Correspondent
DAMAS, MAY 18: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday announced that the state government has committed investments of more than Rs. 400 crore across 53 sports infrastructure projects in the Garo Hills region, ensuring equitable development across districts, blocks, and localities.
Speaking after laying the foundation stone for a new mini stadium in North Garo Hills district, sanctioned at a cost of Rs. 3.44 crore under the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Sangma said the government is working towards a long-term vision of building 510 sports infrastructure projects by 2028. The initiative aims to nurture athletes capable of representing India at the 2032 Olympics.
The mini stadium project will transform the existing ground into a modern venue with a covered gallery, open seating areas, and upgraded playground facilities. Highlighting regional investments, Sangma noted that nine projects worth Rs. 3.81 crore have been taken up in North Garo Hills since 2018, including stadiums, basketball courts, and indoor facilities. He further announced an additional Rs. 5 crore for the Resubelpara Stadium, raising its total project cost to Rs. 8.50 crore.
Citing examples of emerging talent, the Chief Minister mentioned Henry A. Sangma, who won a bronze medal at the North East Olympic Games, and Cherim Ch Sangma, who advanced from the state’s STAR Programme to the Advanced Athletics Programme. He stressed that while Meghalaya’s youth possess natural sporting talent, they often lack access to proper training and infrastructure.
Reaffirming the government’s youth-centric policy, Sangma highlighted initiatives such as scholarships for sportspersons, jobs for medal winners, and support to sports associations.
He urged parents to encourage children in pursuing sports careers and called on North Garo Hills to prepare for the upcoming National Games, stating: “The infrastructure is being constructed, the funding is fully deployed, and the framework has been built for you. Now it is your turn to step onto this field and claim your place on the global stage.”