Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, along with Shri Shakliar Warjri, Hon’ble Sports Minister, awarded scholarships to 614 athletes under the Chief Minister’s Sports Scholarship Scheme for 2022-24 and 2024-25. The event, organised by the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, also featured a grand send-off ceremony for the Meghalaya State Team, set to represent the state at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 in Bihar. Altogether, 614 athletes from various sport disciplines will receive monthly scholarship from 2024-2025. The Meghalaya contingent comprises a total of 44 athletes and 14 officials who will participate in different sports disciplines at Khelo India 2025. In his address, The Hon’ble Chief Minister expressed his delight, happiness, and satisfaction at seeing how the entire sports ecosystem had progressed and grown over the last seven years under the MDA Government, likening it to a sports journey. He emphasised that the program, scholarships, and financial support could make a significant impact, stating that even a small amount could bring about change. He added that recognition and appreciation serve as the highest motivation. The Hon’ble Chief Minister assured the athletes that the government was proud of them and committed to addressing their concerns. He highlighted that nearly 75-80% of funds in the past seven years had been allocated to sports infrastructure, with aggressive progress driven by the state’s sports policy. Stressing the importance of a scientific approach, he noted that Meghalaya was the only state to implement such a large-scale talent identification program at an early age. He acknowledged that the athletes’ passion motivated the government to work harder. The Hon’ble Chief Minister asserted that the substantial spending is merely an expenditure but an investment, as it would foster a sportsmanship ecosystem in 5 to 10 years. He encouraged the Khelo India athletes to give their best and work hard. Lastly, he shared the vision of showcasing Meghalaya nationally and globally by hosting the National Games, urging every community and stakeholder to support this goal. Hon’ble Sports Minister Shri Shakliar Warjri congratulated the athletes and highlighted the sports initiatives initiated by the Government of Meghalaya in the past few years. He mentioned the STAR programme, under which 14,500 athletes were tested, and stated that they were looking five years ahead to produce national and international athletes. He assured that there was more to come and emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that the youth receive the best opportunities. He expressed his belief that the day’s programme was a testament to these efforts. In the 2023 edition held in Tamil Nadu, the Meghalaya football team clinched the championship title with a 2-0 victory over Punjab in the final, showcasing the state’s growing prowess in sports. Dignitaries present include Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Shakliar Warjri, Hon’ble Sports Minister, Shri Richard Yanthan, Joint Secretary, Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, Shri DD Shira, Director, Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs and Shri John F Kharshiing, Working President, MSOA. Other officials of various sports organisation, athletes and para athletes were also present.