Shillong, July 23 : In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, in collaboration with the Forest Department, today hosted a comprehensive Tree Plantation Programme at the New Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Campus in Mawdiangdiang. The initiative underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and combating climate change.
The event saw the distinguished presence of Meghalaya Governor Chandrashekhar H. Vijaya Sankar, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Deputy Speaker Timothy D. Shira, and several Cabinet Ministers, including Rakkam A Sangma, Marcuise N Marak, Dr. M Ampareen Lyngdoh, and AT Mondal. Opposition Chief Whip Ronnie V Lyngdoh and MLAs from across the political spectrum also actively participated, showcasing a unified dedication to a greener Meghalaya.
Governor Chandrashekhar H. Vijaya Sankar, while commending the architectural marvel of the new Assembly complex, hailed the plantation drive as a “visionary step.” He passionately advocated for the planting of native, medicinal, and endangered plant species, cautioning against the perils of monoculture due to its detrimental ecological impact.
Referring to Meghalaya as the “heaven of India,” the Governor highlighted the state’s unparalleled biodiversity and the collective responsibility to safeguard it. “What is our responsibility to bring back the ecological balance?” he questioned, emphasizing the urgent need for concerted action.
Speaker Thomas A. Sangma underscored that the plantation drive signifies a shared commitment to environmental protection. In a symbolic gesture, he announced that each tree planted by the dignitaries would be tagged with their names, serving as a lasting pledge towards a greener Meghalaya.
“The new Assembly complex is envisioned not just as a symbol of legislative progress, but as a green, sustainable space that echoes our ecological values,” Speaker Sangma stated, reinforcing the vision of an eco-conscious legislative body.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the plantation initiative as a historic and symbolic act, aligning it with global efforts to combat climate change. He drew an analogy from the film Gladiator, stating, “What we do today echoes in eternity,” emphasizing that the newly planted trees will stand as a enduring legacy for future generations.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the remarkable success of the state’s “One Citizen One Tree” initiative, which has already resulted in the planting of nearly two crore trees across Meghalaya. He urged all MLAs to regularly visit and nurture their planted trees, fostering a deeper sense of environmental ownership and personal commitment.
Regarding the New Assembly Complex, the Chief Minister informed that while certain technical aspects of the main hall, related to sound and security, are still pending, the project is nearing completion and is expected to be fully operational soon.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic involvement from numerous MLAs, including Rupert Momin, Santa Mary Shylla, Gavin M Mylliem, Kartush R Marak, Renikton L Tongkhar, RG Momin, Arbinstone B Marak, Pongseng R Marak, Dr. Mizanur Rahman Kazi, Sengchim N Sangma, Jim M Sangma, Brening A Sangma, Mayralborn Syiem, Wailadmiki Shylla, Pius Marwein, Mathew Beyondstar Kurbah, Nujorki Sungoh, Charles Marngar, Ian Botham K Sangma, Methodius Dkhar, Gabriel Wahlang, Subir Marak, Lahkmen Rymbui, Miani D Shira, Adelbert Nongrum, Rupa M Marak and Heaving Stone Kharpran, underscoring the collective resolve for environmental betterment.
