Makhel Heritage Conclave reminds common origin of all
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, December 28 2021: Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma inaugurated the Mao Students' Union (MSU) Makhel Heritage Conclave, commemorating its 88th anniversary and conference under the theme, "Rekindling our Heritage".

Loli Sheshuna, convenor COC, in his welcome, stated that Makhel village in Senapati district is considered the original place from where the Assamese, the Meitei and the Naga tribe dispersed and almost all the tribes in the state have their origin in Makhel village.

Historically and culturally speaking, Makhel occupies a pivotal place in the hearts and minds of all these communities, he added.

In his presidential address, Marikho O'Leriina, president MSU, said that the event is a home coming while noting that MSU was founded in 1933 and during its 88 years of existence it has rendered remarkable services to the people and played an important role in refining and shaping the future of the young generation.

"The torch of wisdom led by the pioneers has withstood the test of time, standing tall and stronger," he said, adding, "Several Naga tribes and other communities traced their origin to the village.

It is an inclusive heritage to welcome all those who have traced their origins to Makhel".

Kegwayhun Tep, president of Naga Students' Federation, stated that the Nagas have come a long way as food gatherers and head hunters, conquering great distances over hills and plains.

Out of the whims and mercies of nature, it is significant to note how the people who were considered assavages by the outside world a few decades ago have transcended into a new era of social changes and modernity within a brief period of time.

Culture is the way of life where it binds the people together through a common identity as distinct people as Nagas.

The student leader urged the gathering to adapt, evolve and push ourselves beyond one's limitation if one wishes to progress in tune with the rest of the world, adding that the future belongs to the youth.

PHE minister L Dikho called the day a historic one with the presence of Meghalaya chief minister.

The minister stressed the importance of culture and tradition to bring the people together through such an event.

He also hoped that the conference held at the heritage village bring blessing to all.

N Kayisii, MLA 49-Tadubi, who is also the state president of NPP, lauded the Meghalaya Chief minister for his keenness to bring development in the north east states.

The former minister also exhorted the gathering to learn and get inspiration from such leaders.

Y Joykumar Singh, deputy chief minister, who was present as special guest, stressed the importance of one's culture and heritage.

While lauding the Mao tribe for being successful in many fields, he said that until and unless human resource is developed and extend a helping hand to each other, society cannot develop.

According to folklore, Meiteis also originated from Makhel, the deputy CM said while urging all to help each other in order to become a developed society.

He also urged the youth not to indulge in drugs or any intoxicant for a healthy mind and body.

Speaking as the chief guest, Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma, praised the student body for holding such a grand event with a large gathering.

Conrad stressed on the importance of political and cultural identity in the context of economic growth.

India's biggest strength and challenge is the youth of the nation!ifthey coukfdivert their energy and channelize it in a constructive manner it could become India's greatest strength or it could turn to destructive force for the nation, he said.

"Policy making to ensure channelizing of the youth to mould them, cultivate them and direct them and channelize their energy into constructive work will be only way to take the nation forward," the Meghalaya CM said, adding, "This conference could be another example of proper channelization of the youth to make them productive".

The youth of the north east, especially the tribals should come out beyond reservation mind to compete with the rest of the world in order to have a competitive mindset, Conrad Sangma added.

The later part of the event saw academic session and debate session on the topic, "Modernity is a threat to our culture and identity" .

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