Shillong, Jan 23: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma is rallying support from Union Home Minister Amit Shah to secure the hosting rights for the National Games 2027. During a press briefing, Sangma expressed optimism, noting that Shah has promised full backing for the initiative. “We have pitched our intent to host the National Games in 2027, and during my meeting with the Home Minister, he responded positively,” Sangma stated.
Sangma highlighted the Northeast’s deserving chance to host, recalling that Assam last held the event in 2007 or 2008. He emphasized the need for support from Shah in influencing the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) when necessary. In recent discussions, Sangma also engaged with the IOA chairperson to advance Meghalaya’s bid.
The Chief Minister underscored the state’s commitment to sports infrastructure, revealing that the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government has invested over ₹1,000 crore since 2018. This investment marks a stark contrast to the less than ₹100 crore sanctioned before. The funding includes ₹2 crore annually for state sports associations, ₹50 crore for sports event hosting and legacy infrastructure, and ₹8 crore in cash incentives.
The government has also allocated ₹6 crore to support athletes and coaches through the Cash Awards Scheme and ₹2.5 crore via the Sports Scholarship Scheme. Under its tenure, Meghalaya has constructed over 300 sports facilities, hosted 10 national and international events since 2022, and generated over 2,500 jobs annually.
Looking ahead, Sangma announced an ambitious 40,000-capacity football stadium in Mawkhanu, with a budget exceeding ₹400 crore, set for completion by 2028. Additionally, the Mawdiangdiang Sports Complex, featuring an aquatics centre and lawn tennis complex, will be developed with a ₹150 crore budget. With over 24,500 participants engaged in talent identification programs, the government is focused on nurturing sports talent—a leap forward in state-funded initiatives.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/north-east/meghalaya-makes-pitch-for-national-games-2027-seeks-amit-shahs-support-1565676
Category : North East,Featured
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Publish Date: 2025-01-23 15:39:00
