Tura, May 19: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday inaugurated the new office complex of the 41 NCC Battalion at Cherangre in Tura, calling the National Cadet Corps (NCC) a vital platform for shaping disciplined, responsible and patriotic youth in the state.
The newly inaugurated complex will house key administrative and operational offices of the battalion and is expected to strengthen NCC activities across the region. The Chief Minister also unveiled a commemorative plaque and took part in a sapling plantation drive at the campus.
More than 500 NCC cadets, Associate NCC Officers (ANOs), officials and guests attended the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma described the inauguration as a “momentous occasion” and said the establishment of the battalion office aligns with the government’s broader vision of empowering Meghalaya’s youth through discipline, leadership and exposure.
Highlighting the demographic profile of the state, the Chief Minister said nearly 75 per cent of Meghalaya’s population is below the age of 35, while around 50 per cent is below 20 years. He termed the youth the “greatest strength” of the state and reiterated the government’s commitment to youth-centric programmes and policies.
Sangma said institutions like the NCC help instil values of patriotism, hard work, respect and discipline among young people, while also creating opportunities for leadership and personal growth.
Referring to the state’s Youth and Sports Policy, he said the government is working towards integrating education, sports, entrepreneurship, culture and youth exchange programmes to provide greater opportunities and exposure to young people, especially from remote areas.
The Chief Minister also noted that many youths from the interior parts of Meghalaya had never travelled outside their districts before participating in state-level sporting and youth events, adding that exposure helps them realise their potential and aspire for bigger opportunities.
Sharing his own experience of losing his first election in 2004, Sangma urged the cadets to remain resilient in the face of setbacks and view failures as opportunities for self-improvement.
He further stated that Meghalaya is among the fastest-growing states in the country and said the government remains focused on development, youth empowerment and economic growth.
Among those present during the programme were Brig KJ Singh, DDG NCC Directorate North Eastern Region; Col Amil Aul, SM, DGC NCC Group Headquarters Shillong; Col DT Antony, Commanding Officer of 41 NCC Battalion; Lt Col Abhishek Chakraborty, Administrative Officer of 41 NCC Battalion; Subedar Major Ismail; and West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Agarwal.
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