<p>Shillong: Activists in Meghalaya welcomed 2024 by diving into a pool of water filled with 1 ton of ice blocks, resolving to fight social ills that plague the state.</p><p>A total of 26 people, including four women, dived into the Crinoline swimming pool in Shillong at midnight, keeping up with the tradition that has been continuing for 26 years.</p><p>Former students' activist Michael Syiem, who is the convener of the Mait Shaphrang Movement, has been at the forefront of organising the event for years.</p><p>"The midnight dip is a sober celebration which has more to do with determination and strengthening of the inner self to face the challenges of life," he said.</p><p>A similar custom of midnight swim to welcome the new year is also prevalent in Argentina and some parts of Russia, participants said.</p><p>Meanwhile, as part of the Cherry Blossom Festival, American rapper Sean Kingston performed at the Polo grounds with revellers dancing to the beats till early morning.</p><p>Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma extended greetings to the people of the state on the occasion.</p><p>"May we begin 2024 with a renewed commitment to promoting peace, prosperity and progress," he said.</p><p>Governor Phagu Chauhan said, "As we step into the new year, let us bid adieu to the trials of the past and extend a cordial welcome to the opportunities that lie ahead. May the new year be adorned with moments of joy, growth and collective achievements."</p>
<p>Shillong: Activists in Meghalaya welcomed 2024 by diving into a pool of water filled with 1 ton of ice blocks, resolving to fight social ills that plague the state.</p><p>A total of 26 people, including four women, dived into the Crinoline swimming pool in Shillong at midnight, keeping up with the tradition that has been continuing for 26 years.</p><p>Former students' activist Michael Syiem, who is the convener of the Mait Shaphrang Movement, has been at the forefront of organising the event for years.</p><p>"The midnight dip is a sober celebration which has more to do with determination and strengthening of the inner self to face the challenges of life," he said.</p><p>A similar custom of midnight swim to welcome the new year is also prevalent in Argentina and some parts of Russia, participants said.</p><p>Meanwhile, as part of the Cherry Blossom Festival, American rapper Sean Kingston performed at the Polo grounds with revellers dancing to the beats till early morning.</p><p>Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma extended greetings to the people of the state on the occasion.</p><p>"May we begin 2024 with a renewed commitment to promoting peace, prosperity and progress," he said.</p><p>Governor Phagu Chauhan said, "As we step into the new year, let us bid adieu to the trials of the past and extend a cordial welcome to the opportunities that lie ahead. May the new year be adorned with moments of joy, growth and collective achievements."</p>