Shillong: Meghalaya is bracing for a massive influx of athletes as it prepares to host the 39th National Games next year. More than 10,000 competitors will arrive in the state to participate in 39 distinct sporting disciplines. Events are spread across Shillong, Tura, and Jowai to showcase the region. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma addressed the crowd at the 80th Independence Day celebration at Polo Ground in Shillong on Saturday. He emphasized that the Games mark a historic moment for the state as it turns 55.
The government aims to integrate local youth and communities into the event to highlight regional culture. The state is actively building a talent pool through the STAR Programme. Olympian coaches have already assessed 24,500 young athletes. Twelve of these prospects now sit on the Super Elite pathway and are actively shattering state records. Sangma pointed to Enriyan Momin as a prime example of this success. Discovered at an inter-school meet in Bajengdoba in 2022, Momin now trains in Shillong and competes in high-level long jump events. "Our talent is not confined to cities and towns. It is out there in our remotest villages, and we are reaching everywhere to find and nurture it," Sangma said.
Officials want sporting success to provide stable careers. The state introduced the Meghalaya Outstanding Sportspersons Direct Appointment Policy, 2025, to offer government jobs to top-tier athletes. Pynshngain Kurbah of Ri-Bhoi is the first to benefit. He secured a state position after winning a bronze medal in canoeing at the 38th National Games.
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