In a heartwarming pre-Christmas gesture, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday shared an 'early Christmas breakfast' with the dedicated staff of the Shillong Municipal Board. The event was organised to honour the often-overlooked contributions of these workers as the festive season approaches.
A Tribute to the City's Unsung Heroes
Taking to social media, the Chief Minister expressed his deep appreciation for the municipal workforce. He described the breakfast as a "truly meaningful way to close the year" spent with the "unsung heroes" of the city. Conrad Sangma emphasised that these remarkable individuals work tirelessly, often without recognition, to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of Shillong.
He shared a personal anecdote, recalling a late evening when he saw them cleaning near Ward's Lake. "I stopped to meet them, and in that moment I realised how often we enjoy clean streets and surroundings without ever acknowledging the hands that make it possible," the CM wrote. He stated that this realisation made the early Christmas breakfast a very special occasion for him.
Call for Gratitude and Community Care
In his message of gratitude, the Chief Minister extended his festive wishes and urged citizens to reflect on the dignity of labour. "As we celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year, may we pause with gratitude in our hearts, honour their dignity, and walk alongside them in caring for our beautiful city," Conrad Sangma said.
This was not the only festive engagement for the state's leader that week. Earlier, on Wednesday, he had participated in pre-Christmas celebrations with officials at the state secretariat. Reflecting on that gathering, he noted that sharing a meal with the hard-working team that keeps the system running is truly the best way to celebrate the season.
Recognising Ground-Level Service
The Chief Minister's actions highlight a consistent effort to connect with and acknowledge the contributions of government employees at all levels. By personally joining the municipal workers for a meal, Conrad Sangma underscored the importance of the essential services they provide daily, which form the backbone of a clean and functional urban environment.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the spirit of community and gratitude that defines the Christmas season in Meghalaya, a state where the festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. It reinforced the message that progress and cleanliness are collective responsibilities, built on the respect for every individual's work.
