Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government’s initiatives over the past eight years have been guided by the welfare and wellbeing of the people. Addressing the Independence Day celebration at Polo Ground in Shillong, where he hoisted the national flag and took the Rashtriya Salute, Sangma highlighted what he described as key achievements of his government. He said every mission, infrastructure project and scheme has been built around three foundations—protecting and preserving the state’s land, empowering its people and upholding its cultural heritage. Among the initiatives highlighted were crop insurance, tourism guesthouse and taxi support, government employment opportunities for successful athletes, incentives for maintaining tree cover, and projects related to water supply and roads. During the celebration, District Awards of Excellence were presented to officials and workers for their contributions, while Sohiong C&RD Block was recognised for constructing a footpath-cum-viewpoint at Domkopher Mawdngung. Appreciation awards were also given to Army officials and two 93-year-old veterans for their service. Police Medal for Meritorious Service was announced for three personnel, while another official received the Medal for Meritorious Service. The programme also featured cultural performances by students from three schools, adding to the Independence Day celebrations.