Shillong, May 29: Central Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, held a review meeting on Friday with Meghalaya’s Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, Welhamiki Shylla, and Commissioner and Secretary, Dr. Vijay Kumar D. The meeting focused on assessing ongoing sports and youth development initiatives in the state and exploring ways to strengthen collaboration between the central and state governments.
Senior officials from the Meghalaya government, the Sports Authority of India, and the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, along with other stakeholders involved in sports and youth development, participated in the meeting. Discussions included the state’s sports ecosystem, initiatives to engage youth, infrastructure projects, and athlete development programs aimed at enhancing grassroots participation and fostering excellence in sports.
The state government presented various initiatives to support sports clubs, associations, and athletes. These include a grant-based support system for youth and sports-related activities, a targeted youth development plan, and scholarship programs for athletes. Currently, around 900 athletes are receiving support under the state’s sports scholarship scheme.
The meeting also addressed the Chief Minister‘s Football Mission, a significant grassroots football program inspired by the South American football model. Officials reported that 125 grassroots centers are operational in the state, training approximately 10,000 young players. This initiative has enabled several Meghalaya athletes to reach international levels.
Progress on new sports stadiums and complexes was also reviewed, particularly the Mawkhanu Football Stadium, regarded as one of the largest in the region. It is expected to host the opening ceremony of future National Games.
Additionally, updates were provided on the Umshawli Sports Complex and the slalom course being developed in Umtham, which officials believe could become an excellent center for water sports training in the country. Raksha Khadse emphasized the importance of strengthening the grassroots sports ecosystem, promoting youth participation, and ensuring better coordination between central and state initiatives for greater impact.
The meeting reviewed youth-focused initiatives in Meghalaya, including the Youth Engagement and Empowerment Scheme (YESS Meghalaya) aimed at supporting clubs and organizations conducting youth-related programs. The role of MY Bharat in enhancing youth participation and volunteer engagement was also discussed, particularly regarding volunteer opportunities for upcoming sports events, including the National Games, through the MY Bharat portal.
Representatives from the Meghalaya State Olympic Association participated in the discussions, including John F. Kharshing, Executive President of MSOA and President of the Meghalaya Shooting Association; EMH Passah, Senior Vice President of the Meghalaya Athletics Association; Pinbiang Lalu, President of the Meghalaya Badminton Association; and Kasan Kupar Warjri, General Secretary of the All Meghalaya Karate Association and MSOA Treasurer.
Raksha Khadse stressed the importance of integrating the athlete development system with the state’s sports infrastructure to strengthen Khelo India-accredited academies and create robust pathways for emerging athletes. He noted the significant potential for sports talent in Meghalaya, stating that both the central and state governments will continue to work together to provide better facilities for athletes and enhance the sports culture.
–
Leave a Comment