Shillong, February 5: The Meghalaya Cabinet has approved amendments to the Meghalaya Outstanding Sportsman Direct Appointment Policy, aimed at further benefiting sportspersons in the state, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced on Thursday.
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| Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma chairs a Cabinet meeting in Shillong, where key decisions on sports policy reforms were approved. |
In a post on social media, Sangma said the changes -finalised six to seven months ago - are minor in nature but are intended to strengthen support mechanisms for athletes. Alongside the amendments, the Cabinet has also approved the draft Meghalaya Outstanding Sportsmen Direct Appointment Service Rules.
Under the new rules, a special cadre will be created for medal-winning sportspersons in select prestigious tournaments, including the Olympics, National Games and South Asian Games. In total, six recognised tournaments have been identified for eligibility. The Chief Minister clarified that the cadre will be individual-specific and position-based, and will cease upon the retirement of the sportsperson, ensuring that promotions and service conditions of other departmental staff are not affected.
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The Cabinet also clarified the implementation of the 2 per cent reservation for sportspersons in government jobs. Going forward, the Sports Department will certify eligible candidates through an online application system, issuing certificates that allow sportspersons to apply under the reserved category. Sangma said this move formalises a process that was previously unclear and brings greater transparency and ease for applicants.
The decisions reflect the state government’s continued focus on encouraging sporting excellence and providing structured career opportunities for athletes who bring laurels to Meghalaya.
