At Tura: Education Minister, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui hoisted the National Flag and took the salute of 24 contingents comprising of police personnel, students from various schools and members of the Bharat Scouts and Guides at Matchakolgre L.P. School Playground, New Tura.
In the NCC category, Pechon Memorial Secondary School Boys secured the first position, followed by Government College Tura Boys in second position and Don Bosco College Tura Girls in third position. In the Scouts and Guides category, St. Xavier’s Higher Secondary School, Tura secured the first position, Christian Girls Higher Secondary School stood second, while St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School secured the third position.
As part of the Independence Day programme, Appreciation Awards were also presented to nine toppers of the HSSLC and SSLC 2026 batches, recognising their academic achievements. Appreciation Awards were further presented to 21 employees from various departments and individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, recognising their dedication and service to society.
Highlights of the day’s celebration included inter-department tug-of-war, pineapple eating competition and children’s sports among others. A blood donation camp was also conducted at the venue.
At Williamnagar: Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar hoisted the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of 30 parade contingents comprising of East Garo Hills DEF, NCC, Bharat Scouts and Guide, Rongrenggre Govt. Higher Secondary School, Loyola College, Ferrando Memorial Band Party, Educere Secondary School, and Mount Penuel Secondary School at Rongrenggre Govt. Higher Secondary School Playground, Williamnagar.
The highlights of the celebrations include cultural programmes presented by the students of schools and colleges, presentation of awards to the government servants and sports personalities, children’s sports, inter-locality tug of war and a friendly foot-ball match between the teachers and DC’s XI.
At Ampati: MLA, Shri Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of 35 marching contingents.
The Chief Guest presented appreciation certificates to individuals and self-help groups in recognition of their contributions to society. Trophies were awarded to winners and runners-up in the March Past competition under the NCC Cadets and Bharat Scouts and Guides categories.
The celebration also witnessed the release of a booklet on tourist destinations in South West Garo Hills, published by the Tourism Department. Following the official programme, sports events for children were organised at the venue by the District Sports Office, South West Garo Hills.
At Resubelpara: Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Prestone Tynsong hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of 22 parade contingents at Resubelpara Mini Stadium Field. The celebration witnessed cultural programmes by the students of DIET, Resubelpara Higher Sec. School, and Mendipathar College, Aerobic dance by students of Vineyard School, Resubelpara, Skit (National Unity Integrity) by students of Paschal Hr. Secondary School, and Patriotic Dance by students of St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, Mendipathar.
At Jowai: Speaker, Shri Thomas A. Sangma hoisted the National and took the salute of the 35 contingents marching contingents at Jrisalein Playground.
Prizes were presented to the winning marching contingents wherein PM Shri School JNV Mukhla secured the first prize, followed by Jaintia Higher Secondary School, Jowai in the second place and Thadlaboh Presbyterian Higher Secondary School, Jowai in the third place.
At Khliehriat: Health & Family Welfare Minister, Shri Wailadmiki Shylla hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of 34 marching contingents at Holy Family Parish Playground.
The day’s celebration includes a cultural programme by artists showcasing the talent, unity and cultural diversity of the region.
At Nongstoin: Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister, Shri Timothy D. Shira hoisted the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of the 25 marching contingents at Madan New Nongstoin Playground.
The Chief Guest also distributed trophies and awards to various awardees and competition winners, including the Bravery Award to Shri Denial Born Nongsiej and Shri Robertjohn Nongsiej; the Best Teacher Awards to Shri Shemphanglin Khardewsaw and Shri Damian Jeffery Jyrwa; and awards for VDPs and the Best ASHA Facilitator, among others.
The celebration featured cultural performances by school students, including patriotic songs, traditional Khasi dances, and dances representing other Indian states. Prizes were awarded to the winners of various competitions.
Awards were also presented to the Best Primary Health Centres, with Nonglang PHC, Rambrai PHC, and Maweit PHC receiving recognition. Food packets were also distributed to orphanages and shelter homes across the district.
At Mawkyrwat: Border Areas Development Minister, Shri Brening A. Sangma hoisted the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of the marching contingents comprising of 8 schools, NCC, Scouts, Guides, Pipe Band and Police.
Cultural items were performed by Little Star Higher Secondary School, Nativity Higher Secondary School, Sngap Syiem College, and Nangtrei VO, Mawthawpdah.
Prizes and Awards were also handed to the winners in different categories. In the March Past the JNV South West Khasi Hills District bagged the 1st Prize followed by Maharam Government Higher Secondary School, Mawkyrwat in the 2nd Place and Balang Mawlangwir Higher Secondary School, Mawlangwir in the 3rd Place respectively. Certificates of appreciation were also distributed to all participants of the cultural programme for showcasing their skit, dance and songs.
