Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, presenting the state budget, highlighted his government’s unparalleled commitment to sports development.
“No government in Meghalaya’s history has supported sports like ours,” he remarked, underlining the transformative initiatives undertaken since 2018.
The state has invested an unprecedented Rs. 1,500 crore in sports infrastructure over the past five years, a stark contrast to the Rs. 100 crore allocated between 2001 and 2018.
This substantial funding underscores the administration’s vision to channel the energy of Meghalaya’s youth toward a brighter future.
Since 2022, Meghalaya has successfully hosted over ten national and international sporting events, including the Indian Super League, the Durand Cup, the Elite Men’s Boxing Championship, and the ICF World Cup Qualifiers.
These efforts have significantly boosted the state’s sporting achievements, with Meghalaya securing five medals at the 38th National Games—its joint highest tally to date.
The state’s readiness and dedication have also secured it the opportunity to host the 39th National Games in 2027, outshining larger competitors like Chhattisgarh and Assam.
Looking forward, the Meghalaya Sports Action Plan outlines ambitious goals for the next three years, with Rs. 1,900 crore allocated for sports development, including preparations for the upcoming National Games.
A centerpiece of this initiative is the Rs. 732 crore Mawkhanu Football Complex, a 40,000-capacity stadium set to break ground in the next financial year.
This landmark project aspires to position Meghalaya as the “Football Capital of India.” Complementing this vision are grassroots initiatives that include 25 new artificial turfs, 140 grassroots centres, and financial grants for local clubs to nurture emerging talent.
Ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the J.N. Stadium, P.A. Sangma Sports Complex, Ampati Stadium, and Jongksha Indoor Stadium, are nearing completion.
The state has allocated Rs. 236 crore for these developments and new projects in the 2025-26 budget.
Additionally, the recently introduced Meghalaya Outstanding Sportspersons Direct Appointment Policy promises government jobs for athletes who excel at national and international levels in recognised sports.
The government’s efforts extend beyond infrastructure, focusing on providing youth with exposure at regional, national, and international levels.
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The revamped Chief Minister’s Youth Exchange Program aims to identify and nurture talent, enabling selected participants to attend exposure visits and learning programs across India and abroad.
Over the next three years, this initiative is expected to benefit 30,000 youth, supported by a Rs. 10 crore budget.
Meanwhile, the creative economy is undergoing a significant transformation.
The state-owned OTT platform, Hello Meghalaya, offers financial incentives of up to Rs. 5 lakh per film and Rs. 18,000 per month for digital content creators, promoting content in Khasi, Garo, Pnar, and other local languages.
The Meghalaya Grassroot Music Program has disbursed Rs. 18 crore to support local artists and event managers.
For these initiatives, Rs. 35 crore has been earmarked in the upcoming fiscal year.
Chief Minister Sangma reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering the state’s youth and preserving its rich cultural heritage.
“This is a time for celebration and renewed dedication to innovative programs and investments that drive growth and opportunity,” he stated.
