Shillong, April 29: Meghalaya’s efforts to strengthen cricket infrastructure received a significant push as Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Indoor Cricket Academy at Kurkalang as part of a broader rollout of similar facilities across six northeastern states.
The inauguration was conducted from Sikkim, linking multiple locations in a coordinated launch that underscores a regional approach to sports development. The Kurkalang academy is expected to serve as a key training hub, with officials emphasising its role in nurturing grassroots talent and improving access to year-round cricket facilities in Meghalaya.
The ceremony was attended by Prem Singh Golay, Jay Shah of the International Cricket Council, and Devajit Saikia of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, reflecting the wider significance of the initiative for cricket development in the region.
Addressing the programme, Modi highlighted the need for faster execution of development policies in the Northeast. Referring to the Centre’s Act East policy, he said there is now a need to “Act Fast” to accelerate progress, including in the creation of sports infrastructure.
At Kurkalang, the event drew members of the Meghalaya Cricket Association, led by president James Sangma, along with district representatives, players and local residents, signalling growing interest in structured cricket development within the state.
On the sidelines, Sangma met members of the Bhoirymbong Dorbar Shnong, who expressed support for the facility and outlined expectations for its long-term impact on local youth. Assistant secretary Everest Nongshli said the academy should help identify and nurture talent while contributing to the overall growth of cricket in the state.
Sangma acknowledged past challenges in cricket development in Meghalaya, stating that the new facility should help address existing gaps. He described the Indoor Cricket Academy as a potential launch pad for building robust sporting infrastructure and advancing the game across the state.
