Shillong, October 14: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday praised the Meghalaya Hindu Mission for its century-long contribution to social welfare and philanthropy, while emphasising that love for one’s own community should never turn into hatred towards others.
Addressing the centenary celebration of the Meghalaya Hindu Mission at Mawprem, Shillong, in the presence of Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai and MLA Paul Lyngdoh, Sangma stressed the importance of unity, secularism and mutual respect among different communities. “We should love our community, but never hate others,” the Chief Minister said, adding that organisations dedicated to serving society reflected the true spirit of peace, harmony and secularism.
Sangma said the State Government had worked over the past eight years for the welfare of all citizens, irrespective of religion or community, recognising that every section of society played an important role in Meghalaya’s development. “Every religion shares a common message of service and brotherhood. It is heartening to see the participation and inclusion of diverse cultures, including our indigenous communities, in today’s programme,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of peaceful coexistence, the Chief Minister said different faiths might have distinct forms of worship, but they shared common values of compassion, honesty and helping those in need. He also urged young people to carry forward the message of unity and harmony beyond the centenary celebration and practise these values in their daily lives. “Let us make unity in diversity a way of life. When we serve one another without distinction and respect each other’s beliefs and heritage, we build a society that is peaceful, inclusive and proud of its roots,” Sangma said.
Established in 1926 as the Hindu Sammelan Anath Ashram, the Meghalaya Hindu Mission has been involved in various social welfare activities, including providing care for orphaned and destitute children, promoting education, combating untouchability and supporting vocational training, particularly for women. Over the years, the Mission has also contributed portions of its land for public and community purposes, including approximately 14,500 square feet for the Mawprem Presbyterian Church and 4,755 square feet for the widening of Mawprem Road. According to the Mission, around 27,425 square feet of land has been ceded for various purposes, while approximately 1,48,351 square feet remains under its ownership.
The Mission also operates the Meghalaya Hindu Mission Home for Boys and Home for Girls at Lower Mawprem, both registered Child Care Institutions under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act. The two institutions provide shelter, education, food, clothing, medical care and recreational facilities to children in need of care and protection, with support from government child-maintenance grants.
The centenary celebration marked 100 years of the Mission’s service to society and its continued commitment to child welfare, education and community development in Meghalaya.
