Tura, Oct 14, 2026: Montfort Secondary School, Dilni Bolchugre, emerged as the winner of an inter-school dance competition organised to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child at Bolchugre Multi-Facility Centre (MFC) under Gambegre C&RD Block on Tuesday.

The event was organised by the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Department of Social Welfare, West Garo Hills, Tura, with the aim of promoting girl child empowerment, encouraging young talent and raising awareness about girls’ rights, education and health.

Eight schools from Gambegre Block participated in the competition, presenting traditional Garo folk dances alongside contemporary performances centred on women’s empowerment.

Dr. S. R. Marak, Medical and Health Officer of Darengre Primary Health Centre, attended the programme as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, she underscored the importance of adolescent health, maternal care, proper nutrition and hygiene in supporting girls’ overall development.

She also stressed the need to break societal barriers through education and creative expression, encouraging greater awareness of health and hygiene practices essential for adolescent girls.

The programme began at 11 am with an opening prayer by Tengsrang D. Sangma, District Facilitator, DSWO, Tura, followed by a welcome address from Stern Herdton B. Marak, Supervisor, DSWO, Tura. He highlighted the community’s collective responsibility to safeguard child rights and ensure equal opportunities for girls. A pledge-reading session under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was also conducted during the programme.

The dance performances were evaluated on choreography, rhythm, costume authenticity, stage presence and relevance to the theme of the International Day of the Girl Child. The judging panel comprised Dodim Ch. Marak and Isha A. Sangma of Tura Dance Academy.

Mother Camino Secondary School, Balamagre, secured second place, while Bolchugre Secondary School, Bolchugre, finished third.

Dr. Marak presented cash prizes and certificates to the winning teams, while all participating schools received certificates of participation in recognition of their involvement.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Cherandha A. Sangma, Gender Specialist, DHEW, Tura, who expressed gratitude to village elders, teachers and students for their support in making the event a success. Light refreshments were served to the attendees.