December 9, 2003

SHILLONG, DECEMBER 9, 2003: In a bid to foster unity and integrity among fellow citizens, in the wake of the recent communal unrest in the State of Meghalaya and Assam, the Officers Club, Resubelpara in association with the Sub-Divisional Administration organised a Peace Marathon at Resubelpara, East Garo Hills, on December 6 last. Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Mr. Billykid A Sangma flagged off the race from Damash.

Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony, Mr. Sangma stressed on the need to be at peace with oneself before spreading the message of peace in society. He also added that youth can play a leadership role in transforming the society and paving the way for all round development in the District and the State as a whole. Terming insurgency as a political problem, Sangma said that the insurgent outfits should come forward for negotiations and seek an amicable solution to their problems.

Others present on the occasion include Mr. T D Shira, MLA, Resubelpara, A Ch Marak, ADC, Williamnagar, S R Marak, SDO (C ) Resubelpara and Officers of the Sub-Division.

SHILLONG, DECEMBER 9, 2003: In view of the 12 hours bandh commencing from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM on December 10, 2003, Section 144 Cr PC has been clamped in the entire East Khasi Hills District and Ri Bhoi District, prohibiting any person or group of persons from causing obstruction to free movement of vehicles, public, office goers and any other action that would tantamount to causing annoyance, injury, damage to life and property.

This order will come into immediate effect until further notice.

SHILLONG, DECEMBER 9, 2003: Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs, Mr. Billykid A Sangma inaugurated the special Table Tennis Coaching Camp at U Tirot Singh Indoor Stadium, Shillong, on December 8, 2003. The Camp was organised by the Meghalaya Table Tennis Association, Shillong.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Mr. Sangma lauded the effort of the Association in holding such a camp for the benefit of the young and budding Table Tennis players. He lamented that this sport has lost its importance due to lack of facilities and proper coaching. However, he expressed hope that this camp will help rejuvenate this once very popular sport.

While expressing his appreciation to the parents who has shown interest in moulding their children, not only in academic activities but in co-curricular activities, he urged upon them to continue their support to the Association. Further, he also assured the Association that the Government and the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs will extent all possible help in promoting sports in the State.

It may be mentioned that about 50 young boys and girls are taking part in the two-week long training camp, which will end on December 22, 2003. The main coach in the camp is Mr. R K Singh from the Sports Authority of India, Manipur.

Others who spoke on the occasion was Fr. Johny, Principal St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School, Shillong, C Choudhuri, Secretary, MTTA and Mr. Joydeep Das.