From Our Correspondent
Nongpoh, March 5: A significant moment unfolded in the history of Ri Bhoi District as the state government, through the sports department, laid the foundation stone for an Artificial Turf at Umbuda Football Playground in Ri Bhoi District.
Valued at 11 crores, the Artificial Turf project received approval from the Sports Department of the Meghalaya government.
The ceremony, graced by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, witnessed the auspicious laying of the foundation stone. Attendees included Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri, Local MLA of Nongpoh Mayral Born Syiem, Local MLA of Jirang Sosthenes Sohtun, MDC of Nongpoh Balajied Rani, and officials from various line departments.
The event drew a sizable gathering of local residents from Nongpoh Area.
This initiative marks a pivotal moment as Ri Bhoi District sees its first-ever Artificial Football Turf.
The endeavor aims to empower youth in the realm of sports and games, recognizing the district’s contribution to producing talented sports personalities who have brought honour to both the district and the state through their achievements in various sports.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, expressed profound gratitude to the Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, the local MLA of Nongpoh, and the sports department for their unwavering dedication in realizing this project, transforming vision into reality.
Highlighting the sports department’s outstanding performance as a significant milestone in the state’s history, the Chief Minister revealed that a record number of projects, totaling 700 crores, are currently underway, surpassing cumulative efforts over the past 45 years of statehood.
He further disclosed plans for an additional 200 crores in the coming years, bringing the MDA government’s total investment in the sports sector to over 1000 crores.
Emphasizing the commitment to sports development, he cited the forthcoming construction of the largest stadium in Mawkhanu, estimated at Rs 385 crores, in the new Shillong Township area.
The Chief Minister reiterated the ceremony’s significance in showcasing steadfast dedication to nurturing youth aspirations.
He underscored this commitment by referencing the inauguration of another artificial turf worth nearly 11 crores in Siju, South Garo Hills, the previous day, as a testament to equitable development across Meghalaya.