By Our Reporter
Shillong, Oct 13: The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma, announced a substantial allocation of Rs 1,000 crore for the development of sports infrastructure in the state over the next five years.
This momentous declaration was made during his recent address while laying the foundation stone for a new stadium in Rongjeng, East Garo Hills. The Rongjeng stadium project is estimated to cost Rs 9.25 crore.
Comparing the achievements of his government over the last five years to the preceding decades, Chief Minister Sangma noted that from Meghalaya’s inception in 1972 until 2018, the state had invested Rs 400 crore in sports infrastructure.
Astonishingly, his government matched this figure within the span of five years from 2018 to 2023.
The Rongjeng project encompasses the construction of a football ground and a spectators’ gallery. As part of the state’s ambitious infrastructure development goals, there are plans to install artificial turf on 25 football grounds throughout Meghalaya and construct indoor stadiums for various sports disciplines.Chief Minister Sangma also disclosed that Tura will be hosting the Meghalaya Games 2023 this year, an event expected to bring together more than 3,000 athletes from various regions within the state.
“Our primary focus is to create superior sports infrastructure and ensure that our youth have the necessary platforms to unleash their talents,” emphasized the Chief Minister.This significant investment in sports infrastructure signifies Meghalaya’s commitment to nurturing athletic talents and promoting a culture of sports within the state.
The allocation of Rs 1,000 crore over the next five years is expected to facilitate the growth and development of sports at various levels, creating opportunities for aspiring athletes and contributing to the overall well-being of the state’s sporting community.
