Meghalaya sees major sports infrastructure push under Conrad Sangma
Shillong, May 30: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Saturday said the 39th National Games in Meghalaya in 2027 would “set a new benchmark” in the history of the event, while announcing a ₹150-crore world-class high-altitude training centre for the state.
Reviewing preparations for the National Games during a high-level meeting in Shillong, Mandaviya said that, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the Games should serve not only as a premier sporting event but also as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage, diversity and unique identity of Meghalaya and the Northeast to the nation and the world.
He stressed the need for world-class sporting infrastructure, seamless organisation and broad public participation to make the Games a landmark event in Indian sports.
The meeting was attended by Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse, Indian Olympic Association president P. T. Usha, Meghalaya sports minister Wailadmiki Shylla, officials from the eight Northeastern states and senior officials from the Union sports ministry.
During the meeting, the minister reviewed the progress of sports infrastructure projects, venue readiness and overall preparations for the 39th National Games, including timelines for completion and key areas requiring attention.
“Sustainability and diversity are our message for the 39th National Games in Meghalaya in 2027,” Mandaviya said, while emphasising the importance of talent scouting and anti-doping awareness during the Games. He also suggested engaging MY Bharat volunteers in the event.
The Union minister also inaugurated a Multipurpose Integrated Sports Indoor Hall in Shillong and said the facility would help nurture the next generation of athletes from Meghalaya and the wider Northeast.
Highlighting the growing importance of the Northeast in India’s sporting landscape, Mandaviya said Meghalaya hosting the National Games was a matter of pride for the entire country. He noted that the region has consistently produced exceptional sporting talent and that hosting the Games would further strengthen sports development while showcasing the Northeast’s culture, hospitality and potential.
He added that although the Northeast accounts for only around 4 per cent of India’s population, nearly 25 per cent of the country’s Khelo India Centres are located in the region, reflecting the Centre’s focus on sports development there.
Praising Sangma’s leadership, Mandaviya said Meghalaya had witnessed remarkable progress in the sports sector over the past eight years.
“He has undertaken a comprehensive and visionary effort to strengthen the sports ecosystem in Meghalaya. From promoting sports science and modern training methodologies to establishing robust talent identification and grassroots development programmes, the Chief Minister has set a benchmark for other states,” he said.
