Shillong, March 28: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma opened the sesquicentennial celebrations of Lawjynriew Dorbar Shnong, on Saturday.
The event was held at Lawjynriew Football Ground, Nongthymmai. Also present were Minister, Education, Information & Public Relations etc Lakhmen Rymbui, MLA, Nongthymmai, Charles Pyngrope and Chief Executive Member, KHADC, Winston Tony Lyngdoh.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister, Conrad Sangma, expressing happiness to be participating in the historic and momentous occasion of the celebration of 150 years of Shnong Lawjynriew extended his congratulations to the community of Lajynriew and added, “The warmth of the traditional Khasi welcome, the beautiful cultural performances, and the insightful presentations we have witnessed today reflect the rich heritage and unity of this shnong. It is a proud reminder of who we are as a people.”
He further said that the story of Lawjynriew is not just the story of a locality but a story deeply connected with the growth of Shillong and the history of the state. “From its early days under the traditional governance of Hima Mylliem to its formal land registration in 1876, this shnong has stood the test of time,” he said and lauded the people of Lawjynriew who have preserved their identity while embracing change.”From a settlement rooted in tradition, it has grown into a vibrant and cosmopolitan community, welcoming people from different parts of the country, especially students from across the North East,” he added.
The chief minister said that the legacy of this place is further enriched by its association with important institutions and its contribution to education and social development standing as a symbol of harmony, coexistence, and progress.On the role of traditional bodies and institutions in society the chief minister said that the Dorbar Shnong system continues to play a vital role. “These traditional bodies are strong pillars of grassroots governance, ensuring community participation, preserving traditions, and maintaining harmony,” he said and commended the Rangbah Shnong and all members of the Dorbar for their dedication and leadership.
Further, the chief minister solicited the cooperation and partnership of the locality in its different development projects and community driven programs. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting communities in their journey of development he announced an amount of Rs 30 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund towards the needs of the locality.
The chief minister also unveiled several Dorbar Shnong Lawjynriew projects during the occasion that included CCTVs, 8 location signages across the locality, launched the website and the dashboard of the locality. Prominent and distinguished leaders and elders were also felicitated by the chief minister during the occasion.
