Foundation stone laid for synthetic athletic track at Nongpoh
Shillong, Dec 11: In a significant boost to sports infrastructure and education in Ri-Bhoi district, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday launched the 2025–26 academic session of the newly established Pahamsyiem Eklavya Model Residential School and laid the foundation stone for a Synthetic Athletic Track at Chinchona, Nongpoh.
Undertaken by the State Sports Council of Meghalaya, the Synthetic Athletic Track project aims to improve sports infrastructure in the district and provide better training facilities for budding athletes.
In his address, the Chief Minister termed the students as the “true chief guests” of the programme.
“Nearly 2,000 students applied, and only a select few were chosen. I urge all of you to value this opportunity,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Centre for supporting the project.
Reiterating his government’s focus on inclusive development, the Chief Minister said the new synthetic track reflects the administration’s commitment to providing equal opportunities across regions and communities.
“Development is for all. We must move beyond divisive factors and appreciate the progress being made across the state,” he said.
Highlighting Meghalaya’s economic progress, he added, “Meghalaya is currently the second fastest-growing economy in India, with real GDP growing at 10% annually over the last three years.”
Addressing students’ concerns, Sangma assured that musical instruments and gardening tools requested by them would be provided.
In his address, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui reaffirmed the government’s emphasis on quality education, urging faculty members to nurture students to excel in academics and life.
Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, Community & Rural Development Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, and MLA Mayral Born Syiem also attended the occasion.
During the programme, the Chief Minister also flagged off four vehicles under the Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY), implemented by the DRDA under MSRLS to enhance rural transport connectivity and support livelihood initiatives of self-help groups.