Best-performing ASHA Facilitators and ASHA workers at the district level for the financial years 2024–25 and 2025–26, under the National Health Mission (NHM) were Smti Skialdaris Symbei of Mawhiangruda Village, attached to Wahkaji PHC, was recognised as the Best Performing ASHA Facilitator, Smti Babitha D. Shira of U Allekwareng Village, attached to Ranikor CHC, was recognised as the Best Performing ASHA, Smti Ribahun Turnia of Thangrai Village, attached to Ranikor CHC, was recognised as the Best Performing ASHA Facilitator under the AF, ASHA and JAS (PHC/SC) category, and Smti Kyrshantilang Mawlong of Shngimawlein Village, attached to Mawthawpdah PHC, was recognised as the Best Performing ASHA under the same category.
Rangthong PHC and Phlangdiloin SC were recognised for their best performance under the JAS (PHC/SC) category, and Smti Anita Lyngdoh of Nongbah Marshillong, attached to Mawkyrwat CHC, was recognised as the Best Performing ASHA for the financial year 2025–26 in Mawkyrwat Block.
As part of the celebration, the South West Khasi Hills District Swimming Association in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, South West Khasi Hills District also conducted the Tug of War and the 8th Annual Swimming Competition 2026 at Phot Umnew, Mawkyrwat.
At Nongpoh: PHE Minister, Shri Marcuise N. Marak, hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of the 25 contingents at NSCA Ground, Pahamsyiem.
The celebration includes patriotic songs, traditional dances and colourful cultural performances presented by students from different schools from the district.
At Mairang: Power Minister, Shri Metbah Lyngdoh hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of the 21 marching contingents comprising of Meghalaya Police, NCC Cadre, Scouts and Guides and school students at Dommawlum Playground,Pyndengumiong.
The celebration includes cultural shows, patriotic songs and dances performed by school children of different schools, presentation of District Awards to individuals for their exceptional performance and immense contribution in different fields, prizes distribution to the winners for the best march-past contingent, distribution of food packages to the patients in hospitals of the district and the 2nd EWKHD Inter-Office Futsal Tournament.
At Baghmara: MLA, Shri Damanbait Lamare hoisted the National Flag and took Rashtriya Salute of the 19 parade contingent at District Sports Office Playground. The celebration featured cultural performances by students from various schools
At Sohra Civil Sub-Division: Arts & Culture Minister, Shri Sanbor Shullai hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute 23 parade contingents comprising personnel from the Police Department, NCC units and students from various schools and educational institutions at St. John Bosco Boys’ Higher Secondary School, Sohra.
As part of the celebration, Shri Sanbor Shullai felicitated Shri Hally War, recipient of the Padma Shri, for his contribution towards the preservation and promotion of Meghalaya’s traditional living root bridges. He also felicitated Father Alphonsius, Principal of St. John Bosco Boys’ Higher Secondary School, Sohra, in recognition of his contribution to education and the community.
In the parade competition, St. John Bosco Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Sohra secured the first position, followed by District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Sohra in the second position and Cherra Presbyterian Higher Secondary School, Sohra in the third position. In the cultural programme competition, St. John Bosco Boys’ Higher Secondary School, Sohra secured the first position, District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Sohra secured the second position, while trainees of Skilled Meghalaya CIT, Sohra secured the third position.
At Dadenggre Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Jim M. Sangma hoisted the National Flag and took Rashtriya Salute of the 11 marching contingents comprising of 2nd MLP Battalion Goeragre, Scouts and Guides of Little Flower Secondary School, Puri Government Secondary school, Dilsigre RMSA Secondary School, and Bethel Secondary School.
The other highlight of the celebration include various cultural programs depicting the rich cultural heritage of India presented by different schools in the area including distribution of prizes to winners of Essay and Painting competitions held earlier. The Chief Guest distributed the Certificates of Appreciation to Employees for their dedicated and outstanding contribution in their line of duty. The names of the employees are Hanib B Sangma, Home Guard Volunteer for displaying exceptional bravery while performing law and order duty, Ronin D Marak for sincere and commitment towards his duty, Rakrak A Sangma for his dedicated service.
Meanwhile, UBC/399 Riksang M. Sangma from Rajabala Police Station was also awarded for his dedicated service, UBC/118 Jingjang B Marak for his commendable assistance in criminal cases, UBC/186 Jimsford K. Marak for his contribution to investigative teams, UBC/724 Shamlestone Marwein for exemplary discipline in performing CCTNS and sentry duties, UBC/436 Miman A. Sangma for his dedication in carrying out beat, PCR/CCTV and general station duties and Rimnang B Marak for outstanding performance in updating the e- KYC of NFSA beneficiaries achieving 100 percent success.
Bonkame Lansa B. Marak was also awarded for her outstanding achievement in football and for being selected for the goalkeeping trials as the only player from West Garo Hills.
Stalls, performances by MGMP, indigenous games such as Wa∙pong Sika, An∙ding Oka, Exhibition football match between Dadenggre Sub-Division and Block office, Food Stalls are added attractions to the celebration.
At Amlarem Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Nujorki Sungoh hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute at Amlarem Higher Secondary School Playground.
