Shillong, November 2: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday announced that the Meghalaya government would support two gospel concerts in collaboration with the Presbyterian Church in the Khasi-Jaintia Hills region and the Baptist Church in Garo Hills as part of the upcoming festive season.

Speaking to reporters, Sangma said the initiative reflected the importance of faith and music in the lives of the people of Meghalaya. He described faith as an integral part of the state’s identity and said people should have opportunities to celebrate and express it.

The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of music in Meghalaya’s cultural landscape, adding that the government’s support for gospel music was part of its efforts to promote different forms of musical expression.

“Music is an important part of our culture and our lives,” he said, explaining that the government wanted to encourage gospel music alongside other musical genres.

Sangma also revealed that he had suggested organising performances under the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project every day, including Sundays, with Sunday performances dedicated to gospel songs.

He said artists could continue performing on Sundays while ensuring that the music presented on those days reflected the gospel tradition.

The Chief Minister expressed happiness over the initiative, highlighting the role of faith, culture and music in bringing communities together and strengthening Meghalaya’s cultural identity.