Meghalaya plans 50 football fields by 2028

Meghalaya plans to boost its economy through football. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced that the state aims to build 50 Astro Turf football fields by 2028. This would make it the state with the most such fields in India. In addition, over 100 training grounds for children and youth are being developed. Sangma shared these plans at the 7th Act East Business Show in Shillong. He explained that 25 of the planned football fields are already under construction, while the other 25 are still in the proposal stage. Each football field will cost around ₹10 crore, totaling ₹500 crore in investment. The popularity of football in Meghalaya has motivated the government to take significant steps. These include building a large 40,000-seat stadium, the biggest in India, and creating a centre of excellence in partnership with NorthEast United FC, a leading football club. The government aims to involve 25,000 children in grassroots football programs. The government is also focusing on other sports like archery, shooting, canoeing, and kayaking. They plan to support these sports based on their potential and the natural talents of local youth. Sangma mentioned that they want to create around 15,000 jobs linked to sports and music. He emphasized that while immediate results may not be visible, the investment in sports will contribute to character development in youth. Finally, Sangma noted that building a sports culture is essential. Winning medals is important, but the focus should be on creating a lasting support system for sports in the lives of children in Meghalaya.