SHILLONG, Jan 30: The Meghalaya government has requested Rs 100 crore from the Centre to support the preparations for the 39th National Games in 2027.
In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma requested support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to help develop competition venues, manage logistics, and coordinate with participating states, noting the scale and significance of the national event.
Describing the Games as a landmark opportunity, Sangma said bringing one of India’s largest multi-sport events to Meghalaya would accelerate infrastructural growth and enhance the state’s sporting capabilities.
He said the government has already invested nearly Rs 1,000 crore since signing the hosting agreement, resulting in the creation of over 200 sports facilities at various levels. An additional Rs 1,900 crore has been earmarked for sports development over the next three years. “By 2028, Meghalaya is expected to have more than 500 sports facilities across its blocks and districts,” Sangma said, highlighting plans for major projects such as the country’s largest football stadium, the first natural slalom course for river sports, world-class aquatics infrastructure, and modern gymnastics complexes—all designed to support a comprehensive sporting ecosystem.
Aligned with the national vision announced during the 38th National Games, the Chief Minister also indicated that select events of the 2027 edition may be hosted in partnership with other Northeastern states to promote regional growth.
He added that the overall expenditure for organising the Games—including accommodation, transportation, food, event management, promotion, and venue preparation—is estimated at around Rs 400 crore, underscoring the need for central assistance.
Meanwhile, the state government has sanctioned Rs 45 crore for the repair and resurfacing of major roads in Shillong as part of its readiness plan.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar told reporters that the initiative forms a key component of the government’s preparations.
The project covers the resurfacing of nearly 40-46 kilometres of damaged roads across the city. Similar upgrades are expected in other parts of the state by late 2026.
“We will also repaint road markings and barriers as part of the preparations,” Dhar said, adding that the beautification drive reflects the government’s broader effort to upgrade urban infrastructure ahead of the prestigious sporting event.
State drops plans for dedicated Games Village
The state government has decided against constructing a dedicated Games Village for the upcoming National Games, citing sufficient existing accommodation options.
Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla stated that the state now has adequate hotels and homestays to accommodate participants, eliminating the need for a new Games Village.
The minister confirmed that preparations for the Games are progressing satisfactorily. A recent high-level review meeting, convened at the request of Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, provided a detailed update on readiness. Officials briefed the attendees on infrastructure, accommodation, and logistics.
Shylla noted that recent inspections were conducted at key sports venues. In Shillong, checks covered the JN Complex Stadium (where an indoor hall is under construction) and New Shillong (where a swimming pool and aquatic stadium are being developed). He also visited sites in Garo Hills, including the PA Stadium, adjacent indoor hall, and related hostel and accommodation facilities.
Infrastructure work is on track overall, with venues to be completed in phases: some by March, others by June, and the remainder by October–November.
The Union Sports Minister recently reviewed progress in a meeting attended by the state’s Commissioner and Secretary (Sports & Youth Affairs), with department officials joining virtually. The Union Minister expressed satisfaction with the current status.
On participation from other Northeastern states, Shylla clarified that while the Ministry had sought their inclusion, hosting rights remain with Meghalaya. The state has agreed to let each Northeastern state host one event (except Manipur, allotted two due to its strong sporting tradition). Assam has not yet proposed any event.
Regarding participation rights, concerns from other states were addressed. It was agreed — with the Union Sports Minister’s approval — that both the host (Meghalaya) and co-hosting states may participate in the events they host.
