Shillong, May 3: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on May 2 inaugurated a ₹3.57 crore indoor stadium along with an upgraded football ground at Umlyngka, adding a significant sports infrastructure facility in the Mylliem constituency. The project, developed by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, is aimed at supporting training and competitive sports while also functioning as a community space for recreational activities.
The initiative forms part of a wider state-level effort to expand and strengthen sports infrastructure across Meghalaya. Speaking at the inauguration, Sangma emphasised the government’s focus on ensuring development reaches all regions of the state. He described the project not as an expenditure but as an investment in the future of young people, stating that such initiatives would play a key role in shaping long-term development outcomes.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that nearly ₹25 crore has been allocated for sports-related infrastructure in the Mylliem constituency. He said facilities such as the newly inaugurated stadium are intended to instil discipline and nurture a stronger sporting culture among the youth.
Local representatives welcomed the development, noting that improved infrastructure would provide young people with better opportunities to pursue sports seriously. Ronnie V Lyngdoh acknowledged the role of the state government and the sports department in sanctioning funds for the project, adding that such facilities could also open up “sustainable livelihood opportunities” if supported with proper training and commitment.
Hamletson Dohling described the inauguration as a long-awaited milestone for residents of the area. He pointed out that more than ₹25 crore had already been spent on sports infrastructure in the constituency between 2018 and 2023, and urged young people to make effective use of the new facilities. He further stressed the importance of balancing sporting pursuits with academic commitments, particularly with the National Games 2027 in view.
During the event, the Chief Minister also announced financial assistance for three local groups that performed at the ceremony under the Chief Minister’s Special Grant.
Officials said the Umlyngka Indoor Stadium is expected to promote grassroots sports development and strengthen community engagement, aligning with the government’s broader strategy of creating sporting hubs through targeted infrastructure investment.
