Belbari (Meghalaya): Assurance was given that the proposal for the inclusion of the Koch language would be examined carefully, as Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma addressed the closing ceremony of the 56th Annual Koch Conference at Belbari in South West Garo Hills district on Saturday.
Speaking at the three-day conference, which began on February 12, the chief minister said the state government would consider the aspirations of all communities through dialogue and consensus-building.
He noted that Meghalaya is home to several ethnic groups, including Hajongs, Rabhas, Koch and Maans, and stressed the need for inclusive decision-making while framing policies that affect linguistic and cultural identity.
The chief minister highlighted the rich diversity of the Garo Hills region, describing it as a land of multiple communities with distinct cultures, traditions and religions.
He said every community had contributed to the region’s development while keeping the larger interests of the state and the country in focus.
Emphasising unity, he said that diversity remained Meghalaya’s greatest strength and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and equal respect for all communities.
Addressing concerns related to the use of Garo and Khasi languages in District Selection Committee (DSC) examinations, Sangma clarified that since both are Associate Official Languages, a basic proficiency requirement is necessary for effective public service delivery.
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However, he assured candidates that DSC examinations would not be conducted entirely in Garo or Khasi, adding that only one qualifying paper would be in the respective district language.
He also encouraged Koch youth to take advantage of initiatives such as the Chief Minister’s Research Grant to support their academic and professional growth, and assured that representations from Koch student and women’s organisations would be examined on a case-by-case basis.
Earlier in the programme, the Meghalaya Koch Association submitted a memorandum to the chief minister, seeking, among other demands, the introduction of Koch as a medium of instruction at the lower primary level under the National Education Policy 2020, temporary relaxation of language proficiency norms in employment and education, strengthening of grassroots institutions in plain areas, expansion and safety strengthening of the Koch Boys’ Hostel at New Tura, and the establishment of a meeting-cum-cultural hall at Belbari.
The event was attended by Betasing MDC Sanjay Koch as Guest of Honour, South West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Anendya Raajsshre, and other dignitaries.
The programme concluded with cultural and musical performances celebrating the heritage of the Koch community in Meghalaya.
