By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Hally War from Meghalaya received the Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu on May 25 in recognition of his lifelong contribution to preserving the state’s famed living root bridges.
Sharing the achievement, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said he felt honoured to witness the conservationist being presented with the prestigious civilian award by the President. Sangma recalled visiting Siej village and described himself as deeply moved by War’s knowledge, humility and commitment towards environmental conservation.
A resident of Siej village in East Khasi Hills district, War has devoted decades to nurturing the aerial roots of rubber fig trees to create and preserve the traditional living root bridges, popularly known as Jingkieng Jri.
He learned the indigenous technique during childhood under the guidance of his grandfather. Reflecting on his early years, War said what began as a playful activity of directing tree roots gradually became a deeper understanding of the cultural and practical importance of the bridges.
Over time, he played a key role in maintaining several living root bridges around his village while also encouraging younger generations to safeguard the fragile ecosystem surrounding them. The bridges, developed from the roots of Ficus elastica trees stretched across streams and ravines, are capable of lasting for centuries despite Meghalaya’s intense monsoon conditions.
War has repeatedly stressed the need to preserve these natural structures, noting that they require years to strengthen and represent a heritage that cannot simply be replaced with modern concrete constructions.
Congratulating him on the honour, Sangma said War’s dedication reflected how preserving culture, protecting nature and passing down traditional knowledge are equally important aspects of nation-building. He described the recognition as well deserved.
The living root bridges of Meghalaya have gained increasing international attention in recent years. India has already submitted a nomination dossier seeking UNESCO World Heritage status for the Jingkieng Jri cultural landscape during the 2026-27 evaluation cycle.
