By Our Reporter
Shillong, June 24: In a significant move to boost the state’s sporting prospects ahead of the 39th National Games in 2027, the Government of Meghalaya sanctioned a total grant of ₹39.17 crore under the “Grants-in-Aid for Team Preparation” initiative.
The announcement was made during a special event organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA) at the State Convention Centre in Shillong on Tuesday.
The event, attended by key stakeholders from the sports community, marked another milestone in the state’s mission to transform its sporting ecosystem. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, in his address, described the occasion as a turning point for Meghalaya sports and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to nurturing athletic talent across the state.
Rs1,900-Cr Infrastructure Push
The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s robust investment of ₹1,900 crore into sports infrastructure. This includes the development of nearly 50 artificial turfs—more than any other state in India—and the construction of synthetic track and field facilities, the largest of their kind in Eastern India.
“These are not just structures; they are investments into the future of our youth,” said Sangma.
Grants to 26 Associations
As part of the Team Meghalaya initiative, the sanctioned funds will directly benefit 26 state sports associations and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA), enabling structured training, logistical support, and competitive exposure.
“For the first time in the country, a state government is directly providing grants-in-aid to local sports associations in this manner,” Sangma remarked, adding that since 2018, the government has already disbursed over ₹15 crore to the Shillong Sports Association alone.
Aiming for 50 Medals
Meghalaya will host the National Games for the first time in 2027—a landmark event the Chief Minister described as the “largest ever to be held in the state.” He urged athletes and associations to set a medal target of at least 50 podium finishes during the Games.
“We want to set a benchmark in how a state hosts the National Games,” he said.
Green Games & Local Entrepreneurship
In an effort to align the Games with sustainable practices, Sangma proposed making the 2027 event a “green” one. Initiatives like biodegradable bags and starch-based bottles will be adopted in partnership with local entrepreneurs.
Simultaneously, the government plans to work closely with the Tourism Department to encourage homestays and boutique accommodations for visiting athletes—boosting both tourism and local entrepreneurship.
Trust and Autonomy for Sports Bodies
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of empowering sports associations with autonomy and flexible funding, stressing the need for trust-based governance to ensure optimal athlete preparation.
“Our role is to support, not control. We believe associations are best placed to make decisions for their athletes,” he stated.
Honouring Mountaineering Heroics
The event also celebrated the achievement of 20-year-old Rifiness Warjri, who recently summited Mount Everest. She was felicitated with a ₹5 lakh reward from the Chief Minister and an additional ₹1 lakh from the DSYA.
In a candid moment, when asked whether she ever thought of giving up, Warjri replied, “I suffered acute mountain sickness while climbing Lobuche Peak, but that summit gave me the belief that Everest was within reach.”As Meghalaya intensifies its preparation for the 39th National Games, Tuesday’s announcements signal a clear message—the state is determined not just to host a historic event, but to shine on the national sporting stage.