Shillong, May 02, 2026: In a continued push towards empowering the youth and upgrading sports facilities across the State, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, on Saturday inaugurated the newly constructed Umlyngka Indoor Stadium and Football Ground. This stadium marks a new chapter for the athletes and sports enthusiasts of the region and beyond.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Minister stated that the government has been working tirelessly over the years to bring all-round development to different regions of the State. Reflecting on his frequent visits to Umlyngka, he expressed an understanding of the people’s aspirations and gratitude for their continued support.
The true value of this stadium, he explained, extends beyond its physical structure to its potential to build character, instil discipline, and foster sportsmanship among young athletes. He added, this initiative aligns with the government’s massive push for sports investment across the State, which includes nearly ₹25 crore dedicated to sports infrastructure within the Mylliem constituency alone.
Highlighting his vision for youth empowerment, he remarked, “Though we have spent more than 3.5 crores of money to build this indoor stadium and improvement of this playground, for me, I don’t see this as an expenditure. For me, it is an investment in the future of our youth. That investment in our youth is an investment in the future of our State.”
Further, acknowledging the local talent that performed at the event, he announced financial assistance to all the three groups from Chief Minister’s Special Grant.
Shri Ronnie V. Lyngdoh, MLA, Mylliem, expressed his gratitude to the government for the stadium, and for improving the existing football ground, as a means of providing the youth with quality sports infrastructure.
He also conveyed his gratitude to Chief Minister for his leadership under which the stadium and several other sports infrastructures have taken shape. He further thanked the Sports Department and former Sports Minister Shri Banteidor Lyngdoh for sanctioning ₹3.57 crore towards the same.
He encouraged the youth to view sports not merely as a recreational activity, but also as a promising career avenue that can provide sustainable livelihood opportunities once they equip themselves with the necessary skills and training.
Shri Hamletson Dohling, Adviser to Hon’ble Chief Minister, described the occasion as a historic moment for the people of Umlyngka, who waited many years to see the stadium become a reality. He added that from 2018 to 2023, not less than ₹25 crores have been spent in sports infrastructure within the Mylliem Constituency.
“I urge the youth to take full responsibility to utilize the football ground and the stadium meaningfully, as it will enable them to improve their skills and capacity which they possess,” he said. He encouraged the youth to actively participate in various sports disciplines while maintaining a balance with their studies, particularly in view of the upcoming National Games 2027.
The Umlyngka Indoor Stadium is designed to provide training and competition facility for people to exercise and engage in sports and other recreational activities, promoting physical activity and overall well-being. Beyond competitive sports, the facility will serve the local community, encouraging community and youth engagement.
This stands as a testament to how targeted investments and strategic planning have transformed select facilities within Meghalaya as recognised sports hubs, thereby promoting youth-led grassroots development.
