Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha today confirmed in a letter to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma that Meghalaya’s proposal to host the 39th National Games in 2027 has been accepted, with the mega event scheduled for February-March of that year.
The Chief Minister, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Shakliar Warjri and others will receive the National Games flag as next hosts at the closing ceremony of the 38th edition on Friday in Uttarakhand.
On Sunday, Warjri had pre-empted today’s announcement by informing that the state government’s timetable had been accepted by the IOA and central government.
In a release from the department today, the CM was quoted as saying, “The National Games are a symbol of the nation’s drive to pursue excellence in sports. It creates role models and stories of perseverance that inspire. It is an honour for Meghalaya to host the event and have our youth take in the excitement of the Games!”
Warjri was also quoted, saying, “Meghalaya has seen significant developments in its sports ecosystem in recent times and is ready to be considered amongst the sporting powerhouses of the nation. We look forward to welcoming athletes and fans alike to Meghalaya to experience all the state has to offer!”
Meghalaya, then under the Chief Ministership of Dr Mukul Sangma, had signed an agreement with the IOA in 2018 to host the National Games, with the original target of 2022. However, the Covid-19 pandemic and the delay in other states to hold the Games according to their turn meant that the date for Meghalaya was pushed back.
In collaboration with the Meghalaya State Olympic Association, the state government has identified nearly 40 sports for consideration for 2027.
The release also stated that Shillong (JN Sports Complex), Tura (PA Sangma Sports Complex) and Jowai (Wahiajer Multipurpose Sports Complex), the three major urban areas of Meghalaya, will be host venues and that nearly 12,000 athletes are expected to participate. Other new sports infrastructure in Mawdiangdiang and the “Integrated Hospitality and Sports Complex” (i.e. the new indoor facility being built behind the JN Stadium) will also be ready for use, the release said.
