Shillong, October 8 : In a solemn and dignified ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Shillong, the Governor of Meghalaya, C.H. Vijayashankar, was conferred with the prestigious Kaveri Prashasti Award by Dr. Sri Sri Trinetra Mahanta Shivayogi Swamiji, the revered pontiff of Sri Durdandeshwara Mahanta Shivayogi Math, Mandya District, and Sri DMS Chandravana Ashrama, located on the western banks of the sacred River Kaveri in Srirangapatna, Karnataka.
The event was graced by the presence of several high-ranking dignitaries including Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak, and Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, along with senior government officials and invited guests.
The Kaveri Prashasti Award was presented in recognition of Governor Vijayashankar’s exceptional contributions to public service and leadership over the decades.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Vijayashankar expressed profound gratitude to Swamiji for the honour. He praised the spiritual leader’s impactful service to the nation in areas of education, healthcare, peacebuilding, and spiritual guidance.
“The Kaveri Prashasti Award holds deep significance,” said the Governor. “Just as the River Kaveri nourishes life and symbolizes purity, this award serves as a reminder for us to strive for goodness and service wherever possible.”
In a heartfelt moment, the Governor revealed that this is the first award he has accepted in his 69 years, highlighting the deep personal respect and connection he shares with Swamiji. “This award is not mined alone, it belongs to the entire state of Meghalaya,” he added.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, in his address, congratulated the Governor on the rare honour, calling it a reflection of his decades of dedicated public service, humility, and commitment to the people’s welfare. He also paid tribute to Swamiji for his relentless work in the fields of education, health, environment, and spiritual upliftment.
“This recognition will inspire many, especially those in public life, to serve with sincerity and compassion,” said the Chief Minister. “It encourages youth to follow the path of service with integrity and dedication.”
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from the organisers, who expressed their appreciation to all attendees for their support in making the event a resounding success.
