Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday reaffirmed the Government’s vision for sports development, stating that the long-term vision would be to make Shillong the football capital of India.
“Our vision is clear—we want Meghalaya, and Shillong in particular, to become the football capital of India,” Sangma said after launching the 2026 football season of the Shillong Sports Association (SSA) at the SSA Ground.
He said that while investment in infrastructure remains important, equal emphasis must be placed on developing human capital in sports.
“We must invest in our players, our coaches, our tournaments, and our leagues. Whether at the city level, district level, or eventually even at the block level, we must create opportunities for young boys and girls to compete, grow, and dream of representing Meghalaya at the highest level,” the Chief Minister said.
Highlighting the Government’s commitment to grassroots football, he said the true revival of the sport would happen only when opportunities reach even the remotest villages of the state. “That is how excitement for football will grow—when young players in every village look forward to league matches and believe that they too can make it to the top.”
The event was also attended by the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Wailadmiki Shylla, as the Guest of Honour, former Sports Minister and SSA president Banteidor Lyngdoh, along with officials of the association, participating teams, players, and members of the football community.
During the programme, the Chief Minister officially declared the 2026 football season open and hoisted the SSA flag, marking the formal commencement of the league season.
Addressing players, officials, and football enthusiasts, he congratulated the Meghalaya Football Association and the Shillong Sports Association for their continued efforts in strengthening football culture in the state.
“Football holds a very special place in the hearts of our people, and the youth of Meghalaya have always shown immense passion for the game. For many years, we were not able to provide the kind of platform, support, and opportunities that football truly deserved. I am happy that in the last few years, through the collective efforts of the Government, sports administrators, and stakeholders, we have been able to make significant progress,” he said.
The Chief Minister also recalled the Government’s support to the SSA over the years.