Meghalaya CM inaugurates renovated State Central Library and heritage festival
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma opened the House of Ryndia and a living heritage festival in Shillong to promote local culture.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma inaugurated the renovated State Central Library, the House of Ryndia at the state museum, and a living heritage festival on the library grounds in Shillong, according to the Meghalaya Monitor.
The Chief Minister stated that the event connects the preservation of living heritage, public access to knowledge, and increased market opportunities for traditional textile producers.
The renovated library features updated reading spaces, archive sections, a dedicated area for children, and a Knowledge Corner for students preparing for national competitive exams. The facility has also adopted E-Granthalaya software and Web OPAC services to help readers find information more efficiently.
Established on January 19, 1974, the State Central Library holds over 2 lakh book volumes, magazines, and newspapers dating back to the 1970s. It has approximately 31,000 registered members and receives Rs 2.23 crore in assistance under the National Mission on Libraries.
The House of Ryndia was opened to provide a platform for indigenous textiles to improve visibility and market linkages. Meanwhile, the State-Level Living Heritage Arts & Craft Village Festival recognises traditional music, food, and community knowledge practiced across the state.
Sangma also discussed tourism strategies, aiming to create new brands around 11 specific locations to diversify the economy. He noted that the state's development model focuses on infrastructure, personal development, and the emphasis of tradition and identity.