Discover the fascinating life and career of D. D. Lapang, a prominent Indian politician and former Chief Minister of Meghalaya. This comprehensive biography explores his journey from humble beginnings to a significant political figure.

Biography/Wiki

Dr. Donwa Dethwelson Lapang, popularly known as D. D. Lapang, is a highly influential Indian politician. He served as the Chief Minister of Meghalaya on four separate occasions, a testament to his enduring political career. Born on April 10, 1934, in Nongjri village, Ri Bhoi, Meghalaya, he has significantly impacted the state’s political landscape.

Physical Appearance

Standing at 5’6″ and weighing approximately 80 kg, D. D. Lapang is known for his distinct presence. He has black eyes and black hair.

Education & Career

D.D. Lapang’s educational journey began at Shillong Government High School. He later pursued and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Anthony’s College, Shillong. His early life involved various jobs, reflecting his hardworking nature. These included assisting his mother at her tea stall, working as a road laborer, and serving as a school teacher for five years. His career also encompassed a role in the Assam Civil Secretariat, where he progressed to become a Lower Division Assistant (typist). He further served as a Sub-Inspector of Schools for ten years before entering politics.

His political career began in 1972, when he successfully contested the Legislative Assembly Election from the Nongpoh L.A. Constituency as an independent candidate. This marked the start of a remarkable journey that saw him rise through the ranks to become Chief Minister.

Political Journey

His political career is marked by significant milestones:

• 1972: Elected MLA from Nongpoh L.A. Constituency as an Independent Candidate.
• 1978: Appointed Minister of State for Cooperation, Jails, Education, and Civil Defence.
• 1979: Elevated to Cabinet Minister, holding portfolios including Health and Family Welfare, Labour, and Information & Public Relations.
• 1988: Served as Deputy Minister of Home.
• 1992-1993: First term as Chief Minister of Meghalaya.
• 1993-1995: Chairman, State Planning Board.
• 1995-1997: Chairman, Commission on Resources Mobilization.
• 1998-2003: Served as Deputy Chief Minister.
• 2003-2006, 2007-2008, 2009-2010: Subsequent terms as Chief Minister of Meghalaya.
• September 2018: Resigned from the Indian National Congress, citing dissatisfaction with the treatment of senior party members.

Family & Wife

Hailing from a modest background, D. D. Lapang’s father was a tailor, and his mother ran a tea stall. His father’s death when he was only five years old profoundly impacted his early life. He married Amethyst Lynda Jomes Blah, a journalist, in 1958. The couple has one son and one daughter.

Facts

• His journey into education was facilitated by a priest who persuaded his mother to allow him to attend school in a nearby village.
• His early life involved selling tea in the Nongpoh market, the same constituency from which he was later elected as an MLA.

Key Political Roles & Tenures