SHILLONG : Meghalaya Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai on Friday reflected on his journey from a humble childhood to public office, telling an audience that he once helped his mother sell vegetables and now feels confident enough to “sleep at home” ahead of the next election.
Shullai, who holds the portfolios of Art & Culture and Social Welfare, was speaking at a government programme organised for persons with disabilities in collaboration with national institutions and private partners. Sharing his personal story, the minister said he was born in a small rented house and grew up in a poor family. He recalled helping his mother by carrying and selling vegetables during his younger days.
“I thank God because I was born in a small rented house and in a poor family,” Shullai said while addressing the gathering.
To him, those early struggles shaped his outlook on life and inspired him to work for society. He said he later became involved with various social organisations and community initiatives, driven by a desire to serve people. The minister told the audience that his commitment to public service eventually led him into politics.
Reflecting on his political career, Shullai said he went on to become an undisputed Member of District Council (MDC) for five consecutive terms before being elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). He used his own journey as an example while encouraging beneficiaries attending the programme, stressing that difficult beginnings do not prevent people from achieving success.
During his speech, Shullai also referred to the life stories of former Presidents Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Dr. Rajendra Prasad, as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying their backgrounds demonstrated how determination and hard work can overcome obstacles.
The programme was organised by the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under the Social Welfare Department, the State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (SCSTE), and the Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities in collaboration with Instalimb India Pvt. Ltd.
The initiative included the distribution of advanced prosthetic and orthotic aids to selected beneficiaries from different parts of Meghalaya and a training programme focused on modern 3D digital applications in rehabilitation care.
However, it was Shullai’s remarks on his political future that drew attention. Expressing confidence in his support base, the minister said he does not need to worry about the outcome of the next election.
“I can sleep at home because victory is already assured,” he said.
The statement capped a speech that combined personal reflection, public service and political confidence, as the minister recounted a journey that began with selling vegetables alongside his mother and led to a long career in public life.