Shillong: The Government of Meghalaya marked the International Day of the Girl Child 2025 on Monday at Lariti Auditorium, Mawkasiang, celebrating the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.” The event highlighted the achievements, resilience, and potential of girls across the state.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, the chief guest, along with Paul Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, and Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh, MLA, attended the programme, which was also joined by officials, partner organizations, school heads, and students from 50 schools.
In his keynote address, the chief minister emphasised the importance of teamwork and societal vigilance, leading the audience in a two-minute silence to honour children lost in recent incidents.
He highlighted initiatives such as reusable sanitary pad units under the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund, and care packets for rural mothers under the Safe Motherhood Program, aimed at promoting sustainability, local empowerment, and child well-being.
He also stressed technology, community programs, and NGO collaboration as key to ensuring child safety, and spoke on combating drug abuse through detox facilities, enforcement, and community vigilance.
During an interactive session, students actively voiced their concerns, focusing on areas such as school lunch quality, enhanced safety measures for girls, introduction of self-defense classes, and greater support for young athletes and aspiring models.
They also requested a more balanced academic approach to reduce stress, along with expanded access to extracurricular activities, improved sports infrastructure, and career guidance.
Sangma addressed each concern, assuring students of the government’s commitment to their holistic development and encouraging them to play an active role in shaping Meghalaya’s future.
Pravin Bakshi, Commissioner and Secretary of the Social Welfare Department, opened the programme by stressing the importance of empowering girls through education, health, and rights-focused initiatives such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, which has improved school enrollment and reduced dropout rates.
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He also commended the Shubham Charitable Foundation’s Zero Waste Mission video, which highlighted eco-friendly menstrual hygiene practices, and emphasised digital safety awareness.
The event also honoured young achievers excelling in academics, sports, social service, entrepreneurship, bravery, and community leadership, many of whom overcame personal and societal challenges.
Motivational talks by Daphisha Kharbani, Founder of Majestic Dance Academy, and Paralympian Anjelina Tynhlaiang inspired students to pursue their dreams with confidence.
A short film on menstrual hygiene and a presentation on girls’ health and well-being by Dr. N.E. Kharsahnoh, Director of Health and Family Welfare, provided additional insights on wellness and safety.
