Bengaluru/Shillong, February 9, 2026:
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma was on Sunday conferred the prestigious CBCI National Award 2026, becoming one of the first recipients of the newly instituted honour. He was among 19 distinguished personalities awarded during the 37th CBCI General Body Meeting held at St. John’s Medical College, Bengaluru.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) National Awards recognise individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the Church, society and the nation, upholding Gospel values and contributing to human dignity, justice, education, leadership and innovation. The awards seek to celebrate lives that reflect faith in action, nation-building and selfless service across clerical, religious and lay spheres.
Expressing gratitude on receiving the honour, Chief Minister Sangma said, “This award instituted by the CBCI reinforces in us the belief that the work we are doing holds value and makes a difference. It motivates us to live out the values that the Church teaches.”
He acknowledged the historic role of the Catholic Church in shaping the youth of the North East and assured continued partnership. “These are challenging times for churches in different parts of the country, but we will work together,” he stated, urging Christian youth to take leadership roles not only in politics but also in diverse fields of public life.
The ceremony was attended by Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George, bishops from across India, church leaders, civil society representatives and invited dignitaries.
Through the awards, the CBCI aims to inspire future generations to embrace lives of commitment, integrity and compassionate service rooted in constitutional ideals of justice, fraternity and human dignity.
