Shillong, September 26, 2026: HSPDP legislator from Mawshynrut and Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Methodius Dkhar has urged young people to draw inspiration from the life and principles of veteran statesman and Hill State Movement leader Hopingstone Lyngdoh Nonglait.
Dkhar was speaking at a commemorative programme held at Shillong Club on Saturday to mark Hopingstone Lyngdoh’s 11th death anniversary. The programme also featured a symposium attended by students from various colleges.
Describing Hopingstone as a visionary and principled political leader, Dkhar said he dedicated his life to the struggle for Meghalaya’s statehood and the protection of the rights of its indigenous people.
Dkhar said the purpose of the programme was not only to remember Hopingstone but also to understand his life, struggles, political philosophy and vision for Meghalaya.
“The history of the HSPDP under the leadership of Hopingstone Lyngdoh cannot be separated from the history of Meghalaya. People may agree or disagree with his political principles, but his contributions and the truth behind his struggle cannot be erased,” Dkhar said.
He said Hopingstone’s vision went beyond the attainment of statehood. The veteran leader, he added, had wanted Meghalaya to become economically self-reliant and less dependent on others.
According to Dkhar, Hopingstone had also anticipated challenges that Meghalaya’s youth are facing today, particularly unemployment and the lack of employable skills. He said these concerns had been reflected in the HSPDP’s manifesto.
Drawing from Hopingstone’s vision, Dkhar urged young people to consider vocational and technical education alongside conventional academic studies.
“Although we are educated, many of us still lack the skills required in the workplace. Students and parents should, therefore, also consider vocational and technical education,” he said.
Dkhar, who also holds the Skill Development portfolio, said opportunities were available across various sectors for young people equipped with the right skills. He pointed out that several skill-development programmes do not require a university degree and are open to those who have completed Classes X or XII.
The minister also stressed the importance of connecting trained youth with prospective employers. He said the government was preparing initiatives, including an online platform to provide information on training programmes and employment opportunities while helping employers identify candidates with relevant skills.
Dkhar urged students to study Hopingstone Lyngdoh’s life and political journey and draw lessons from his commitment to truth, courage, public service and self-reliance.
