Shillong: As part of preparations for the 39th National Games in 2027, the Meghalaya Government organised a special event, “Grants-in-Aid for Team Preparation,” at the State Convention Centre in Shillong.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA), aims to enhance the state’s sports infrastructure and support athletes.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma emphasised the state’s commitment to transforming its sports ecosystem.
“Sports in Meghalaya have gained incredible momentum, with contributions from associations, officials, leaders, and sportspersons. Investments like Rs. 1,900 crore for infrastructure, including nearly 50 artificial turfs and advanced track and field facilities, reflect our dedication to the youth’s future,” he said.
Highlighting Meghalaya’s historic opportunity as the host of the National Games, Sangma described it as the state’s largest event ever and called for efforts to set a national benchmark for excellence.
He urged athletes to aim for at least 50 medals and announced collaborations with the Tourism Department to develop homestays and boutique hotels, fostering entrepreneurship and improving tourism infrastructure.
As part of the “Team Meghalaya” initiative, Rs. 39.17 crore in grants were sanctioned to 26 state sports associations and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) to support athlete training and preparation.
Sangma noted, “For the first time in the country’s history, a state government is directly providing grants-in-aid to sports associations.”
The chief minister also proposed making the National Games a “green event” by incorporating eco-friendly practices, including biodegradable materials and starch-based bottles, in collaboration with local entrepreneurs.
Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri reiterated the government’s resolve to strengthen infrastructure and support systems for athletes.
“Our goal is to see Meghalaya’s athletes achieve success at national and international levels,” he said.
Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang called the preparations a “golden period” for sports in Meghalaya and expressed confidence in the state’s ability to deliver a successful National Games.
Dr. Vijay Kumar D, Commissioner & Secretary of DSYA, reflected on Meghalaya’s selection as the host state during the closing ceremony of the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand, crediting the tireless efforts of the Chief Minister and Sports Minister for securing the honour.
He outlined the government’s focus on infrastructure, team preparation, and empowering sports associations to make autonomous decisions.
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The event also celebrated the achievement of 20-year-old Rifiness Warjri, who was honoured with Rs. 5 lakh by the chief minister and Rs. 1 lakh by DSYA for summiting Mount Everest.
Sharing her journey, Warjri recalled overcoming challenges such as acute mountain sickness to achieve her goal.
Dignitaries in attendance included Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma; Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri; Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh; Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang; and other prominent figures from the Meghalaya government and sports associations.
