Shillong: Concerted efforts by both the people and the govt are needed to preserve indigenous knowledge and heritage, Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma said on Tuesday.“Preserving our cultural heritage requires conscious efforts and sustained govt intervention to ensure that our traditions, skills and indigenous knowledge are passed on to future generations,” Sangma said.“Through the identification of 11 Arts and Craft Villages, the govt is creating platforms to preserve traditional practices while supporting artisans and sustainable livelihoods,” he said after attending the state-level Living Heritage Arts and Craft Village Festival at the U Soso Tham Auditorium on the premises of the state central library in Shillong. The festival was organised as part of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas.“The festival is also an occasion to pay tribute to our freedom fighters and the many personalities who have contributed to preserving and enriching our arts, culture and traditions. It reminds us of the importance of honouring our roots and keeping our living heritage alive for generations to come,” Sangma said.The initiative seeks to strengthen the link between cultural preservation and livelihood opportunities while ensuring that traditional skills remain relevant in a changing society.Sangma also inaugurated the renovated state central library and the House of Ryndia at the U Soso Tham Auditorium premises in Shillong. The initiatives are intended to strengthen public learning and promote Meghalaya’s indigenous textiles.“A place of nostalgia and learning for generations, the state central library now offers modern reading spaces, a children’s section, archives and a dedicated Knowledge Corner for competitive examination aspirants,” Sangma said.The state central library has been modernised under the National Mission of Libraries, an initiative of the Union ministry of culture. The upgraded facility includes modern reading spaces, a dedicated children’s section, archives and a specialised Knowledge Corner for candidates preparing for competitive examinations.The Knowledge Corner is intended to provide resources and a dedicated space for students and others preparing for various competitive examinations.Sangma also inaugurated the House of Ryndia, a platform to promote Meghalaya’s indigenous textiles and showcase the craftsmanship of local weavers, self-help groups and entrepreneurs to wider markets.
