Shillong, May 2: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Saturday inaugurated the upgraded playground and indoor sports stadium at Umlyngka in Upper Shillong, marking a major push to strengthen sports infrastructure and youth development in the area.
The inauguration was attended by R V Lyngdoh, MLA of Mylliem and Deputy Chief Whip, along with Hamletson Dohling, officials from the sports department, members of the dorbar shnong, and local residents.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the government has been focusing on balanced development across sectors and regions, emphasising that investments in youth and community infrastructure are key to long-term growth. “This is not an expenditure but an investment in our youth and the future of the state,” he said.
The project, developed at a cost of ₹3.5 crore, includes a fully equipped indoor sports hall with a badminton court, dressing rooms, toilets, and an official room. Sangma said such infrastructure would help nurture discipline, sportsmanship, and talent among young people.
He also highlighted the government’s broader efforts to build a supportive ecosystem for sportspersons and sports associations, alongside expanding infrastructure across the state.
The facility is expected to directly benefit around 3,000 youth from the locality, including students from Umlyngka Pre-Secondary School, San Shnong Secondary School, Phila Rapsang Secondary School, and Thomas Jones Secondary School.
Urging community participation, the Chief Minister called on residents to take shared responsibility for maintaining the facility and ensuring its long-term usability.
Officials said the project is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to promote grassroots sports and create better opportunities for youth across Meghalaya.
