Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has congratulated Hally War, a revered environmentalist and farmer from Siej village in Sohra (Cherrapunji) on being conferred the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his lifelong dedication to conserving and bio-weaving the Khasi people’s iconic living root bridges. War, along with 65 other Padma Awardees were honored by President Droupadi Murmu during the first Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday evening. Notably, three other personalities from the Northeast, were conferred the Award during the ceremony at the national capital. “Honored to witness Shri Hally War being conferred the Padma Shri by the Hon’ble President of India, Smti Droupadi Murmu ji, today,” Chief Minister Sangma stated on social media.
“Bah Hally has devoted decades of his life to weaving and nurturing our iconic living root bridges. During my trek to Siej village, I had the privilege of witnessing these remarkable living structures and was deeply inspired by Bah Hally’s immense knowledge, quiet dedication, and profound respect for the environment,” he stated. “His journey reminds us that true nation-building also lies in preserving our heritage, protecting nature, and passing on traditions that define who we are,” Sangma said. “This honor is richly deserved. Congratulations, Bah Hally War. May your work continue to inspire generations,” he stated.