Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma held a virtual meeting with Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha on Wednesday to review the state’s readiness to host the 39th National Games in 2027.
The meeting included officials from the Meghalaya Olympic Association (MOA) and senior stakeholders, focusing on the progress made in sports infrastructure and event preparedness.
During the discussion, Chief Minister Sangma highlighted the advancements achieved in developing world-class sports facilities across the state.
Major projects include the upgraded JN Sports Complex in Shillong, the Wahijher Stadium in Jaintia Hills, and the P.A. Sangma Integrated Sports Complex in Tura. These facilities, along with other sports-centric initiatives, have been instrumental in fostering athletic talent and promoting diverse sports disciplines.
Sangma underscored Meghalaya’s successful history of hosting major events, such as the North East Games in 2022, the South Asian Games in 2016, and the Meghalaya Games, held consistently over the past three years. He emphasized that these accomplishments reflect the state’s ability to organize large-scale sporting events effectively.
Dr. D. Vijay Kumar, Commissioner of Sports and Youth Affairs, provided additional insights, mentioning the state’s agreement with the IOA, signed in 2018, which designates Shillong as the primary host city for the National Games. Complementary events are planned for Tura and Jowai, ensuring a broader participation of the state’s cities in hosting various disciplines.
IOA President P.T. Usha expressed optimism about Meghalaya’s preparedness and commitment to fostering a robust sporting culture. She acknowledged the state’s proactive efforts to enhance infrastructure and create opportunities for athletes. While formal confirmation of Meghalaya as the host is pending, Usha assured that the IOA is positively considering the state’s proposal.
The 2027 National Games represent a significant opportunity for Meghalaya to solidify its position as a sporting hub in the Northeast. This aligns with the state’s vision of promoting sports and nurturing athletic talent.
The National Games for 2023 are currently being hosted by Uttarakhand, with India set to host the Asian Games in 2026, resulting in the next edition of the National Games being scheduled for 2027. An official announcement regarding Meghalaya’s confirmation as host is expected soon, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s sporting ambitions.
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