By Our Reporter
Shillong, March 20: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday interacted with Sanfida Nongrum, a senior member of the India women’s national football team, during a courtesy call at his official chamber following her historic international debut.
During the interaction, the Chief Minister enquired about Nongrum’s feelings after scoring on her debut in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026. In response, the footballer said she was “very happy” to have netted her first goal for the country.
Sangma said the entire state felt proud and delighted to witness her maiden strike for the national team.
He also assured continued support, stating that the government is keen to explore further avenues to assist and encourage sportspersons.
“I just want to know if there is anything more we can do to support you and help you grow. We would like to see sportspersons like you become an inspiration for others,” he said, adding that her journey and hard work should serve as a message to the youth.
In her message, Nongrum encouraged young people to pursue their passions and remain committed to their goals.
Reflecting on her own journey, she said her love for football inspired her to take up the sport professionally.
The footballer also expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the cash award of Rs 2 lakh announced earlier in recognition of her achievement.
Nongrum recently scripted history by becoming the first woman from Meghalaya to represent India at the senior international level. She marked the milestone by scoring on her debut in the continental tournament.
She found the net in the 52nd minute after coming on as a second-half substitute in India’s match against the Vietnam women’s national team at Perth Rectangular Stadium on March 4.
Her goal ended India’s 23-year wait for a strike in the tournament, with the previous one dating back to 2003. Despite the achievement, India suffered a narrow defeat in the match. “Although I am happy to score my first goal on my debut for India, I am disappointed that we lost in the final moments. We will learn from this and move forward to face Japan,” Nongrum had said.
As her journey continues to unfold, Nongrum’s rise stands as more than just a personal milestone—it reflects the growing promise of women’s football in Meghalaya and the wider Northeast.
From the training grounds back home to the international stage, her story is one of perseverance, quiet determination and belief against the odds.
While the result on the night may not have gone India’s way, the significance of her goal will endure, both as a breakthrough moment for the national team and as an inspiration for countless young footballers in the state.
With the right support, exposure and opportunities, Nongrum’s achievement could well mark the beginning of a new chapter—one where many more from Meghalaya dare to dream, step forward, and make their mark in Indian football.
