Shillong, May 1: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday handed over scholarships under the Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarship Scheme to 44 athletes across 10 disciplines at a send-off ceremony for Team Meghalaya.

The team will be participating at Khelo India Games 2025 to be held in Bihar from May 4 to 15, 2025.

The scheme aims to support and nurture sporting talents in the state. In the last six years, the government has made investment in sports infrastructure, policy interventions to promote the sporting ecosystem. The new scheme will further facilitate athletes for national excellence and also lay groundwork for the state to host National Games in 2027.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said, “These scholarships recognize the hard work and dedication of our athletes, encouraging them to strive for greater achievements and bring pride to Meghalaya and the nation.”

Reminding the gathering of the scenario, when MDA government took over the reins in 2018, he stated that the state’s sporting scenario was marred by a lack of policy, inadequate infrastructure, and minimal financial support.

“…the government took bold steps, including the revival of the Meghalaya Games – held only twice in 48 years until 2019. The games are now being conducted on a rotational basis across districts, fostering inclusive participation and discovering grassroots talent,” the chief minister said.

He also said that the government has embarked on a mission mode to build and upgrade sports infrastructure in urban and rural areas, with dedicated efforts to develop training facilities, stadiums, and community-level sports hubs.

Mentioning that the Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarship Scheme is aimed at acknowledging outstanding sporting talent and easing the financial burden on athletes, he acknowledged that the financial support is not large but even modest support can make a big difference when used wisely. “It’s a message to every athlete that your hard work matters, and we stand with you,” he stressed.

He also took the opportunity to inform the gathering on the preparation which is underway for hosting the National Games in 2027. “Meghalaya is working rigorously to ensure a world-class event. The state has committed to a comprehensive timeline for urban renewal, beautification, and environmental clean-up. Key initiatives include the rejuvenation of Wah Umkhrah and Umshyrpi Rivers, symbolic of the broader effort to beautify the cities of Shillong, Tura, and Jowai, which are expected to play central roles during the Games”, he said.

“This is not just about sports. It is about showcasing the spirit, talent, and beauty of Meghalaya to the rest of the country and the world,” he added.

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