Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday inaugurated a newly built artificial football turf at the Madan Centre Playground in Nongkrem, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting youth engagement under the Khelo India scheme.
Highlighting the state’s rapid progress in sports development, Sangma said that over 70 per cent of Meghalaya’s sports facilities have been built in the last seven years, reflecting the government’s focus on youth empowerment through athletics and recreation. He added that the administration is now promoting block-level sports leagues to increase grassroots participation and discover new talent across rural areas.
Calling sports a “powerful tool for transformation,” the Chief Minister urged community leaders and parents to collaborate in addressing growing social challenges such as substance abuse, joblessness, and social media addiction. He stressed that regular participation in sports builds discipline, teamwork, and leadership among young people.
Later in the day, Sangma attended the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Nongkrem Government Upper Primary School, which marked 75 years of educational service to the community. Responding to the school’s appeal, he announced financial assistance from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund for establishing a computer lab and smart classroom, along with the provision of musical instruments to support creative education.