Meghalaya celebrates International Day of Girl Child, emphasises safety

Shillong: The state govt’s social welfare department celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child 2025 at Lariti auditorium, Mawkasiang, New Shillong, under the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.

”The event highlighted the achievements, resilience, and potential of girls from the matrilineal state.CM Conrad K Sangma led a two-minute silence to honour children, including girls, who have lost their lives in recent incidents, emphasising the “fragility of life” and the importance of vigilance and protection. He called for sustained societal change in supporting the girl child and stressed the importance of child safety through technology, community programmes, and collaboration with NGOs and faith-based organisations.Sangma announced initiatives such as the establishment of reusable sanitary pad units funded by the CM’s Special Development Fund, produced by self-help groups to promote sustainability and local economic empowerment. He also outlined new initiatives under the Safe Motherhood Programme, including care packets for rural mothers with essential items for newborns.Addressing the issue of rising drug abuse, the CM spoke of strengthening detoxification & de-addiction facilities, community vigilance and enforcement efforts against illegal networks.

He encouraged girls to “think independently, make confident decisions,” and uphold their values.During an interactive session, students engaged with the CM, raising concerns and suggestions on issues such as school lunch quality, enhanced safety measures for girls, self-defence classes, and support for athletes and aspiring models.Pravin Bakshi, commissioner and secretary of the social welfare department, emphasised the importance of empowering girls to lead change and highlighted the govt's commitment to promoting education, health, and rights of girls through initiatives like ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao,’ which have improved school enrolment and reduced dropout rates.