Peace and prosperity can be ensured only when law and order is maintained: Meghalaya CM

Shillong, Aug 15: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday said that the path of peace and reconciliation can be difficult, but “we must persist, as this alone will enable our State and our Nation to develop and progress.”

He also said that peace and prosperity can be ensured only when law and order is maintained.

Delivering his maiden Independence Day speech as Chief Minister at Polo Ground here, Conrad appealed to all citizens of the State to hold on steadfastly to the democratic values, to progress through discussions and negotiations as “we proceed on our journey towards development and progress.”

“Great nations can be built only with the contribution and hard work of one and all. However, violence in any form undermines its progress. The Government is fully aware of its responsibility and will deal with these challenges,” he assured.

The chief Minister also conveyed his greetings to the people of Meghalaya as they join in the celebrations in the state capital as well as in other parts of the State.

He also paid his tribute to great sons and daughters of India like Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhai Patel and many others who provided the leadership to liberate the country from foreign rule.

Conrad also recollected the personal contributions by patriots from the State – U Tirot Sing, U Kiang Nangbah and Pa Togan Sangma, and other patriots of the tribes for their selflessness and dedication in their struggle against colonial rule.

“Today the country is free, because of their sacrifice. Today as we commemorate our freedom fighters, let us imbibe their spirit, by re-dedicating ourselves to the service of our State and our Nation. The government is committed to the ideals of peace and prosperity and all round development of the State,” he said.

Stating that one of the focus areas of Governance is to maximize agriculture and horticulture potential of the State and bring all round benefit for all stake holders, the Chief Minister said, “It will generate employment and boost income of the people. Meghalaya is an agrarian state. Agriculture is the key to rural prosperity and food security for a majority of our citizens.”

On tourism, he said that this is another priority area of the Government. There is a huge potential for promoting eco-friendly tourism in Meghalaya. Tourism industry has huge potential to create employment for the youth of our State.

Stating that Meghalaya has always been known for its quality education, Conrad said, “Our endeavour will be to take it to a higher level especially in our rural areas.”

Reiterating that peace and prosperity can be ensured only when law and order is maintained, the Chief Minister said that this fundamental aspect of administration has been given utmost priority by Government. “We have to protect our fragile eco-system. The philosophy of sustainable development has to be ingrained in letter and spirit in governance. Building a society, which is inclusive and progressive, is a concern of one and all. I urge non-governmental organization, people of Meghalaya to do all they can to build a society which is inclusive, progressive and do all round effort to defeat the forces which want to spoil harmony, good will and brotherhood among the communities, groups, regions.”