The Nongrang clan on June 1, marked a historic milestone as they celebrated the appointment of Idashisha Nongrang as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Meghalaya.
It may be noted that this is the significant achievement which makes her the first Khasi woman to hold this prestigious position. The Government of Meghalaya recently appointed Idashisha Nongrang, a 1992 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, following the retirement of Dr. L.R. Bishnoi.
In a heartfelt felicitation program held at the residence of Mrs. Marbha Nongrang in Umbir, Ri Bhoi District, clan leaders and members gathered to honor Idashisha Nongrang, fondly referred to as ‘Mem’ by her family. The event was attended by prominent clan leaders Switbert Nongrang and Diwarson Nongrang, among others.
The ceremony commenced and concluded with prayers, seeking divine guidance and wisdom for Idashisha as she undertakes her new role. The clan leaders expressed immense pride and joy over her accomplishment, acknowledging her selfless dedication and hard work.
Idashisha Nongrang’s journey to becoming DGP was described as arduous but driven by unwavering support from her family. She attributed her success to this encouragement and the blessings of God. Speaking at the event, Idashisha shared her gratitude and reflected on her path. She revealed that after passing the IPS exam, her father had hoped she would pursue the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). However, she chose to remain in the IPS, feeling it was her destined path.
“I never expected to become the Director General of Police. This achievement is a testament to the support of my family and the grace of God,” she said. Idashisha also credited a particular family member for their constant encouragement, which she said played a crucial role in her journey.
Mrs. B. Nongrang, Principal of UCC Higher Secondary School, spoke on behalf of Idashisha’s household, expressing gratitude to the clan for organizing the felicitation. She highlighted that Idashisha’s achievement is a moment of immense pride not just for the Nongrang clan but for the entire Khasi tribe and the state of Meghalaya.
As a token of appreciation, the clan presented Idashisha with Ryndia shawls, bouquets, and a memento. The leaders emphasized that her success serves as an inspiration to the younger generation in Meghalaya, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can overcome any obstacles.
The Nongrang clan leaders urged Idashisha to serve with integrity and impartiality, acknowledging the challenges she will face in her role. They encouraged her to seek wisdom from God to guide her in eradicating societal evils and serving the people of Meghalaya faithfully.
Idashisha Nongrang’s appointment as DGP is not just a personal triumph but a landmark achievement that symbolizes progress and empowerment for women in the Khasi community and beyond.
Avoid the Tobacco Death Trap: Padma Shri Dr. S. Sahariah Urges Youngsters
Nongpoh, June 2: A distinguished assembly of doctors, academicians, and students convened at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) on May 31 to commemorate World No Tobacco Day. The event, aimed at raising awareness about the life-threatening effects of tobacco consumption, was organized by the Indian Dental Association Assam State Branch in collaboration with the Department of ENT and the Department of Dentistry at PA Sangma International Hospital, USTM.
The celebration featured prominent figures such as Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of USTM; Padma Shri Dr. Sarbeswar Sahariah, Pro Vice Chancellor of USTM; Prof. Dr. Biraj Kumar Das, Principal of PIMC; Dr. Amar Nath, President of the Indian Dental Association, Assam; Dr. Ripan Das, President of the Indian Dental Association, Guwahati Branch; Dr. Jogesh Sharma, Director of Health Education and Research at PIMC; Dr. Munindra Baruah, Head and Neck Oncosurgeon & Member of the Union for International Cancer Control; Dr. Pratim Talukdar, Associate Professor, Department of Dentistry, USTM, and Hon. Secretary of the Indian Dental Association, Assam State Branch; and Dr. Rashna Dass Hazarika, Medical Superintendent of PIMC. The event also saw participation from other doctors, academicians, and students.
Key discussions during the event included topics such as Oral Cancer and its Prevention, Risk Factors of Cancer in Northeast India, and the choice between Smoking or Health.
Padma Shri Dr. Sarbeswar Sahariah stressed the importance of avoiding tobacco, stating, “Those who consume tobacco die very early. Both human health and the environment are adversely affected by smoking. Passive smoking is even more dangerous.” He emphasized the need for the younger generation to understand that it is never too late to quit smoking. Highlighting the prevalence of tobacco use among lower-income groups, he urged, “If you are trapped, come out as soon as possible.”
Chancellor Shri Mahbubul Hoque highlighted the role of the upcoming medical college in creating awareness, saying, “Our upcoming medical college will play a vital role in creating awareness. Prevention is better than cure, so we must focus on creating awareness.”
In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Biraj Kumar Das pointed out that Assam and Meghalaya have the highest rates of oral cancer in the Northeast, emphasizing the critical need to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco consumption to combat cancer.
Dr. Amar Nath expressed his gratitude to USTM for hosting the event. The program featured enriching speeches and presentations by Dr. Jogesh Sharma, Dr. Ripan Das, and Prof. Dr. Mridul Sharma.
