Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma attended the closing ceremony of the 56th Annual Koch Conference as the chief guest at Belbari in South West Garo Hills district on Saturday, where the Koch community placed key demands before the Government, including the inclusion of the Koch language in primary education.

 

The three-day conference, which began on February 12, concluded with the participation of community leaders, delegates and members of the Koch community from across the region. During the programme, the Meghalaya Koch Association submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister highlighting issues related to language, education, employment and infrastructure.

 

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised that Garo Hills is home to diverse communities with distinct cultures, traditions and religions, all of which have contributed to the region’s growth while prioritising the larger interests of the state. He reiterated that unity in diversity remained Meghalaya’s greatest strength and said the Government continued to follow an inclusive approach in supporting all communities.

 

He stated that assistance had been extended to various communities for infrastructure development, cultural promotion, preservation and exchange programmes. Acknowledging the concerns of minority communities, he said that while Garos, Khasis and Jaintias form the majority within the state, they are minorities at the national level, making it essential to safeguard the interests of every group.

 

Referring to the memorandum, the Chief Minister said the proposal on the inclusion of the Koch language would be examined carefully. He noted that Meghalaya is home to several communities, including Hajongs, Rabhas, Koch and Maans, and stressed the need for dialogue and consensus while addressing the aspirations of all groups.