Meghalaya aims for first ever biodegradable National Games

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 16, 2025

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday announced that the upcoming 39th National Games, to be hosted in Meghalaya, will be plastic-free. The state is aiming to make the event completely biodegradable—marking a first in the country.

The Chief Minister shared this ambitious vision during a visit to Nongpiyur Government Lower Primary School, where he highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle plastic waste under the S.U.P.E.R Campaign 2024 (Single Use Plastic Eco Recycling). This campaign is a joint initiative of My Meghalaya My Pride and GreenAmmo, in collaboration with the Directorate of School Education & Literacy and the State Project Office, SEMAM-Samagra Shiksha.

During his visit, the CM inspected a toilet constructed entirely from single-use plastic waste—an innovative recycling effort under the campaign.

He also announced a major investment of Rs 1890 crore in a cutting-edge facility that will manufacture starch-based biodegradable bags and bottles, intended to replace conventional plastics. “My target is that the National Games should be completely biodegradable,” Sangma emphasized, underlining the state’s broader commitment to sustainable development.

The company behind this green manufacturing project has already conducted a feasibility survey and is seeking state support to set up operations in Meghalaya—an initiative that the CM has fully endorsed.

While acknowledging the challenges of enforcing a complete plastic ban—including items like chip packets and chocolate wrappers—Sangma advocated for a phased approach that combines government action with community participation.

Adding to this green push, Nicholas Kharnami from the S.U.P.E.R Campaign showcased a practical school-level recycling project that repurposes plastic waste to build infrastructure such as toilets. The CM praised the initiative for its dual impact on environmental protection and public health.

The event was attended by former MLA and government advisor Hamlet Dohling, Director of School Education and Literacy J A Marvin, Sub-Divisional School Education Officers, school headmasters, and teachers. The Chief Minister also committed to providing musical instruments for the school.