She urges students to channel their energy towards innovation, community service and constructive participation in the country’s development journey.
Shillong, June 20: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday inaugurated the crucial Jowai–Nartiang–Kdiap–Khanduli (JNKK) Road during a programme held at Wahiajer Football Stadium in West Jaintia Hills district.
The road was constructed with funding support from the New Development Bank at an estimated cost of over Rs 59 crore.
In her address, Sitharaman underscored the importance of quality infrastructure in accelerating development and ensuring that the benefits of growth reach every part of the country, including remote and border areas.
The finance minister also interacted with students of Kiang Nangbah Government College, Jowai, at the Wahiajer Football Stadium.
Established in 1967 and named after the revered freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah, the institution has played a significant role in expanding access to higher education and nurturing young talent in the Jaintia Hills region.
During the interaction, Sitharaman engaged in a candid discussion with students on a range of issues concerning youth, education, technology, career aspirations and nation-building.
Students shared their perspectives on higher education, employment opportunities, financial literacy, entrepreneurship and the role of young people in shaping India’s future.
The interaction also touched upon the opportunities created by rapid technological advancements and the importance of acquiring relevant skills in a changing global environment.
Responding to the students’ observations and questions, the finance minister encouraged them to remain curious, confident and committed to continuous learning.
She highlighted the importance of critical thinking, informed decision-making and responsible use of digital technologies.
Emphasising that today’s youth have unprecedented access to information and opportunities, she urged students to channel their energy towards innovation, community service and constructive participation in the country’s development journey.
Reflecting on the opportunities and challenges of the digital age, the finance minister observed that while information is now available instantly through mobile phones, the sheer volume of unfiltered content can often lead to confusion and distraction.
Stressing the importance of responsible use of technology, she advised young people to exercise self-restraint, think critically and seek guidance from parents, teachers, elders and friends before forming opinions or reacting to information.
Later, the finance minister interacted with school children and sportspersons at the Wahiajer Football Stadium.
Expressing satisfaction over the development of the stadium, Sitharaman said that it is a high-quality public asset that will benefit generations of young people aspiring to excel in sports and physical activities.
She noted that the facility has already begun attracting sporting events and community participation, demonstrating its value to the people of Meghalaya.
Encouraging optimum utilisation of the infrastructure, she said that such investments should serve as centres of community engagement, talent development and sporting excellence.
The Wahiajer Football Stadium has been constructed at a cost of over ₹65 crore with support from the Ministry of Finance’s Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) Scheme, under which States are provided 50-year interest-free loans for capital investment projects.
Spread across 16 acres in West Jaintia Hills district, the sports complex brings world-class sporting infrastructure to the region and is expected to encourage young athletes to pursue sports professionally, train more effectively and compete at national and international levels.
The stadium has been developed in accordance with international standards.
The football field serves as an infield within the athletics track, with both facilities meeting FIFA and World Athletics requirements.
Key features include a synthetic football turf, an eight-lane 400-metre World Athletics-certified synthetic track, a 100-metre straight athletics track, and spectator stands.
The facility also includes dedicated infrastructure for long jump, triple jump, pole vault, steeplechase, javelin throw, shot put and discus throw events.
With a seating capacity of over 6,000 spectators, the stadium is expected to emerge as a major sporting hub for Meghalaya and the wider North Eastern Region.