In the March Past Competition, Ka Syiem Jingsuk Higher Secondary School, Amlarem emerged as the Winner and secured the 1st prize. Nongtalang Government Higher Secondary School, Nongtalang secured the 2nd prize, while Amwi Jarain Secondary School, Jarain secured the 3rd prize. A Special Certificate of Appreciation was also presented to the participating band.
Under the Best Performing Anganwadi category, Smti Sacrify Gassah, Anganwadi Worker of Lamin South Anganwadi Centre, Smti Aidaroy Khyriem of Thangbuli Dongwah-I Anganwadi Centre and Smti Basi Lisa Khonglah were recognised for their dedicated service, particularly in child care, nutrition and maternal health.
In the field of academic excellence, Shri Leadingstar Maria Lmin of Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Secondary School, Lamin, was felicitated for securing the 19th position in the Top 20 list of the SSLC Examination.
Pdengshakap Primary Health Centre (PHC) was recognised for achieving National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS) certification in June 2026, securing a score of 91.5 per cent. The award was received by the Medical and Health Officer In-Charge and Supervisor on behalf of the entire PHC team.
Smti Banrilang Christine Kongwang, Community Health Gender Activist from Darrang village, was honoured for her contribution in mobilising children for health check-ups and corrective surgeries, particularly in cases involving congenital heart diseases and other congenital conditions. Her efforts helped children access free treatment under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) of the Health Department.
Dr. Arwin Khonglah, Sub-Divisional Medical & Health Officer, Amlarem Sub-Division and Block Programme Manager, National Health Mission, Amlarem Block received the award for Jarain Village Health Council (VHC) for recognition as the most active VHC under Amlarem Block for its sustained community-level health interventions in coordination with the Health Department through Jarain PHC. Its activities included addressing vaccine hesitancy, promoting antenatal check-ups and institutional deliveries, home visits for high-risk pregnant women and screening for Non-Communicable Diseases and other health concerns.
Recognition was further accorded to the Mir Jingmutlang Cluster Level Federation Women SHG Multipurpose Co-operative Society Ltd. for its contribution towards organising and empowering rural women. Established on 1st September 2023 with its headquarters at Amshipai village under Amlarem C&RD Block and organised under the guidance of the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRS-NRLM), the federation has grown into a strong community institution comprising 230 Self-Help Groups with 2,123 women members. It has been working towards capacity building, financial inclusion, sustainable livelihoods and community development.
In recognition of efficient public service delivery under the Public Distribution System, Shri Mechanki Syngkon, FPS Dealer of Lailyngdoh FPS Centre, was felicitated for achieving 100 per cent e-KYC approval under NFSA, making the centre the top-performing FPS in the Sub-Division in terms of Aadhaar seeding and e-KYC.
At Pynursla Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Charles Marngar hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of the 14 marching contingents comprising of Meghalaya Police and school students at Urksew Umkor Pynursla Sport Club Stadium.
At Mawshynrut Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Dr. C. Lyngdoh hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute at Mawthengkut Playground.
The celebration featured cultural performances by students from various schools in Riangdo and surrounding areas. Felicitation and awards were also presented to deserving recipients. As part of the celebration, food packages were distributed to patients at the CHC.
At Raksamgre Civil Sub-Division: Deputy Speaker, Shri Limison D. Sangma hoisted the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of 19 marching contingents at a programme held at Matchokgre Playground, Raksamgre.
At Ranikor Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Shakliar Warjri hoisted the National Flag and took the salute of the parade contingents comprising of 10 schools and Meghalaya Police at Nolikata Playground.
In the March Past, St. Thomas RCUP School emerged as the winner followed by Nibon Lower Primary School in the 2nd place and St. John RCUP School in the 3rd place respectively. Nolikata Upper Primary School was awarded as the Best Discipline School.
The other highlights of the celebration were the cultural programmes performed by the schools and Village Organizations (VOs) under Ranikor Civil Sub-Division.
At Patharkhmah Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Gavin Miguel Mylliem hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of 12 parade contingents at Umsaw Patharkhmah ground.
At Jengjal Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Rupert M. Momin hoisted the National Flag and took the Rashtriya Salute of 16 marching contingents at Jengjal Playground.
At Dalu Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Subir Marak hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of 14 parade contingents at Dalu Government Higher Secondary School Playground.
At Rongjeng Civil Sub-Division: MLA,Shri Arbinstone B. Marak hoisted the National Flag at Milawe in Rongjeng Civil Sub-Division and took the Rashtriya Salute of 10 parade contingents comprising of school and college students.
At Chokpot Civil Sub-Division: MLA, Shri Ian Botham K. Sangma hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of the 16 parade contingents from different schools and one MLP Bn contingent at Chokpot Sports Association Playground, Warima.
Other highlights of the celebration include cultural programmes by various schools and games and sports for children.
At Hima Shangpung (Laskein C&RD Block), MLA, Dr M. Ampareen Lyngdoh hoisted the National Flag and took the Salute of the 18 marching contingents at Hula Playground, Moosyiem, Shangpung.