Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 7/25

BRIEFING ON THE FINAL PREPARATION OF THE 6TH MEGHALAYA GAMES

With just two days left for the 6th Meghalaya Games scheduled to begin on January 20 to January 25, preparations of the venues are nearing completion. Deputy Commissioner Shri. B.S Sohliya, IAS informed that the athletes from 11 districts along with home district will arrive on January19 in anticipation of the event. Today January 18, the district administration held a press conference in the conference room DC’s Office, Jowai to provide updates on the arrangements for the games.

Remarkably, the football matches began earlier on January 15. Speaking to media persons, Deputy Commissioner Shri. B.S Sohliya highlighted the unique efforts undertaken in preparation for the Meghalaya games, including a curtain raiser event held on January 13 that featured a video theme song and the unveiling of the games Mascot U Kiang in the form of a leopard the state animal adorned in the attire of a freedom fighter U Kiang Nangbah was conceptualized by Shri. Kamtre Sumer as part of an open competition organized by the office Deputy Commissioner, West Jaintia Hills. This competition was a personal initiative by DC Shri. B.S Sohliya to create vibrant and energetic vibes around the games, involving the community. He further informed that the headmen of each locality in Jowai Town have actively contributed to the preparation, showcasing the community involvement in making the event a success.

DC also called on residents to cooperate with the arrangements and actively participate in the event, encouraging them to not only contribute to the smooth execution of the games but also to witness the matches and be part of the excitement.

Shri. John F Kharshiiing, Working President MSOA, commended the district administration and the 15 committees for their dedicated efforts in the preparation for the Meghalaya Games. He emphasized a unique aspect of this 6th Meghalaya games, informing it is for the first time seven para-athletes, four women and 3 men will take part in para shooting event (pistol and rifles). The initiative was made possible following a request by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri. Conrad K Sangma to include para-athletes. He also expressed hope that in future would see increased involvement of para-athletes, stating that the state is dedicated to promoting inclusivity in sports. Kharshiing also informed this will also be for the first time in the state games two accomplished Australian athletes, high performance team of MSOA Robert Kabas and Ian Campbell will be present to witness the opening of Meghalaya games. He also shared that, this Meghalaya Games will witness around 3500 athletes competing for a total of 1600 medals, including 500 or more gold, 500 or more silver and 600 or more bronze medals.

Superintendent of Police C. Syrti, MPS, has informed that the Police force is fully prepared and deployment will be made where necessary to ensure security during the Meghalaya games. SP also stated that traffic arrangements have been finalized and published to facilitate and ensure seamless movement throughout the games.

Additional Deputy Commissioners Smt. D V Lyngdoh, ADC Smt. B.Blah and Assistant Director Sports and Youth Affairs and District Sports officer Shri. Khroo Passah was also present.