Jowai: Over 15,000 athletes and spectators gathered at the Wahiajer Multi Sports Complex Stadium in Jowai for the opening ceremony of the 6th Meghalaya Games.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma addressed the audience, emphasising that sports go beyond just winning medals—they are about building character, fostering discipline, and instilling hard work.
In his address, the chief minister highlighted the state government’s strong commitment to prioritising the youth of Meghalaya.
He explained that organising such sporting events plays a key role in nurturing young talent and honing their skills.
“Youth are an important part of our policy-making. All the schemes we implement for the Meghalaya Games, as well as the previous four editions of this event, are demonstrations of our dedication to the development of our youth,” he said.
The chief minister also shared valuable advice for the athletes, urging them to view both victory and defeat as learning experiences. “Sports are about discipline, hard work, accepting defeat, learning from it, and improving your skills,” he stated.
“It’s about building character.”
Sangma further discussed the government’s approach to hosting the Games, emphasising the importance of rotating the venues to ensure all districts benefit from the opportunity.
“Every region has its own strengths, and we want to bring the games to different parts of the state. This not only provides exposure to athletes but also fosters unity and community spirit among our people,” he explained.
He also pointed out the significant infrastructural development in Jowai and the surrounding areas, made possible by the hosting of the event.
“By rotating the venues, we ensure that every district has a chance to host these games and benefit from the development that accompanies it,” he added.
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While competition is a key element of the games, Sangma encouraged athletes to focus on the enjoyment of the sport itself.
“It’s not just about winning; it’s about becoming a better person, participating fully, and cherishing these moments, as they will stay with you forever,” he concluded.
The 6th Meghalaya Games promises to be a pivotal event in the state’s sporting calendar, with the chief minister’s speech resonating as a reminder of the long-term benefits of sports in shaping the future of Meghalaya’s youth.
