Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has announced a financial grant of Rs 25 lakh for a newly inaugurated shelter home for destitute and abandoned women, while also recognising the achievements of students from child care institutions in the state.The Chief Minister inaugurated the facility at Mawïong Rim, stating that the fund would be provided from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSDF) to support the functioning of the shelter. The home, named Nabon Memorial Home, has been set up to provide safe accommodation and care for vulnerable women.The shelter has been established by Jingiaseng Kynthei Shillong Ri-Lum Presbytery and is aimed at offering protection, dignity and support to women who are in distress or without family support. Speaking at the event, Sangma said the initiative would serve as a place of safety and compassion for those in need.
“This home will serve as a sanctuary of hope and compassion, where destitute and abandoned women can live with dignity, security and proper care,” he said.The facility has been named after Ka Nabon, who is remembered as the first Christian woman in the Khasi Hills. The Chief Minister described the naming as a tribute to courage, faith and service. Earlier in the day, Sangma also interacted with 41 students from various Child Care Institutions under the Social Welfare Department. These students were recognised for their academic performance and were given cash awards as a mark of appreciation.
Highlighting the importance of education, the Chief Minister said that the achievements of these students were inspiring. He also announced that he would personally support their secondary education through the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, noting that many of the children come from difficult backgrounds. “These children are an inspiration. Their circumstances do not define their future. They should continue to dream and work towards their goals,” he said.