Meghalaya Seeks ₹100 Crore Central Aid for 39th National Games 2027 Preparations

Shillong: The Meghalaya government has formally requested ₹100 crore in financial assistance from the Central government to bolster preparations for hosting the 39th National Games in 2027.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma urged the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to provide support for developing competition venues, handling logistics, and coordinating with participating states, given the event's massive scale and national importance.

Sangma described the Games as a transformative milestone for the state, emphasising that hosting one of India's premier multi-sport events would fast-track infrastructure development and significantly boost Meghalaya's overall sporting landscape.

The state has already invested nearly ₹1,000 crore since signing the hosting agreement, leading to the establishment of over 200 sports facilities at various levels. An additional ₹1,900 crore has been allocated for sports infrastructure over the next three years. By 2028, Meghalaya anticipates having more than 500 sports facilities spread across its blocks and districts.

Key upcoming projects include the country's largest football stadium, the nation's first natural slalom course for river sports, state-of-the-art aquatics facilities, and advanced gymnastics complexes—all aimed at building a robust and sustainable sporting ecosystem.

In line with the national vision outlined during the 38th National Games, Sangma proposed that select events could be co-hosted with other Northeastern states to foster regional development and collaboration.

The total estimated cost for organising the Games—including accommodation, transportation, catering, event management, promotion, and venue readiness—stands at approximately ₹400 crore, highlighting the critical need for central funding support.

As part of broader readiness efforts, the state has sanctioned ₹45 crore for repairing and resurfacing major roads in Shillong, covering nearly 40-46 kilometres of damaged stretches. Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar noted that similar upgrades are planned for other areas by late 2026. The initiative also includes repainting road markings and barriers, along with urban beautification drives to enhance the city's appeal ahead of the event.

In a significant decision, the government has scrapped plans to build a dedicated Games Village, citing ample existing accommodation options. Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla confirmed that sufficient hotels and homestays are available to house participants.

Shylla stated that preparations are advancing smoothly. A recent high-level review meeting, chaired at the request of Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, provided comprehensive updates on infrastructure, lodging, and logistics.

Recent inspections of key venues—including the JN Complex Stadium (with an ongoing indoor hall construction) in Shillong, the New Shillong aquatic stadium and swimming pool project, and facilities in Garo Hills such as the PA Stadium, adjacent indoor hall, and related hostels—confirmed steady progress. Venues are slated for phased completion: some by March, others by June, and the rest by October–November.

The Union Sports Minister recently reviewed the developments in a meeting with the state's Commissioner and Secretary (Sports & Youth Affairs), with officials participating virtually, and expressed satisfaction with the current pace.

On regional involvement, while the Ministry encouraged participation from other Northeastern states, hosting rights remain with Meghalaya. The state has agreed to allocate one event to each Northeastern state (with Manipur receiving two, recognising its strong sporting heritage). Assam has yet to propose an event.

To address participation concerns, it was decided—with Union Sports Minister approval—that both Meghalaya (as host) and co-hosting states may compete in the events they respectively host.

Also Read: RRAG Alleges Targeted Violence Against Hindu Minorities in Bangladesh, Claims 17 Killings Since December 2025