Shillong, Feb 9: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma was among 19 distinguished individuals conferred with the prestigious CBCI National Awards 2026 at the 37th General Body Meeting of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) held at St John’s Medical College, Bengaluru, on Monday.
The awards, instituted this year and presented for the first time, recognise individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the Church, society and the nation.
The CBCI said the honour celebrates those who embody Gospel values and have made significant contributions to human dignity, justice, education, leadership, innovation and nation-building.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, established in 1944, is the apex body of the Catholic Church in the country and brings together bishops of the Latin, Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches. It serves as a national platform to coordinate pastoral initiatives and engage with public issues, including education, healthcare, social justice and minority rights.
In a statement, the CBCI noted that the awards aim to acknowledge lives marked by faith in action, intellectual contribution, pastoral leadership and selfless service across clerical, religious and lay vocations. The initiative also seeks to inspire future generations to uphold constitutional ideals such as justice, fraternity and human dignity.
Expressing gratitude after receiving the award, Sangma said the recognition reinforces the value of public service. “This award instituted by the CBCI strengthens our belief that the work we are doing makes a difference. It motivates us to uphold the values that the Church teaches us,” he said.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the Catholic Church’s role in shaping youth, particularly in the Northeast. Noting that churches face challenges in different parts of the country, he assured continued cooperation and urged Christian youth to emerge as leaders not only in politics but across diverse fields.
 held at St John’s Medical College, Bengaluru, on Monday.){kind=link}