SHILLONG, June 24 : With the 39th National Games in 2027 on the horizon, the Government of Meghalaya today marked a significant stride in its preparations, sanctioning a massive ₹39.17 crore in grants-in-aid to 26 state sports associations and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA). The “Grants-in-Aid for Team Preparation” event, held at the State Convention Centre, underscores the state’s commitment to empowering its athletes and transforming its sporting landscape.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, addressing the gathering, emphasized the unprecedented momentum in Meghalaya’s sports sector. “Looking back at this journey, which has been filled with a lot of excitement and challenges, we have seen incredible momentum,” he stated, acknowledging contributions from associations, officials, political leaders, and sportspersons alike.
Sangma highlighted substantial infrastructure investments totaling ₹1,900 crore. These include the development of nearly 50 artificial turfs across the state – the highest number in any Indian state – and the creation of the largest synthetic track and field facilities in the Eastern region. “These are real investments we are making in the future of our youth,” he asserted.
Describing the upcoming 39th National Games as a historic moment for Meghalaya, the Chief Minister stressed the need to make it a national benchmark for excellence. He also revealed plans to collaborate with the Tourism Department to promote homestays and boutique hotels for accommodating athletes, aiming to boost local entrepreneurship and tourism infrastructure.
In a bold call to action, Sangma urged Meghalaya’s athletes to target winning at least 50 medals in the 39th National Games, a first for the state as host. He proudly announced that Meghalaya is the first state in the country’s history to directly provide grants-in-aid funds to its sports associations, noting that over ₹15 crore has been provided to the Shillong Sports Associations since 2018.
Further demonstrating a forward-thinking approach, Sangma proposed making the National Games a “green event,” incorporating initiatives like the use of biodegradable bags and starch-based bottles, in partnership with local entrepreneurs.
Shakliar Warjri, Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to building robust infrastructure and creating comprehensive support systems for athletes. “We believe in the associations of our state, and through this effort, we hope to achieve our goals. Our aim is to see the athletes and youth of Meghalaya win medals—not just at the state level, but also at the national and even international level,” he affirmed.
Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang, IAS, encouraged sports associations, declaring it a “golden period for all organisations” and expressing his confidence that collaborative efforts would bring glory to the state in the 2027 Games.
Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, DSYA, recalled the proud moment when Meghalaya was chosen as the host during the closing ceremony of the 38th National Games. He outlined three critical components for successful hosting: infrastructure, team preparation, and the empowerment of associations. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting associations with flexibility and trust to ensure optimal athlete preparation.
The event also celebrated the remarkable achievement of 20-year-old Rifiness Warjri, who was felicitated by the Chief Minister with ₹5 lakh and by the DSYA with ₹1 lakh for successfully summiting Mount Everest. In a light-hearted interaction, when asked if she ever considered giving up, Warjri shared her challenging journey, stating that conquering Lobuche Peak instilled in her the determination to aim for Everest. Her story served as an inspiration to the aspiring athletes present.
List of State Sports Associations that received Grants-in-Aid for Team Preparation:
- Archery Association of Meghalaya
- Arm Wrestling Association of Meghalaya
- Meghalaya Athletics Association
- Meghalaya Swimming Association
- Meghalaya Canoe Association
- Meghalaya State Badminton Association
- Meghalaya Basketball Association
- Meghalaya Boxing Association
- Meghalaya Cycling Association
- Meghalaya Football Association
- Meghalaya Gymnastics Association
- Meghalaya Judo Association
- All Meghalaya Karate-Do Association
- Meghalaya Kho Kho Association
- Meghalaya Lawn Bowling Association
- Meghalaya Muaythai Association
- Meghalaya Rowing and Watersports Association
- Shooting Association of Meghalaya
- Meghalaya Table-Tennis Association
- Meghalaya Taekwondo Association
- Meghalaya Tennis Association
- Meghalaya State Volleyball Association
- Meghalaya Weightlifting Association
- Wrestling Association of Meghalaya
- Meghalaya Wushu Association
- Meghalaya Yogasana Sports Association
