Shillong: Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar highlighted the significance of the state’s matrilineal tradition, which stands as a cornerstone for the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities.
Speaking at the Public Empowerment Assembly, Ka Dorbar Iktiar Paidbah, hosted by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), the Governor called for the protection of Meghalaya’s cultural legacy, advocating for a balance between tradition and modern growth.
“The strength of Meghalaya’s identity lies in its matrilineal system, a defining feature of our Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo cultures. This system ensures that our values and practices endure. I urge every citizen to preserve and celebrate our heritage,” stated Vijayashankar.
The gathering, which saw the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, KHADC Chairman P.N. Syiem, Chief Executive Member Pyniaid S. Syiem, and other prominent figures, served as a reminder of the state’s deep-rooted traditions and local governance systems.
The Governor expressed his gratitude for being part of the assembly, which he described as a testament to the collective dedication to the growth and welfare of the people of Meghalaya.
He reiterated the importance of the matrilineal system, acknowledging women as the guardians of culture and traditions, and appealed to all to safeguard these vital customs.
He lauded the recent legislative amendments to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Administration of Elaka) Act, 2023, and the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Khasi Social Custom of Lineage) Amendment Act, 2023.
These changes, he noted, empower local institutions such as Rangbah Shnong, Seng Kynthei, Seng Samla, and Rangbah Kurs, further reinforcing the state’s traditional governance framework.
The Governor also underlined the special role that Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) play under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, urging cooperative efforts between ADC leaders and the State Government to foster balanced and sustainable development.
During the event, the Governor led a pledge, with all dignitaries and participants vowing to uphold the values of Meghalaya and work together to tackle social issues, including the growing problem of drug abuse.
Vijayashankar placed a strong emphasis on the importance of education and youth empowerment.
He called for concerted efforts to reduce dropout rates, especially among young girls, and stressed the critical need for skill development and higher education.
By working together, he concluded, Meghalaya can continue to flourish as a model of inclusive growth while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
