. Ri-Bhoi and West Jaintia Hills secured the second and third positions with 79 and 68 medals respectively. ){kind=link}
TURA:
The 5th edition of the Meghalaya Games concluded at the P.A. Sangma Stadium in Tura with a Closing Ceremony that showcased sportsmanship and cultural richness. The week-long event gathered over 3000 athletes participating in 23 sports. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma was the Chief Guest, joined by dignitaries including Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Shaklair Warjri and Health & Family Welfare Minister M Ampareen Lyngdoh.
Champion of Champions, East Khasi Hills, led the medal tally with 132 gold, 105 silver, and 122 bronze (359 medals). Ri-Bhoi and West Jaintia Hills secured the second and third positions with 79 and 68 medals respectively.
The 5th Meghalaya Games set several milestones, including the highest athlete participation, the first-time inauguration by the President of India, and the highest number of disciplines with 20 sporting events and 3 demonstration sports. The event also saw the involvement of former Olympic medal winner Robert Kabbas as an official.
Football took centre stage, with thrilling matches in the U-18 categories. The ceremony commenced with a demonstration of Lawn Bowling, featuring the Meghalaya Games mascot, Labasa, the Clouded Leopard. Cultural diversity was highlighted with a welcome song by the Garo Troupe from Do.Kakku Art & Cultural Association.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma expressed gratitude to the people of Tura for hosting the event and emphasised the significance of the Games in uncovering new talent and contributing to a stronger sporting ecosystem. He reiterated the government’s commitment to sports development and preparing for the National Games.
Sports Minister Shaklair Warjri commended athletes and outlined plans for sports infrastructure development across the state. The ceremony featured unique athlete stories, showcasing passion, dedication, and historic achievements.
Chief Secretary Donald Phillips Wahlang observed that sports instil resilience and competitiveness, making athletes better individuals. He envisioned Meghalaya as ready to host the National Games.
The Closing Ceremony included speeches by officials, a parade of athletes, cultural performances, and a display of fireworks, marking the end of a memorable 5th Meghalaya Games that left a lasting impact on participants and spectators alike.