Shillong, June 25: In a significant boost to cultural preservation and the creative economy in Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today inaugurated the fully revamped Williamson Sangma Meghalaya State Museum, located at the premises of the U Soso Tham Auditorium in Shillong.

Minister for Arts and Culture Paul Lyngdoh and Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal attended the inauguration ceremony.

The state museum, now reimagined with cutting-edge technology, offers an immersive experience through QR-based exhibits and interactive digital displays, symbolizing a shift toward modern methods of cultural storytelling. Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister said the initiative is part of a broader vision to celebrate, preserve, and creatively mobilize Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage.

“It’s not just about maintaining our identity and preserving it. The bigger question is how we make it more creative — how we incorporate our cultural heritage and convert it into an economy in itself,” Sangma stated.

Cultural Literacy for Students, Expansion Plans Announced
To ensure greater cultural awareness among youth, the Chief Minister announced that the Education Department will issue directives making it mandatory for all students to visit the museum.

Expanding on plans, Sangma revealed that similar museums are being planned across the state, starting with Tura. Designs for new cultural centers in other district headquarters are also underway.

Research and Innovation Underway
Under the Chief Minister’s Research Grant (CMRG), the state has initiated several studies focusing on the intersection of culture and development. These include:

Development of AI-based translation and phonetic tools for local languages

Rediscovery and documentation of 71 traditional Garo games

Exploration of archaeological tourism in the Garo Hills, where ancient stone monoliths possibly dating back to 1200 BC have been identified

These findings, Sangma noted, will be compiled into public booklets and academic resources, further boosting cultural education and engagement.

Promoting Cultural Entrepreneurship
The Chief Minister emphasized the state’s commitment to promoting a creative economy through the PRIME Program, which supports local entrepreneurs in producing high-quality souvenirs and handicrafts, particularly utilizing indigenous resources such as bamboo.

“Other countries like Vietnam are exporting bamboo-based products. We too have immense potential to develop similar industries rooted in local resources,” he said.

Digital Culture Through ‘Hello Meghalaya’
Sangma highlighted the success of the state-run OTT platform, “Hello Meghalaya”, which has grown into a national model for showcasing local culture, music, and history through films and documentaries.

“What we started with Hello Meghalaya has now become a reference point across the country. This platform is giving voice to our culture in a very engaging and creative way,” he remarked.

Promoting Religious Heritage in Sohra
The Chief Minister also announced plans to promote a heritage site in Sohra, home to a relic of St. Don Bosco, one of the few such relics in the world. The site will be developed and promoted by the Tourism Department.

Reflecting on the transformation, Sangma shared his connection:

“When I first visited the museum in 2018, I was disappointed. Today, I am proud to see how far we have come. This museum is not just a building — it is a living testament to our identity, our creativity, and our future.”

Observing Samvidhan Hatya Diwas
The day’s events also included the observance of Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, marking the 50th anniversary of the imposition of the Emergency in India. The Chief Minister called for vigilance in safeguarding constitutional values, emphasizing the importance of justice, liberty, equality, and democracy.

“It is a solemn reminder of a time when constitutional freedoms were suspended and democratic institutions strained,” he said.

Commemorative Stamp Released
To honour the legacy of Meghalaya’s founding Chief Minister, a commemorative postal stamp on Captain Williamson Sangma was released during the programme. The stamp was handed over to his youngest daughter, Rebecca Momin, in a touching tribute to the state’s foundational leadership.