In a heartwarming example of public service beyond official duties, IAS officer Swapnil Tembe chose to celebrate Holi by helping a rural family complete their newly built home under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in Meghalaya. Instead of participating in traditional festivities, the officer joined villagers in Myrkhan village to paint the house of a beneficiary, turning the festival of colours into a moment of community bonding and shared happiness.
A Unique Holi Celebration in Meghalaya
Holi, widely known as the festival of colours, symbolises joy, renewal, and the victory of good over evil. Across India, it is celebrated with vibrant colours, sweets, and gatherings. However, for IAS officer Swapnil Tembe, the festival this year became an opportunity to spread happiness in a more meaningful way.
Tembe travelled to Myrkhan village in Meghalaya, where he helped paint the house of a woman beneficiary of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). The house had recently been constructed under the government housing scheme.
Officer Joins Family, Friends and Villagers
The 2015-batch IAS officer did not undertake the initiative alone. He was joined by his mother, friends, colleagues, and villagers, who collectively participated in painting the house.
As brushes moved across the walls and colours began to brighten the new structure, the simple act turned into a celebration of community participation.
Sharing the moment on social media, Tembe wrote:
“On the occasion of Holi 2026, went to Myrkhan Village to paint the house of a PMAY beneficiary. Happy Holi.”
He further added:
“Let us bring colours to people’s lives. That is how I like to celebrate Holi. Thank you emi_daka for co-sponsoring the paints.”
A Special Day for the Beneficiary Family
For the woman beneficiary, the occasion marked more than just the finishing touches on her new house. The participation of the IAS officer and villagers turned the day into a memorable celebration of collective support.
Villagers joined in enthusiastically, bringing brushes, paints and festive spirit. The freshly painted walls symbolised not only a completed house but also the promise of a dignified living space supported by the community.
PMAY Housing Scheme in Meghalaya
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) aims to provide affordable housing to poor and vulnerable families across India.
In Meghalaya, the scheme has made significant progress. According to official figures:
• More than 25,000 houses have been approved under PMAY (Urban and Gramin).
• Over 23,600 houses have already been completed in the state.
The initiative continues to play a key role in improving housing access and living conditions for economically weaker families.
About IAS Officer Swapnil Tembe
Swapnil Tembe is an IAS officer of the 2015 batch from the Assam–Meghalaya cadre.
Key details about him include:
• Date of Birth: January 30, 1987
• Educational Qualification: B.Tech in Manufacturing Science and Engineering
• Current Role: Secretary in a government department in Meghalaya
• Additional Responsibility: Director, All India Services Pre-Examination Centre (AISPEC), Shillong
Throughout his career, Tembe has been recognised for his administrative capabilities as well as his strong commitment to community engagement.
Community Service Beyond Official Duties
Tembe’s Holi gesture highlighted how public servants can inspire community participation and social responsibility.
By spending the festival helping a rural family rather than celebrating conventionally, he demonstrated how small acts of kindness can create lasting impact.
The initiative also reinforced the spirit of Holi — spreading colour, joy and hope in people’s lives.
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