What Did CM Sangma Discover in the Two-Century-Old Village of Meghalaya?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In an unprecedented move, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma visited Tangmang village in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills. This visit not only marked a historic first for the village but also highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing rural economies through artisan support and community empowerment.
Key Takeaways
- Historic visit by CM Sangma to Tangmang village.
- Support for artisans and local craftsmanship emphasized.
- Establishment of a Handicraft Training Centre announced.
- Commitment to holistic rural economic development.
- Engagement with locals through CM-Connect session.
Shillong, May 18 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, made a historic visit to Tangmang village located in the Pynursla sub-division of the East Khasi Hills. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first occasion a sitting chief minister has visited this village, as confirmed by official sources on Sunday.
Tangmang boasts a rich heritage spanning over two centuries, established by settlers who sought refuge after a catastrophic earthquake. The village's name, ‘Tangmang’, translates to 'precisely right' or 'adequately sufficient', highlighting its profound cultural importance.
Impressed by the villagers' remarkable artistry, the Chief Minister instructed his officials to procure local products in bulk for presentation to visiting dignitaries and high-ranking officials, branding them as exceptional representations of Meghalaya’s artisanal excellence. “This visit is truly unforgettable,” Sangma remarked.
“Our government believes in holistic development—while investing in substantial infrastructure, we also need to implement initiatives that directly enhance the lives of our people,” he emphasized.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government's commitment to boosting the rural economy through various initiatives, stating, “Empowering our artisans and weavers is a fundamental vision of the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government. Through diverse welfare programs, including support for Self Help Groups (SHGs) and village organizations, we aim to uplift local communities and enhance livelihoods.”
Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring cascading waterfalls and rivers that flow into the Bangladeshi plains, Tangmang is also celebrated for its traditional bamboo craftsmanship and weaving.
During his visit, the Chief Minister received a warm welcome from the villagers, who displayed their intricate bamboo and handicraft creations, particularly handwoven mats. He also announced plans for establishing a Handicraft Training Centre in Tangmang village, which will be equipped with modern infrastructure, machinery, and residential facilities for trainees to learn from master craftsmen in the area.
Additionally, he urged the community to enhance their production capabilities, improve product development, and seek markets beyond the state to maximize their potential. During his visit, the Chief Minister also engaged in a CM-Connect session, directly interacting with villagers and addressing their concerns. Responding to a local student’s request, he assured that funding for a new building for the Tangmang Secondary School will be allocated from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund.
Point of View
I observe that CM Sangma's visit to Tangmang village is a commendable step towards recognizing the importance of rural economies. The government's initiatives to support artisans and enhance local livelihoods reflect a necessary shift towards holistic development, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach every corner of Meghalaya.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CM Sangma's visit to Tangmang significant?
CM Sangma's visit is significant as it marks the first time a sitting chief minister has visited Tangmang, highlighting the government's focus on rural development and support for local artisans.
What initiatives were announced during the visit?
During the visit, CM Sangma announced the establishment of a Handicraft Training Centre and assured funding for a new building for Tangmang Secondary School, along with support for local artisans.
