Shillong, Dec 10: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday inaugurated newly developed cultural and tourism amenities at Lum Pomblang and Madan Syiem in Smit, aimed at enhancing the annual Nongkrem Dance festival and strengthening the preservation of Meghalaya’s tribal cultural heritage.
Recalling his first visit to the site more than three years ago, Sangma said witnessing the sacred rituals of the Nongkrem Dance had made him realise that despite more than 50 years of statehood, the cultural identity of the tribal community had not been preserved to its full potential.
“This is not a criticism but a reflection,” the Chief Minister said. “I felt strongly that this needed to change. We were determined to do whatever it takes to give due respect to our traditions and culture—to protect, preserve, and promote them.”
He expressed satisfaction over the timely completion of the project and noted that the development extended beyond the traditional dance grounds, with improvements also being carried out in the surrounding areas, including Madan Syiem and other local grounds.
Reiterating that the government’s development agenda is rooted in equity and fairness, Sangma highlighted the administration’s consistent outreach to communities across regions and faiths over the past seven and a half years. He urged citizens to rise above social and regional divides, emphasising that inclusiveness and unity are essential for the state’s progress.
“For Meghalaya to develop, we must move forward together, ensuring development benefits everyone,” he said, adding that true progress must always be assessed by its direct impact on people’s lives.
The Chief Minister said the newly developed facilities would promote cultural events, boost tourism, strengthen the local economy, and preserve traditional practices. He reaffirmed the government’s continued support for healthcare, sports, and extracurricular activities.
Acknowledging long delays in several infrastructure projects, he said the state government remains committed to completing major sports facilities in collaboration with traditional authorities. He also assured residents that connectivity projects—such as bridges, retaining walls, and other essential infrastructure—would receive priority attention.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to inclusivity and progress. He also announced that plans are underway to beautify Iewduh Market to improve safety, convenience, and the overall experience for both locals and tourists.
Former KHADC CEM Pyniaid Sing Syiem described the occasion as momentous, saying the development would meaningfully benefit the people.
The Syiem of Hima Khyrim, Dr. B. S. Syiem, credited years of effort and partnership for the successful completion of the project and thanked the government for its commitment to carrying out the work in the right manner. He emphasised that the new facilities would serve as an important milestone in preserving land, culture, and identity while providing safer, more organised spaces for cultural events.
He expressed hope that the foundation laid today would strengthen cultural preservation for generations to come.
Smit Sordar P. Nongbri also addressed the gathering, outlining the community’s aspirations, including the need for a football stadium, the upgradation of Smit PHC, and improvements to Smit College to ensure better access to higher education for rural students.
The programme concluded with cultural presentations, including musical performances by students of Smit Higher Secondary School and Smit College.
