Govt employees to be given special leave to focus on training

Shillong, Feb 26: As Meghalaya prepares to host the 39th National Games, the state government is committed to investing more in sports at the grassroots level so as to boost its medal tally.

At the 38th National Games held in Uttarakhand, Meghalaya secured five medals, all in canoeing.

Speaking at a felicitation program for the medal winners on Wednesday, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma highlighted the government’s commitment to both infrastructure development and athlete support. While significant investments are being made in sports venues, he emphasised that grassroots-level support is equally important to prepare athletes for the upcoming National Games.

“One of the key areas we have identified is the need for professional coaches across various disciplines. To address this, we will support different sports associations in launching specialized training programs for our top 200-300 athletes who will represent Meghalaya in the 39th National Games,” the Chief Minister said.

Beyond grassroots initiatives, the government is also focusing on supporting athletes employed in the police force and other state departments. Plans are in place to provide them with special training leave of six months to a year, allowing them to focus entirely on their preparation.

On infrastructure, the Chief Minister noted that Meghalaya has less than 24 months to prepare for the National Games, which require extensive logistical and infrastructural efforts. He urged the people of Meghalaya to contribute to ensuring the event’s success.

To enhance connectivity, he announced that by 2026, more commercial flights will operate at Shillong’s Umroi Airport, facilitating better travel for athletes and officials. Additionally, alongside infrastructure development, the government is formulating a strategic plan to improve the state’s overall medal performance.

“I am very happy to see that the foundations we have laid in sports and the overall sports ecosystem in Meghalaya are now showing results. Whether in sports, music, or entrepreneurship, our various programs are not just government initiatives but long-term investments in our youth,” he added.

Addressing the Meghalaya Outstanding Sportspersons Direct Appointment Policy, which was approved by the state cabinet earlier in the day, the Chief Minister announced that medal winners at the National, South Asian, and Olympic Games will be provided direct government jobs.

“This policy will be implemented in letter and spirit, serving as a major motivation for athletes and sportspersons in our state to excel,” he stated.

Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister said, “While we are here today to celebrate the success of the 38th National Games, we must also plan and prepare for the 39th National Games. I thank the Honorable Prime Minister, the Home Minister, and the President of the Indian Olympic Association for their support, as well as our dedicated team, for making it possible for Meghalaya to host the National Games in 2027.”

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