Situated in the Songsak C&RD Block of East Garo Hills District in Meghalaya, Sokadam Sokmitegre village has long grappled with difficulties in organizing community gatherings and events due to the absence of a dedicated community hall. This report sheds light on the transformative effect of the Community Hall on social interactions and community cohesion within the village.
Background:
With a population of 159 individuals spread across 27 households, Sokadam Sokmitegre village is predominantly inhabited by members of the Garo community. Despite limited infrastructure, such as education, healthcare, and transportation, the village benefits from reliable electricity connectivity. Most villagers rely on agriculture for their livelihoods, with many engaging in daily wage labor.
Challenges Faced:
Before the construction of the Community Hall, residents encountered challenges in convening village meetings and hosting events. The lack of a centralized space compelled them to use alternative venues, such as the school compound or individual households, resulting in reduced community participation and communication barriers.
Objectives:
The primary goals of the Community Hall initiative were to:
– Understand and address social issues within the village.
– Foster community participation and support local activities.
– Enhance social interaction and strengthen neighborly bonds.
Project Implementation:
Through the Community Led Landscape Management Project under the Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (CLLMP-MBMA), Sokadam Sokmitegre village secured funding amounting to Rs.1,50,000/- for the construction of a Community Hall. Construction commenced on April 18, 2023, and was successfully completed on June 9, 2023.
Impact:
Since the establishment of the Community Hall, residents of all ages have exhibited increased enthusiasm and active participation in village meetings and events. The centralized space has facilitated smoother coordination and communication, resulting in improved community cohesion and a decrease in instances of miscommunication and disagreement.
 During construction |
 After completion |
Acknowledgments:
The residents of Sokadam Sokmitegre extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Village Natural Resource Management Committee (VNRMC) representatives and the CLLMP DPMU staff for their dedication in ensuring the successful implementation of the Community Hall project. Their efforts have significantly contributed to the positive transformation of the village’s social dynamics.
Conclusion:
The construction of the Community Hall in Sokadam Sokmitegre village has yielded tangible improvements in community engagement and cohesion. By providing a centralized space for meetings and events, the initiative has bolstered social bonds and fostered