Everest heroine honoured as Meghalaya targets 50 medals with Rs 39 Cr game plan for National Games

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 24, 2025

In a landmark move to revolutionise the state’s sports landscape, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday handed over Rs 39.17 crore in grants-in-aid to Team Meghalaya—which includes the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA) and 26 sports associations—to kickstart preparations for the 39th National Games 2027.

The event also celebrated the achievement of Rifiness Warjri, the youngest woman from the state to summit Mount Everest at age 20. She was presented with a Rs 1 lakh assistance from the Sports Department and an additional Rs 5 lakh special grant from the Chief Minister’s Fund.

This amount has been given as a grant-in-aid specifically for preparing athletes for the 39th National Games 2027, which will be hosted in Meghalaya.

“The main purpose of the event was to begin the preparation process by giving sports associations the necessary financial support. What makes this initiative truly unique is that, for the first time in the country, the funds are being given directly to the associations. This move gives them full freedom to decide how best to use the money based on their individual needs. Whether it is for hiring coaches, purchasing equipment, holding training camps, or talent search programs, the associations have the liberty to plan and execute their own strategies”, the chief minister said. 

The chief minister said that this initiative is not just about funding, but also about trust. He highlighted the government’s decision to hand over responsibility directly to the associations, believing that they know best what is required. 

He also posed a target to the association to aim to win at least 50 medals in the National Games 2027.  

“…early preparation and investment are key. This program is part of a long-term vision to improve the sports sector in Meghalaya, including infrastructure development worth nearly ₹1900 crores and future goals like contributing to India’s performance in the 2036 Olympic Games”, the chief minister added. 

Stating that the National Games should not be treated as a one-time event, but as a journey, he said, “This support is aimed at building a strong and lasting foundation for sports in Meghalaya.”

Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri described the day as historic, stating that this level of support and freedom has never been given before to sports association. 

He said that the government is showing its commitment not just through words but through real action. 

MSOA Working President John F. Kharshiing thanked the government and said that the countdown has begun and the responsibility is now on the associations to deliver results.