By Our Reporter
Shillong, March 8: An athletics competition aimed at promoting women’s participation in sports was organised at Marngar in Ri-Bhoi district as part of nationwide celebrations marking International Women’s Day.
The event formed part of the ASMITA Athletics League (Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action), an initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, designed to encourage greater involvement of women in athletics. The league is being conducted simultaneously at around 250 venues across the country through the joint efforts of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and MY Bharat. In Meghalaya, the programme is being held at three locations — Ri-Bhoi, West Khasi Hills and East Garo Hills.
As part of this initiative, the Khelo India Centre at St. Alfred’s Higher Secondary School in Marngar, in collaboration with MY Bharat Ri-Bhoi, organised a women’s athletics meet on March 7 at the Marngar Sports Complex.
The competition featured track events including the 100 metres, 200 metres and 400 metres races across several age categories — under-13 years, 13–18 years and 18 years and above — along with a tug-of-war group event. Participants from different age groups took part enthusiastically, turning the occasion into a vibrant celebration of women’s sporting spirit. During the ceremony, medals and certificates were presented to the winners of various events.
In the 100 metres race under the 18-plus category, Unity Rado secured first place, while Daplang Makri finished second and Wonti Sylliang claimed third position.
Organisers said the event was intended not only to celebrate International Women’s Day but also to encourage more girls and women to participate actively in sports.
By providing a platform for competition and recognition at the grassroots level, initiatives like the ASMITA Athletics League seek to nurture sporting talent and strengthen the culture of athletics among young women across the country.
