, the synthetic 8-lane athletic track reportedly meets international standards and can accommodate over 2,000 spectators.){kind=link}
TURA:
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated Tura’s first and only track and field athletics stadium at Dakopgre on January 12. The complex, named after Garo freedom fighter Pa Togan Nengminja, is a significant boost for athletics in Garo Hills.
Sanctioned in 2020-21 at a cost of Rs 16.02 Crore (Phase 1), the synthetic 8-lane athletic track reportedly meets international standards and can accommodate over 2,000 spectators.
CM Sangma expressed pride in the government’s efforts to enhance sports and youth engagement. He stated, “Meghalaya aims to become a leader in sports infrastructure density within the next 3 to 4 years, providing ample opportunities for our youth to excel in their chosen sports.”
Sangma highlighted Meghalaya’s success in various fields, including music, entrepreneurship, and sports through the PRIME programme. One such initiative, the STAR programme, scientifically identifying potential super athletes, has already identified 12 individuals out of 15000+ screened to compete at international standards.
Speaking directly to the athletes, Sangma encouraged them to consider the new stadium as a dedicated training ground to test their potential.
The chief minister also announced the initiation of the Meghalaya Games, an annual event set to rotate through different regions each year. He emphasised that nearly 50 per cent of the funds allocated for game-related infrastructure would be invested in institutes, colleges, and schools, benefiting the community post-event.