Meghalaya Makes Khasi and Garo Mandatory in Foundational Education to Strengthen Cultural Roots

The Meghalaya government has rolled out a new foundational-stage curriculum that makes Khasi and Garo compulsory for children up to Class 1, aiming to simplify early learning while strengthening students’ connection with local culture and heritage.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the initiative is designed to instil confidence and a strong sense of identity among children from their formative years. Emphasising the importance of mother-tongue education, he noted that early exposure to indigenous languages helps children develop a deeper sense of belonging. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by him on Friday.

According to officials, the newly developed textbooks will be introduced on an optional basis in the upcoming academic year, as many schools have already finalised their syllabi. The curriculum will become mandatory from the following academic session.

The revised foundational curriculum, spanning preschool to Class 1, places emphasis on ease of learning, value-based education, and an early introduction to Meghalaya’s history, culture, and traditions.

In addition to education reforms, the cabinet approved a revised pay structure for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and ad hoc teachers, addressing a long-standing demand. The chief minister termed the move a recognition of their vital role and a step towards ensuring greater stability within the education system.

The cabinet also cleared a five-year Mission Mode HIV/AIDS project with a budget allocation of ₹25 crore, focusing on awareness generation, infrastructure strengthening, and targeted interventions across the state.

Other key decisions included amendments to the Meghalaya Building Bye Laws, 2021, making green building certification mandatory for large-scale constructions. Former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice S. Vaidyanathan was appointed as the chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission.

Further, the cabinet approved the formation of the Meghalaya Livelihoods and Investment Financing Cooperative Society Ltd to support cooperative societies, agriculture, and food processing sectors through working capital and investment assistance. Approval was also granted for the creation of a National Games Secretariat Society to oversee preparations for the 39th National Games.

Source: PTI