Shillong, Mar 19: The state government has urged the Centre to finalise the proposed sports centre for divyang sportspersons (PwDs) in Shillong, especially keeping in view the National Games being hosted by Meghalaya in 2027.
In a letter addressed to union minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr Virendra Kumar, chief minister Conrad K Sangma requested his intervention in allocating the sports facility for PwDs in Meghalaya.
“I assure you the full support and cooperation of the state government in the timely completion of this essential sporting project,” Sangma said.
The state government has already communicated with department of Persons with Disabilities about allotment of 40 acres of land at Mawkhanu, Mawpdang, New Shillong Township (NST) for the purpose.
Meanwhile, the chief minister hailed the setting up of five such Disability Sports Centres in the country.
“I am sure this initiative will go a long way in tapping the potential of the abilities of PwDs once they are set up,” he said.
Terming the proposed Disability Sports Centre in Shillong “a matter of great pride”, he said, “This centre would cater to the North Eastern region in general and Meghalaya in particular where such sporting facilities are critically required.”
Referring to the 2027 National Games in to be held in Meghalaya, the CM said, “Such a sports centre for PwDs would be an immense contribution towards providing the requisite infrastructure required for the National Games.”
He also expressed gratitude for deploying a team of Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry on 13 February 2025 for the purpose.
“Their visit reinforced our commitment to this project… we are fully committed… the state government will bear the cost of land levelling, site development and provision of all necessary amenities for the Disability Sports Centre,” he said.
