From promoting sports science and modern training methodologies to establishing robust talent identification and grassroots development programmes, the Chief Minister has set a benchmark for other states.
– Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports
Shillong, May 30: A word-class high-altitude sports training centre will be built in Meghalaya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya announced here on Saturday.
“A state-of-the-art, world-class high-altitude training centre, worth Rs 150 crore will be established in Meghalaya very soon,” he said after a review meeting on the 39th National Games in Meghalaya next year.
To assess Meghalaya’s preparations for hosting the Games, the Union Minister held a review meeting in presence of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports Raksha Khadse, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha, Meghalaya Sports Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, and senior sports officials from North East and the Centre.
The National Games 2027 in Meghalaya will “set a new benchmark in the history of the event”, he said.
During the meeting, the Union Minister said the Games should serve “not only as a premier sporting event but also as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage, diversity, and unique identity of Meghalaya and the entire North Eastern region to the nation and the world.”
He underscored the importance of “world-class sporting infrastructure, seamless organisation, and broad public participation” to make the Games a landmark event.
“Sustainability and diversity are our message for the 39th National Games in Meghalaya in 2027,” Dr Mandaviya said.
He added that with increased competition among states to host the Games, “the National Games should focus on talent identification and scouting.”
He also called for using the event as “an opportunity for spreading awareness on Doping,” stating, “The athletes must be made aware about impact of Doping.”
The Minister directed that volunteers of MY Bharat “should be engaged during the National Games in Meghalaya.”
A detailed presentation was made on the status of sports infrastructure projects, venue readiness, and overall preparations for 2027, including timelines and key areas needing attention.
Dr Mandaviya, who is on a three-day visit to the North East, also inaugurated a state-of-the-art Multipurpose Integrated Sports Indoor Hall in Shillong.
Praising Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, Dr Mandaviya said, “The state has witnessed remarkable progress in the sports sector over the past eight years under his leadership. He has undertaken a comprehensive and visionary effort to strengthen the sports ecosystem in Meghalaya.”
“From promoting sports science and modern training methodologies to establishing robust talent identification and grassroots development programmes, the Chief Minister has set a benchmark for other states,” he said.
On the North East’s role, the Minister said, “When a state like Meghalaya steps forward to host the National Games, it is a matter of pride for the entire nation.
“The region has consistently produced exceptional sporting talent and hosting the Games will further strengthen sports development, inspire young athletes, and showcase the rich culture, hospitality, and potential of the North East to the rest of the country,” he added.
Expressing satisfaction over preparation in Meghalaya, he said, “I have reviewed the ongoing progress of the infrastructure and preparatory work being undertaken for the 39th National Games in Meghalaya, and I can say with confidence that the National Games 2027 will set a new benchmark in the history of the event.”
Highlighting the Centre’s focus on the region, Dr Mandaviya said, “The size or population of a state is no longer a determining factor in the allocation of sporting resources and opportunities. Today, the North East accounts for only about 4 per cent of India’s population, yet nearly 25 per cent of all Khelo India Centres in the country are located in this region.”
“This reflects the Government of India’s strong commitment to unlocking the immense sporting potential of the North East. While most districts across the country have one Khelo India Centre, several districts in the North East have been provided with two centres, ensuring greater access to training, coaching and grassroots sports development,” he said.
