Shillong, March 5: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday attended the programme for the conferment of appointment letters to the newly recruited personnel of the Meghalaya Police at the 2nd MLP Battalion.
During the programme, appointment letters were distributed to 2,968 recruits, marking one of the largest inductions into the state’s police force.
The recruitment drive covers 2,968 vacancies across various technical and service-oriented posts within the police department. The largest share of recruitment is dedicated to Armed Branch Constables and associated roles, accounting for 1,494 positions, followed by Unarmed Branch Constables with 720 posts. Other key positions include MPRO Operators (205) and Firemen (195), while specialised roles such as UBSI, Driver Fireman, Driver Constable, and various operator and mechanic posts make up the remaining positions.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister described the occasion as a historic and memorable moment for the State. “This must be the largest distribution of appointment letters that I have seen in the recent past—and perhaps even in the history of the State. Therefore, for us as a Government, this is a moment of great pride,” he said.
He noted that the recruitment exercise had been a major undertaking, with more than 1.7 lakh applications received, requiring extensive effort from the authorities involved. “Over 1,70,000 people had applied for these posts, and today close to 3,000 individuals will receive appointment letters and join the force. That in itself must bring a deep sense of satisfaction and happiness to the Police Department,” he added, congratulating the Central Recruitment Board and the Home (Police) Department for successfully completing the process.
Speaking about the significance of the day for the recruits and their families, the Chief Minister said the occasion marked the beginning of a lifelong responsibility. He emphasised that the role of the police is fundamental to governance and development. “For any society and for any government, development is extremely important. But without law and order, development cannot survive. Without law and order, nothing can move forward,” he said, adding that the recruits would now be part of the team responsible for ensuring stability and security in the State.
He also spoke about the importance of the uniform and the expectations it carries. “Very soon, you will wear the uniform. But remember—this uniform is not just clothing. When people see that uniform, they should feel respect, confidence, and trust. They should know that the person wearing it stands for discipline, fairness, and justice,” he said.
Highlighting the evolving nature of policing, the chief minister urged the recruits to remain adaptable and committed to learning. He also stressed the importance of balancing authority with humility. “While you must remain firm and determined to enforce the law, you must also maintain humility. The people you serve are your own brothers and sisters, and maintaining that balance between firmness and kindness will be one of your greatest responsibilities as police officers,” he said.
The chief minister also informed that the present government would complete eight years in office the following day. “Over the last eight years, close to 11,000 appointments and recruitments have been made under this government, and we remain committed to ensuring that other vacancies are also filled in the near future,” he said.
He also acknowledged the leadership of Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang and the Home (Police) Department for their efforts in strengthening policing across the state.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister encouraged the recruits to remain committed to the service they had chosen. “Recommit yourselves to that purpose, and no matter what challenges arise, never forget the responsibility that comes with the uniform,” he said, wishing the recruits success in their careers.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong also addressed the gathering and congratulated the recruits on their achievement. Emphasising the transparency of the recruitment process, he said the candidates present had earned their positions through merit and hard work.
“You have emerged as the best performers in this recruitment process. You represent the hopes and aspirations of the State of Meghalaya, and you are here today because you are the best,” he said.
Encouraging the recruits as they begin their service, he reminded them of the responsibility that lies ahead. “From today onwards, your responsibilities begin. Give your very best in training and in service, and always remember your duty to serve the people of Meghalaya with sincerity and humility,” he said.
Tynsong also assured aspiring candidates that recruitment processes would continue to remain fair and merit-based. “There will be no partiality; everything will be based strictly on merit,” he said, adding that further recruitment processes would soon be initiated to fill remaining vacancies.
Earlier, Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang delivered the welcome address, welcoming the chief minister, deputy chief minister, senior officials, and the newly recruited personnel along with their families.
The programme began with the arrival of the chief guest, followed by a ceremonial salami and felicitation of dignitaries. Appointment letters were then formally distributed to the recruit personnel in the presence of senior government and police officials. Members of the Central Recruitment Board were also felicitated during the programme.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Senior Superintendent of Police (TAP) Rituraj Ravi, followed by the playing of the State Anthem.
The programme was attended by senior officials of the State Government and the police department, as well as family members of the newly appointed personnel.
