Shillong celebrates 45th anniversary of the Khasi Authors’ Society
Shillong celebrated the 45th anniversary of the Khasi Authors’ Society with literary publications, a seminar on the city’s evolution, and the launch of key initiatives such as Golden Mahseer conservation and a capacity-building course in programming technologies.
Shillong, Sep 11: In a momentous celebration of Khasi literature and language, Shillong’s MP Ricky J Syngkon marked the 45th anniversary of the Khasi Authors’ Society with the release of three pivotal publications. These works – Ka Antigone by Hamles Mylliem Umlong, Ka Kheiñkur Kheiñkha Khasi by Raphael Warjri, and The Megalithic Culture of Khasi Jaintia Hills by Dr Marco Babit Mitri – serve as vital contributions to the cultural and literary landscape of the Khasi community. The event not only showcased the works of distinguished authors but also reflected on the larger discourse surrounding the preservation of the Khasi language.
Delivering a passionate keynote address, Syngkon underscored the critical importance of maintaining the linguistic purity of Khasi in both spoken and written forms. He emphasised the need to discourage the increasing use of foreign words and phrases, urging local authors to protect the richness of the language and its cultural roots. Drawing attention to his earlier advocacy in Parliament, Syngkon reiterated his call for the inclusion of Khasi in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, a move that would formally recognise the language and promote its broader usage.
In addition to celebrating literary achievements, the event honoured 11 students for their outstanding performances in Khasi language studies, awarding top achievers from various academic levels. The recognition of these students serves as a testament to the continuing vibrancy of Khasi as both an academic and cultural subject.
The afternoon session saw a highly engaging seminar titled Shillong – Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, which commemorated the 150th anniversary of Shillong. Esteemed scholars such as Dr Desmond L Kharmawphlang, Dr Soloni Bareh, Kitbor Nongrum, and others presented papers reflecting on the city’s evolution from its colonial beginnings under British rule to its present-day status as a cultural and educational hub. The discussions delved into the challenges Shillong has faced over the decades, including infrastructure development and environmental sustainability, while offering thoughtful insights into its future potential. The seminar was a fitting tribute to the city’s rich history and its ongoing journey toward progress.
Conservation Efforts for the Golden Mahseer Launched
In an equally significant event, the ICAR-Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (ICAR-DCFR), in collaboration with the Department of Zoology at NEHU, Shillong, launched a conservation initiative for the endangered Golden Mahseer. The seed-ranching programme, which took place at NEHU lake, aims to rejuvenate the dwindling population of this prized fish species in Meghalaya’s natural water bodies.
NEHU Vice Chancellor Prof. PS Shukla, who attended the event along with various scientists and faculty members, highlighted the importance of community involvement in protecting the breeding grounds of the Golden Mahseer. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the species’ survival, stating that the initiative would help maintain genetic diversity and boost population numbers. Hatchery-reared fingerlings were released into NEHU lake as part of the programme, symbolising the project’s first tangible step towards a brighter future for the Golden Mahseer.
NEHU Partners to Launch Capacity-Building Course in Programming Technologies
Meanwhile, the Department of Biomedical Engineering at NEHU has partnered with the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Shillong, to launch a capacity-building course aimed at equipping pre-final and final-year BTech students with cutting-edge skills in programming technologies. The initiative, which will run until September 23, has drawn more than 40 participants and forms part of a larger project designed to uplift the socio-economic status of citizens across the Northeast.
The course falls under Category-3 of the project ‘Capacity Building in IECT’, focusing on training students in industry-demanding digital skills. By preparing students to meet evolving technological standards, the programme seeks to enhance their employability in the rapidly advancing IT sector.
Inter-School Science Seminar Tackles Mindful Eating
On the educational front, Laban Bengalee Boys’ Higher Secondary School held its 23rd Inter-School Science Seminar, exploring the timely topic of Mindful Eating: Fuelling the Inner World with Food. The seminar saw the participation of 12 schools, with students discussing the importance of mindfulness in eating habits. Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, who served as chief guest, commended the students for their thoughtful contributions.
Gaurav Das of Laban Bengalee Boys’ Higher Secondary School clinched first place, with Ethaniel Hansel Pathaw of St. Edmund’s Higher Secondary School and Cleric J Wanniang of BK Bajoria School securing second and third positions respectively.
As Shillong moves forward, these events demonstrate the city’s unwavering commitment to both cultural preservation and educational advancement, serving as a model for future growth and development.
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