By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The State Government has decided to allot three acres of land in the new Shillong Township to the Meghalaya Table Tennis Association (MTTA) for setting up of a Table Tennis Academy.
Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma made the announcement while speaking during the closing ceremony of the South Asian Federation (SAF) Junior Table Tennis Championship 2012 here on Tuesday.
Dr Sangma also informed that the decision to allot the land was made following a discussion he had with members of the MTTA on the matter.
“We would also provide all logistic support in the setting up of the proposed academy,” Dr Sangma said while also hoping that the academy would be able to tap young talents from across the State.
Admitting that the Government in the past had not given due importance to development of sports, he said that the present Government has taken a positive step towards development of sports.
“We have increased fund allocations in this sector. We are looking forward to developing sports infrastructures in various parts of the State,” he added.
The Chief Minister hailed the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) for allowing the State to host such a prestigious international sporting event.
“It was great that we hosted this event since it coincides with the celebration the ‘Year of the Youth’ in Meghalaya,” Dr Sangma said.
Meanwhile, TTFI secretary general DR Choudhary suggested that the State Government should consider setting up of a table tennis academy for tapping young talents from various parts of the North Eastern region.
Choudhary also lauded the MTTA and the Government for successfully hosting the event.
“I have got feedbacks from all participating nations that this was one of the best organised international championship,” Choudhary added.
Other dignitaries present at the closing ceremony included Deputy Chief Minister Bindo M Lanong, MTTA president RG Lyngdoh and others.
A highlight of the closing ceremony was a performance by the AROHA Choir Group.