Shillong: The Preservation of Garo Cultural and Heritage Committee has started a state-wide search for descendants of the Garo Labour Corps. These men served in the 69th and 84th Companies during the First World War between 1917 and 1919. This drive follows directives issued by the Meghalaya Home Department and the Directorate of Arts and Culture between 2025 and 2026.
A specialized research group is now hunting for records. They are conducting archival studies and field verifications to build an official register. The committee wants families to step up. They need names, village origins, and genealogy records to confirm lineage. Items like medals, photos, old letters, and diaries are also helpful.
The committee said, "The participation of descendant families is essential to authenticate historical records, preserve family histories, and ensure that the contribution of the Garo Labour Corps is documented with historical accuracy." Oral histories are also welcome for the project.
Experts will compare all submitted data against military files, casualty registers, and memorial markers. Collected details stay within the bounds of research and scholarly work. The committee is coordinating with Deputy Commissioners, the GHADC, Nokmas, and local village leaders to track down descendants across Meghalaya and beyond. They believe this effort restores a lost chapter of local history.
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