Shillong, Aug 29: Meghalaya on Saturday celebrated National Sports Day 2026 under the theme “Khelega Bharat, Jeetega Bharat” with a call to build a world-class sporting ecosystem.
The event was organized by the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs.
Addressing the gathering, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla said the state’s sports budget has been increased from Rs 40 crore in 2018 to over Rs 840 crore now.
He announced a steep hike in cash awards for National Games medallists — gold from Rs 7,500 to Rs 2 lakh, silver to Rs 1.5 lakh and bronze to Rs 1 lakh.
He also highlighted the Meghalaya Outstanding Sportsperson Direct Appointment Policy (MOSDAP), under which medallists at National Games, South Asian Games, Asian Games and Olympics will get direct government jobs without competitive exams. Pynshngain Kurbah, bronze medallist at the 38th National Games, was handed the first appointment letter under MOSDAP at the event.
The Minister listed upcoming initiatives — training stipends for the 39th National Games contingent, MHIS insurance cover for sportspersons, 125 grassroots football centres, assessment of 24,500 youths under STAR (Sports Talent Identification, Development and Realisation Program) and inauguration of a high-performance sports science centre at JN Sports Complex in September 2026.
“By giving you this award today, we are not saying that this is enough. We are saying that this is just the beginning,” Shylla said.
Mawlai Sports Club was felicitated as champions of the 4th Meghalaya State League and for qualifying for the 2nd stage play-off round of I-League 3 2025-26. Several other medal winners were also honoured.
Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed said sports instil resilience, teamwork and ability to overcome failure, essential for character building and steering youth away from negative influences. He urged athletes to strive for Olympic glory.
Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Alertson Nongbri said the state is transforming its sports ecosystem through infrastructure expansion and high-performance support as it gears up to host the 39th National Games in 2027.
MSOA General Secretary Finely L. Pariat and archer Devraj Mohapatra also spoke, lauding government support but stressing athlete dedication.
The programme featured a choir performance by ‘Kawei Ka Sur’.
