From Our Correspondent
Williamnagar, May 27: In a significant boost to sports infrastructure in the region, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday inaugurated the first-ever synthetic artificial turf in East Garo Hills at the Rongrenggre Playground in Williamnagar.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that the state-of-the-art facility would be a game-changer for the youth of Williamnagar and the wider Garo Hills region.
“This new turf will not only encourage football but will also provide a dedicated and modern space for our youth to nurture their talent. It is part of our larger vision to make Meghalaya the football capital of India,” Sangma declared.
The installation in Williamnagar is part of a broader initiative by the state government, with 25 similar turfs currently under construction across Meghalaya and another 35 in the pipeline.
“We are targeting a total of over 50 synthetic turfs to ensure widespread access to modern sports facilities,” the Chief Minister added.
Highlighting the government’s youth-centric approach over the past seven years, Sangma stressed the importance of creating opportunities beyond the classroom.
“Our youth are one of our most valuable assets. If we guide them with the right tools, resources, and motivation, they will become productive and responsible citizens,” he said.
Reaffirming Meghalaya’s commitment to becoming a sports powerhouse, the Chief Minister announced that the state will host the National Games in 2027 for the very first time.
He also underlined the importance of aligning Meghalaya’s sports infrastructure with national and international standards and cited the successful hosting of the Meghalaya Games as a step in the right direction.
Reflecting on the state’s journey in sports development, Sangma recalled the pivotal cabinet meeting held in Tura in 2018, where the state’s sports policy was first drafted. Since then, he noted, Meghalaya has made steady progress across education, sports, and talent utilization.
To identify and promote local talent, Sangma highlighted the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP) — a platform where individuals can showcase their skills and earn an income. “Our vision is to bring Meghalaya into the top 10 Indian states.
That means focusing on holistic development — from education to healthcare, sports to employment,” he said, adding that steps are already being taken to ensure an adequate number of doctors by 2033 and the establishment of a professional faculty management body.
The newly inaugurated synthetic turf in Rongrenggre has been constructed to meet international standards, including a VIP rostrum, changing rooms, and other key amenities.
The turf has successfully passed stringent tests under the FIFA Quality Program for Football Turf, officially certifying it for high-level play — a proud moment for the people of Garo Hills.
With a vision to empower youth and foster a thriving sports culture, the inauguration of the turf in Williamnagar marks another bold step in Meghalaya’s journey towards excellence in sports.