Shillong, January 30: The Meghalaya government has sought ₹100 crore in financial assistance from the Centre to support preparations for hosting the National Games 2027. In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma requested support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to develop competition venues, manage logistics, and coordinate with participating states, citing the scale and national importance of the event.
Describing the Games as a landmark opportunity, Sangma said hosting one of India’s largest multi-sport events would significantly accelerate infrastructure development and strengthen Meghalaya’s sporting ecosystem. He noted that the state has already invested nearly ₹1,000 crore since signing the hosting agreement, leading to the creation of more than 200 sports facilities across various levels. An additional ₹1,900 crore has been earmarked for sports development over the next three years.
“By 2028, Meghalaya is expected to have over 500 sports facilities across its blocks and districts,” the Chief Minister said, outlining major planned projects such as the country’s largest football stadium, the first natural slalom course for river sports, world-class aquatics infrastructure, and modern gymnastics complexes.
Aligned with the national vision announced during the 38th National Games, Sangma indicated that select events of the 2027 edition may be hosted in partnership with other Northeastern states to promote regional growth. He added that the total expenditure for organising the Games - covering accommodation, transportation, food, event management, promotion, and venue preparation - is estimated at around ₹400 crore, underscoring the need for central assistance.
As part of readiness measures, the state government has sanctioned ₹45 crore for repair and resurfacing of major roads in Shillong. Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said the project covers nearly 40 - 46 km of damaged roads across the city, with similar upgrades planned in other parts of the state by late 2026. Repainting of road markings and barriers will also be undertaken as part of a broader urban beautification drive.
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Meanwhile, the government has decided against constructing a dedicated Games Village, citing sufficient existing hotels and homestays. Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla said preparations are progressing satisfactorily, following a recent high-level review meeting convened at the request of Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong.
Shylla said inspections were conducted at key venues, including the JN Complex Stadium and New Shillong in Shillong, as well as facilities in Garo Hills. Infrastructure work is being completed in phases, with some venues ready by March, others by June, and the remaining by October–November.
The Union Sports Minister recently reviewed the progress and expressed satisfaction with the current status. On participation by other Northeastern states, Shylla clarified that while Meghalaya remains the primary host, each Northeastern state may host one event - except Manipur, which has been allotted two - while retaining the right to participate in the events they host, with the Union Ministry’s approval.
