— Discussions Focus on Strengthening Sports Infrastructure, Grassroots Talent Development, Youth Participation, and Centre-State Coordination

Shillong, May 29 (H.S.): Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse on Friday chaired a comprehensive review meeting with the Meghalaya Government on sports and youth development programmes. The meeting featured extensive discussions on the state’s sports ecosystem, youth engagement initiatives, sports infrastructure projects, and athlete development schemes. Special emphasis was placed on increasing grassroots participation in sports and creating better opportunities for athletes.

The state government briefed the minister on various schemes being implemented to support sports clubs, associations, and athletes. Officials informed the meeting that nearly 900 athletes are currently receiving assistance under the State Sports Scholarship Scheme.

Discussions were also held on Meghalaya’s grassroots football initiatives under the Chief Minister’s Football Mission. Officials stated that, inspired by the South American football development model, the initiative currently operates 125 grassroots centres across the state and is benefiting nearly 10,000 players. The programme has also produced several international footballers from Meghalaya.

The meeting also reviewed the state’s sports infrastructure projects. Discussions were held on the progress of the Mawkhanu Football Stadium, which is being developed as one of the largest football stadiums in the region. The venue is also being considered as a potential site for the opening ceremony of the National Games.

In addition, the Umsawli Sports Complex and the slalom course project at Umtham were reviewed. Officials stated that the Umtham slalom course is emerging as one of the country’s leading facilities for water sports and slalom training.

Raksha Khadse stressed the need to strengthen grassroots sports infrastructure, enhance youth participation, and improve coordination between Central and State Government schemes. The meeting also reviewed the “Yes Meghalaya” initiative, under which assistance is being provided to clubs and organisations conducting youth programmes.

Discussions were also held on connecting young people to voluntary services through the MY Bharat portal and providing volunteer opportunities during major events such as the National Games.

The minister further emphasised the importance of strengthening Khelo India recognised academies and integrating the state’s sports infrastructure with athlete development systems to create improved pathways for emerging talent.

The meeting also discussed the Meghalaya Games and long-term athlete development plans. Raksha Khadse said that the Central Government would continue to work closely with the State Government to strengthen sports infrastructure, athlete support systems, and youth development programmes in Meghalaya and across the Northeast region.

She said Meghalaya possesses immense sporting talent and youthful energy, and that coordinated efforts by the Central Government, State Government, sports institutions, and community organisations would play a crucial role in building a strong sporting culture in the country.

The meeting was attended by Meghalaya Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Veladmiki Shylla and State Commissioner and Secretary Dr Vijay Kumar D.

Senior officials from the Meghalaya Government, the Sports Authority of India, the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, and various organisations associated with sports and youth development also participated in the meeting. Representatives including Meghalaya State Olympic Association Executive President John F Kharshiing, Senior Vice-President EMH Passah, Joint Secretary Pinbihang Lalu, and Treasurer Kasan Kupar Warjri were also present.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar