Shillong, October 13 : The Department of Social Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child 2025 at the Lariti Auditorium, Mawkasiang, under the global theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.” The event spotlighted the achievements, resilience, and leadership potential of girls across the state and underscored the government’s commitment to gender equality and holistic development.
The programme was graced by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma as the Chief Guest, and Paul Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, as the Guest of Honour. The gathering included Dr. (Mrs.) M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLA, senior officials, representatives of partner organizations, educational leaders, and over hundreds of students from 50 schools.
In his keynote address, the Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Social Welfare Department for championing the rights and well-being of the girl child. Leading the gathering in a two-minute silence to honour the lives of children lost in recent tragedies, he reflected on the need for vigilance, compassion, and collective responsibility. “This celebration must mark not just a day of recognition, but the beginning of a sustained movement for societal change — one that empowers, protects, and uplifts every girl,” he said.
He outlined several initiatives aimed at promoting women’s health, safety, and economic independence, including: The establishment of reusable sanitary pad units supported by the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund, managed by self-help groups (SHGs) to promote sustainability and livelihood generation. New measures under the Safe Motherhood Programme, including care packets for rural mothers with newborn essentials produced by local SHGs. Enhanced partnerships with NGOs and faith-based organizations to strengthen child protection and community-based safety networks.
Addressing the growing issue of substance abuse, the Chief Minister spoke of the state’s efforts to expand detox and de-addiction facilities, strengthen enforcement, and promote awareness and prevention programs. “Our young girls must be confident, independent thinkers who make informed choices. Every decision — big or small — has the power to shape your future,” he urged, while commending the courage and creativity of Meghalaya’s youth.
During an engaging interactive session, students raised a range of thoughtful suggestions and concerns. Topics included school meal quality, safety measures for girls, self-defense training, sports promotion, career guidance, and stress management in academics.
The Chief Minister attentively addressed each query, assuring that the government is committed to ensuring well-rounded development opportunities for young people and will continue to invest in education, safety, and skill development.
Earlier in the programme, Pravin Bakshi, Commissioner and Secretary, Social Welfare Department, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of enabling girls to define their own paths. Quoting Coco Chanel, he said, “A girl should be two things — who and what she wants.”
He highlighted initiatives under Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, which have improved school enrolment and reduced dropout rates, and lauded the Shubham Charitable Foundation’s Zero Waste Mission video, promoting eco-friendly menstrual hygiene practices and digital safety awareness.
A major highlight of the celebration was the felicitation of young achievers who excelled in academics, sports, social service, entrepreneurship, bravery, and community leadership. These outstanding girls, many of whom have overcome personal hardships, were honoured by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries as role models for their peers.
The programme also featured motivational talks by Daphisha Kharbani, Founder of Majestic Dance Academy, and Anjelina Tynhlaiang, a Paralympic athlete, whose inspiring journeys encouraged students to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
A short film on menstrual hygiene and a presentation on the health and well-being of girls by Dr. N.E. Kharsahnoh, Director of Health and Family Welfare, further enriched the event with practical insights into health and self-care.
The International Day of the Girl Child 2025 celebration in Meghalaya reaffirmed the government’s dedication to gender equity, child protection, and empowerment. “Our collective mission,” the Chief Minister concluded, “is to ensure that every girl in Meghalaya is empowered to dream, to lead, and to change the world.”
