spirit to the celebrations.

The district-level Republic Day celebrations concluded peacefully with active participation from officials, students and members of the general public.

In Dalu Civil Sub-Division, Ian Botham K. Sangma, MLA, unfurled the national Tricolour and took the Rashtriya salute amidst the impressive marching of parade contingents comprising of MLP, BSF & scouts & guides of local schools.