Play sports not just for medals, but to build character, hard work and discipline : CM Conrad

Jowai, Jan 21: “Sports are not just about winning medals; they are about building character, teaching hard work, and fostering discipline,” said Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma in front of over 15000 plus athletes who gathered at the Wahiajer Multi Sports Complex Stadium, Jowai on Tuesday for the opening ceremony of the 6th Meghalaya Games 2025.

While delivering his speech, CM Conrad announced that the present government always puts the youth of the state as a priority, and organising such events will harness their talents and improve their abilities as individuals.

“Youths are an important part of our policy-making. All the schemes that we implement for this particular Meghalaya Games, as well as for the four games that happened during the tenure of this government, are demonstration of the commitment of this government to our youth,” said the chief minister.

As the athletes and a stadium of over 15000 audiences gathered and listened to the Chief Minister, he shared positive advice, stating that when one plays sports and faces defeats, one should accept defeat and work hard to improve their skills.

“Playing sports and participating in such games is about discipline, hard work, accepting defeat, learning from that defeat, and improving your skills… it’s about building character,” he added.

“We ensure that these games are held on a rotational basis because we believe that every region has its strengths,” the CM said

The rotation of the venues will not only benefit the athletes but also help development reach all parts of the state’s districts, he emphasised.

“It is about bringing our athletes to different parts of the state… We want to build unity among our people,” he said, emphasizing the importance for athletes to explore and interact with other athletes.

He stressed that rotating venues gives all districts the opportunity to host the Meghalaya Games.

“We believe that every region, every district, must be developed and given the opportunity to host games like these. With the hosting of this game, a lot of infrastructure development has taken place in the Jowai area and West Jaiñtia Hills as a whole,” he added.

He also reiterated the importance of athletes enjoying the sport, even though they need to play to win. “It is not only about winning; it’s about becoming a better person, participating, and enjoying these moments, as these memories will stay with you forever,” he underscored.

Apart from the Chief Minister the other key dignitaries present at the Opening Ceremony include Deputy CMs Prestone Tynsong, Sniawbhalang Dhar, Sport Minister Shakliar Warjri, other cabinet ministers AT Mondal, Ampareen Lyngdoh, Comingone Ymbon, Working President of Meghalaya State Olympics Association (MSOA) John F Kharshiing, Vice President of MSOA and Chairperson of the Reception Committee for the State Level event Matsiewdor War Nongbri, General Secretary of MSOA F Paiat, and Headman of Lumkyrwiang Lamat O Laloo. The glittering ceremony was also attended by Ambassador to India, Embassy of Uzbekistan Sardor Rustambaev.

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