By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 2: Meghalaya has secured a total of eight medals at the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 being held in Chhattisgarh, according to a press release issued by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs on April 2.
The state has won two gold medals in archery and six bronze medals across athletics, swimming, wrestling and weightlifting events. Meghalaya is currently placed 12th in the overall medal tally.
The two gold medals were won in archery under the compound women team and compound men team events.In athletics, Bethlyne G. Makri of Ri-Bhoi district won bronze in the 10,000m race walking event, while Balarisha Thyrniang of East Khasi Hills secured bronze in the 10,000m run. Melibad Kro of Ri-Bhoi district also won bronze in shot put.In swimming, Verem Gediah Nongsiiej of East Khasi Hills district won bronze in the 50m freestyle event.
In wrestling, Lartingka Lawriniang of Eastern West Khasi Hills district secured a bronze medal.
In weightlifting, Juh Pa U Juh Nongtdu of West Jaintia Hills district won bronze.
The department stated that Meghalaya has accelerated preparations for the 39th National Games, to be hosted by the state in 2027, with investments in sports infrastructure, athlete development and youth engagement.
As part of the preparation roadmap, ₹40 crore has been sanctioned as Phase I support to 27 state sports associations to strengthen training and development across disciplines. The government stated that this approach is aimed at empowering associations with operational autonomy to appoint coaches, support staff and organise discipline-specific training camps.
The department informed that around 2,000 athletes are currently undergoing structured training across the state, supported by improved infrastructure, newly recruited coaches and enhanced access to equipment.
It further congratulated all medal winners, coaches and associations for their contribution and reiterated its commitment to strengthening the sporting ecosystem in Meghalaya.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma In a post on his social media handle, stated that Team Meghalaya won two gold medals in archery, three bronze medals in athletics, one bronze medal each in swimming, wrestling and weightlifting.
He stated that the performance reflects the results of preparations initiated by the State government for the Games.The Chief Minister congratulated the athletes for their performance and said the state is proud of the team’s achievement.
