Raphael Warjri

Shillong- 12th Oct 2023: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday laid foundation for Rongjeng Stadium in East Garo Hills in presence of Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri and MLAs Jim Sangma  and Rupert Momin. The Stadium is being constructed at an estimated cost of ₹ 9.25 cr, which includes development of football ground and construction of spectators gallery. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma reminded the gathering of the vision of (L) PA Sangma, who had close affinity for Rongjeng and its people. The Chief Minister said that creation of Rongjeng Sub Division and other infrastructure which are coming up in the region, is a testament of the vision of (L) PA Sangma for Rongjeng. Talking about developing sports infrastructure, he said that in the last five years from 2018, the Government has spent ₹400 cr plus, compared to the past 45 years. He announced that in the next five years, close to ₹1000 cr will be spent to create sports infrastructure across the State. “Since the inception of the State till 2018, not much was spent to develop and promote sports, but the MDA Government has realised the potential of sports and we have come up with programmes to promote sports in the State”, he said. He informed that the Government has envisioned to upgrade 25 football playground in the State with artificial turf. He said that different sports are being given thrust to further develop, so that the youth can take maximum advantage of the ongoing sports programmes. He also informed that Meghalaya Games 2023 will be hosted in Tura this year, which will be attended by over 3000 athletes from across the State. “Our sole focus is to create better infrastructure and ensure that our youth are given the platform to unleash their talents”, he stressed. He also took the opportunity to enlighten the people about the CM Elevate programme that aims to support entrepreneurs to set up different business ventures. He urged the people to take advantage of the CM Elevate programme.

Speaking on the occasion, Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri said that Govt is committed to promote sports in Meghalaya. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, we have been working to provide better sports infrastructure in the State. We want to make Meghalaya as a sports capital”.