Shillong, May 8: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma confirmed the state government’s vision to transform Shillong into “India’s Football Capital” during the launch of the Shillong Sports Association’s 2026 football season on Thursday.
While inaugurating the new season at the Shillong Sports Association Ground, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and creating opportunities for young footballers across Meghalaya. “Our goal is clear; we want Meghalaya, especially Shillong, to become the football capital of India,” he stated.
Sangma highlighted the special place football holds in the lives of the people of Meghalaya. He stressed the importance of continuous investment in players, coaches, tournaments, and leagues for the long-term development of the sport.
“We need to invest in our players, coaches, tournaments, and leagues. Whether at the city level, district level, or ultimately at the block level, we must provide opportunities for young boys and girls to compete, excel, and dream of representing Meghalaya,” he added.
Emphasizing grassroots promotion of football, the Chief Minister noted that the true revival of the sport would occur only when opportunities reach the most remote villages of the state.
He further mentioned that enthusiasm for football would grow when young players from every village eagerly await league matches, believing they can also reach the highest levels of the sport.
To support the successful organization of the Shillong Sports Association’s 2026 football season, the Chief Minister announced a financial aid of 3.2 million rupees from the Chief Minister’s Special Grant. He reminded that the government had previously provided 2.8 million rupees to the association, which was increased to 3 million rupees in the last season.
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