Tura, Sept. 1: The 69th birth anniversary of Purno Agitok Sangma was observed here today by his followers, family and supporters who fondly recollected his life and political career, spanning over three decades.

His birth anniversary also marked the fourth foundation day of the National Peoples' Party (NPP), formed by Sangma after he severed ties with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in 2012.

His widow Soradini, daughter Agatha and elder son and legislator James led the party in paying tributes at the district auditorium here.

Younger son and Tura MP Conrad was at the forefront in Parliament to honour his father at the central hall along with other MPs in New Delhi.

"My late father's vision was for a better Garo hills and he always believed in the saying 'there is no substitute for hard work'," James said while addressing party workers and supporters.

Dwelling on the power of the youth, he recalled how Sangma gave adequate space to the younger generation in the political field.

"He always emphasised on education, providing the youth with responsibilities so that new generation of leaders would emerge to take Garo hills forward. That is the reason he chose the book as the party symbol," James added.

Garo Hills Autonomous District Council chief executive member Denang T. Sangma said Sangma brought fame for Garo hills and its people throughout the country and beyond. "No leader has achieved the stature which P.A. Sangma attained. He was truly the leader of the Garo people."

Close confidante of late Sangma and former Rajya Sabha MP, Thomas A. Sangma, recalled his friendship with the veteran leader during his days as a college student.

"Thirty-four years ago when I was a college student, Sangma arrived at our institute to interact with the students. Since then we have remained close friends," said Thomas.