Montfort secondary school wins inter-school dance competition at Bolchugre

Tura, October 13, 2026: Montfort Secondary School, Dilni Bolchugre, emerged as the winner of an inter-school dance competition organised to mark the International Day of the Girl Child at Bolchugre Multi-Facility Centre (MFC) under Gambegre C&RD Block on Tuesday.
The competition was organised by the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Department of Social Welfare, West Garo Hills, Tura, to promote girl child empowerment and raise awareness about girls’ rights, education and health while providing a platform for young talent.

Eight schools from Gambegre Block participated in the event, presenting traditional Garo folk dances and contemporary performances highlighting the theme of women’s empowerment.
Dr. S. R. Marak, Medical and Health Officer at Darengre Primary Health Centre, attended the programme as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, she highlighted the importance of adolescent health, maternal care, proper nutrition and hygiene in ensuring the overall well-being of girls.
She also stressed the need to overcome societal barriers through education and creative expression, urging greater awareness of health and hygiene practices among adolescent girls.

The programme began at 11 am with an opening prayer by Tengsrang D. Sangma, District Facilitator, DSWO, Tura. This was followed by a welcome address from Stern Herdton B. Marak, Supervisor, DSWO, Tura, who emphasised the community’s role in safeguarding child rights and ensuring equal opportunities for girls.
A pledge-reading session under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan was also held during the programme. The performances were evaluated on choreography, rhythm, costume authenticity, stage presence and relevance to the theme of the International Day of the Girl Child. The judging panel comprised Dodim Ch. Marak and Isha A. Sangma of Tura Dance Academy.

Mother Camino Secondary School, Balamagre, secured second place, while Bolchugre Secondary School, Bolchugre, finished third. Dr. Marak presented cash prizes and certificates to the winning teams, while all participating schools received certificates of participation.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Cherandha A. Sangma, Gender Specialist, DHEW, Tura, who thanked the village elders, teachers and students for their support in making the event successful. Light refreshments were served to the attendees.

