Shillong, Oct 12: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday laid foundation for Rongjeng Stadium in East Garo Hills in presence of Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri and MLAs Jim Sangma and Rupert Momin.
The Stadium is being constructed at an estimated cost of ₹ 9.25 cr, which include development of football ground and construction of spectators gallery.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma reminded the gathering on the vision of (L) PA Sangma, who had close affinity for Rongjeng and it’s people.
The Chief Minister said that creation of Rongjeng Sub Division and other infrastructure which are coming up in the region, is a testament of the vision of (L) PA Sangma for Rongjeng.
Talking about developing sports infrastructure, he said that in last five years from 2018, the Government has spend ₹400 cr plus, compared to the past 45 years. He announced that in the next five years, close to ₹1000 cr will be spend to create sports infrastructure across the State.
“Since the inception of the State till 2018, not much was spend to develop and promote sports, but MDA Government has realised the potential of sports and we have come up with programmes to promote sports in the State”, he said.
He informed that Government has envisioned to upgrade 25 football playground in the State with artificial turf. He said that different sports are being given thrust to further develop, so that the youth can take maximum advantage of the ongoing sports programmes.
He also informed that Meghalaya Games 2023 will be hosted in Tura this year, which will be attended by over 3000 athletes from across the State. “Our sole focus is to create better infrastructure and ensure that our youth are given the platform to unleash their talents”, he stressed.
He also took the opportunity to enlighten the people about CM Elevate programme that aims to support entrepreneurs to setup different business ventures. He urged the people to take advantage of the CM Elevate programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri said that Government is committed to promote sports in the Meghalaya.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, we have been working to provide better sports infrastructure in the State. We want to make Meghalaya as a sport capital”.
The final match of the MLA Cup was also held today between United Shallang FC and Balbarian Sports Club Rongjeng.
