Shillong: With preparations in full swing for the 39th National Games in 2027, the Government of Meghalaya on Tuesday organised a special event titled “Grants-in-Aid for Team Preparation” at the State Convention Centre, Shillong. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs (DSYA) to bolster the state’s sporting ecosystem through targeted schemes and support mechanisms aimed at motivating and empowering athletes.
Reaffirming the government’s vision to transform the sports ecosystem in Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said, “Looking back at this journey, which has been filled with a lot of excitement and challenges, we have seen incredible momentum in the sports sector. Whether it is the associations, officials, political leaders, or the sportspersons – everyone is contributing. I can clearly see a huge difference in how sports is growing in our state.”
He highlighted key infrastructure initiatives worth ₹1,900 crore, including the construction of nearly 50 artificial turfs across Meghalaya — the highest number in any state — and the development of synthetic track and field facilities, the largest in the Eastern region. “These are real investments we are making in the future of our youth,” he added.
Speaking about Meghalaya’s role as host of the 39th National Games, the Chief Minister described it as a historic moment — the largest event ever to be held in the state. He emphasised the need to put in all efforts to make the Games a national benchmark in excellence. He also shared plans to work closely with the Tourism Department to promote homestays and boutique hotels for hosting athletes, thereby fostering local entrepreneurship and boosting tourism infrastructure. “This program is meant to promote and support our sportspersons and associations,” he said.
Stating that Meghalaya is going to host the National Games for the first time, he pushed for the athletes to target winning at least 50 medals in the 39th National Games.
As part of the Team Meghalaya initiative, a total grant of ₹39,17,64,000 was sanctioned to 26 state sports associations and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) to support structured training and preparation. He stated, “For the first time in the country’s history, a state government is directly providing grants-in-aid funds to Shillong Sports Associations.” Notably, the State Government has provided over ₹15 crore in grants to SSA since 2018.
He further proposed making the National Games a “green event,” with initiatives such as using biodegradable bags and starch-based bottles, in collaboration with local entrepreneurs.
Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, Shakliar Warjri, reiterated the government’s commitment to building robust infrastructure and creating support systems for athletes. He said, “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.”
Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang, addressing the gathering, encouraged sports associations by saying, “This is truly a golden period for all organisations. I wish the National Games 2027 great success and believe that by working together, we can bring glory to the state.”
Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, DSYA, recalled Meghalaya’s selection as host during the closing ceremony of the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand. “It was a proud moment for all of us when Meghalaya was chosen. Many states vied for the honour, but through the tireless efforts of the Chief Minister and the Sports Minister, it is coming to us.”
He described the hosting of the Games as a significant achievement and outlined three critical components — infrastructure, team preparation, and empowerment of associations. He stated that while the government has invested heavily in infrastructure, it is also enabling autonomy for sports associations to make decisions for effective athlete preparation. “We will continue to support the associations with flexibility and trust, to ensure optimal preparation for the Games,” he added.
The event also saw the felicitation of 20-year-old Rifiness Warjri, who was awarded ₹5 lakh by the Chief Minister and ₹1 lakh by the DSYA in recognition of her extraordinary achievement of summiting Mount Everest.
In a light-hearted interaction, the Chief Minister asked her if she ever thought of giving up. She responded, “Conquering Mt. Everest is not easy. I experienced acute mountain sickness while climbing Lobuche Peak, but reaching its summit gave me the determination to aim for Everest.”
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