PRESIDENT OF INDIA ADDRESSES A PUBLIC MEETING AT MAWPHLANG; INAUGURATES/LAYS FOUNDATION STONES FOR ROAD AND TOURISM PROJECTS

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu addressed a public meeting at Mawphlang, Meghalaya today (January 16, 2024). She also virtually inaugurated the upgraded Rongjeng Mangsang Adokgre Road and Mairang Ranigodown Azra Road as well as laid the foundation stones for Shillong Peak Ropeway and tourist accommodations in the villages of Kongthong, Mawlyngot and Kudengrim.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that since time immemorial, tribal people have been the vanguard of environmental conservation based on indigenous knowledge, culture, and religious beliefs. She noted that Meghalayan people believe that ‘U Basa’ or goddess dwells among lush green forests. She emphasized that tribal practices can be good case studies of how there can be a symbiotic relationship between human beings and nature. She stated that tribal lifestyle contributes to the promotion of national goals of bio-diversity conservation and maintaining the ecological balance.

The President highlighted the role of women in conservation and climate action efforts. She said that it is well-documented that women are at the heart of the conservation efforts. Women in tribal societies have been showing the way in protecting the environment and sharing their wisdom and skills to enhance adaptation and mitigation. By increasing the participation of women in climate initiatives and decision-making processes, more can be done for effective climate action and bio-diversity conservation.

The President was happy to note that Meghalaya has been making a determined effort to emerge as a model state and offering a balanced approach to modernity and tradition. She said that with good FDI inflows, high exports and a dynamic demography, Meghalaya is emerging as a growth leader and offers an inspiring story.