Shillong, April 21, 2026: In a significant push to strengthen Meghalaya’s representation in India’s Civil Services, the Meghalaya Government launched the CM-INSPIRE scheme aimed at empowering young aspirants preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations.
While announcing the initiative, Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister underscored the importance to bring a change to the decline in the representation of indigenous people in the Indian civil services. “My dear young aspirants of Meghalaya, today marks an important step in supporting the dreams of our youth. For many years, our representation in the civil services has declined. Today, we take a decisive step to change that with the launch of CM-INSPIRE,” he stated.
Under the CM-INSPIRE scheme, candidates who successfully clear the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination will be given financial assistance of ₹50,000, whereas those who successfully clear the Mains Examination will receive ₹1 lakh as financial assistance. This initiative aims to reduce financial burden which aspiring candidates face, while ensuring that deserving candidates also receive equal opportunities instead of being held back by economic constraints.
“The government stands firmly with you on this journey,” Shri Conrad K Sangma added while encouraging the young aspirants to believe in themselves and stay committed to their goals.
Candidates who are eligible will be able to apply for the scheme through the Meghalaya Administrative Training Institute (MATI) portal once applications are open.
The CM-INSPIRE initiative is a welcoming step that will provide aspiring youth of the state with the opportunity to chase their dreams, while reinforcing the Government’s commitment to building and empowering young visionary leaders.
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Shillong, April 21, 2026: Marking a significant step in building a strong and self-sustaining entrepreneurial ecosystem, PRIME (Promotion and Incubation of Market-driven Enterprises) Meghalaya hosted ‘PRIME IGNITE 2026’ to celebrate the World Creativity and Innovation Day. Held at the Durbar Hall, Lok Bhavan, Shillong, the convergence brought together the State’s entrepreneurs and officials to showcase creativity and launch critical infrastructure aimed at empowering Meghalaya’s enterprise community.
A key highlight of the event was official launch of the ‘PRIME Annual Booklet’ and recognition of contributors and the editorial team. The publication captures a year of progress, partnerships, and impact across the PRIME ecosystem.
It also recognised the role of youth leaders in driving the State’s economic growth. Cheques and certificates were presented to the winners of the ‘PRIME Student Ambassador Contest’, reinforcing the importance of nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit at the grassroots level. The top prize was awarded to the team of College of Community Science while students from Jaintia Eastern College secured the 1st and 2nd runner up positions.
Addressing the assemblage, Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Government of Meghalaya, Planning, Investment Promotion and Sustainable Development, stated that the State is resolutely focused on transforming the entrepreneurial landscape. She remarked, “We don't look at innovation as a chance thing, but we look at the word 'ignite,' which means ideas come from citizens, government merely supports, and government will put in all effort to ensure that your innovativeness is supported from the start of the innovation to the market levels."
Illustrating the scale of this mission, she highlighted the initiation of 2,847 entrepreneurs in CM ELEVATE, the funding of over 885 entities, and the registration of 1,350 PRIME startups, ensuring entrepreneurs receive the essential market linkages, mentorship, and financial backing required to scale their innovations from localized ideas to globally competitive businesses.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri D D Shira, MCS, Director, Meghalaya Institute of Entrepreneurship, stated that innovation and creativity play an important role in addressing global challenges. He highlighted the transformative impact of PRIME since its inception, under the vision of Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister. He noted that the system has successfully helped thousands of local entrepreneurs and enterprises by offering mentorship, financial support and market linkages. He concluded by reaffirming the State’s commitment towards strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The event also saw the official launch the official launch of three key digital initiatives. The PRIME Digital Service Providers Platform (PRIME DSPP) to centralise and enhance service delivery, the Ekanbha Website to empower artisans with disabilities through sustainable e-commerce and the ONG YI delivery App, Upper Shillong’s first online home delivery service. These platforms will facilitate end-to-end support to entrepreneurs and bridge the gap between them and essential services.
Demonstrating a universal approach towards enterprise promotion and incubation, the event featured dedicated showcases from local innovators. Presentations spanned different sectors, including creative products by student teams SECZOOLOGY and Smart Tourist Spot Crowd Management; healthcare manufacturing solutions by Joy Dey’s Corale Health and Hygiene; and advanced GIS, IT, and IoT service innovations by Banaibor Kharmynthon’s Mechatron Pvt Ltd.
As Meghalaya continues to champion its local innovators, PRIME IGNITE 2026 stands as a powerful statement to the State’s commitment to economic development and empowerment.
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Khliehriat, April 17, 2026: With the aim of improving connectivity in the region and in order to provide residents of Umkiang with better access to essential services thus facilitating boosting of the local economy and making it easier for residents particularly farmers to transport their produce more efficiently, an Internal CC Road at Apha, Umkiang Village, East Jaintia Hills District, constructed under the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), Scheme, East Jaintia Hills District for the Financial Year 2025-26 was today inaugurated by Local MLA, Smti. Santa Mary Shylla in the presence of Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Manish Kumar, IAS, Headman, Umkiang Village, Shri Lasting Pala, community members and others.
In her address, Chief Guest of the programme and Local MLA, Smti. Santa Mary Shylla stated that the newly inaugurated CC Road, constructed at a cost of 40 lakhs under DMF Scheme, is expected to ease connectivity in the area with its inauguration facilitating easier access to agricultural fields in particular. She also recalled that similar investments have been made earlier for boosting the health sector in the area through renovation works of Umkiang PHC which were undertaken under the DMF Scheme.
Smti. Shylla, while speaking on the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) of the Central Government, informed that matters pertaining to inclusion of Umkiang Village under the programme are being processed at different levels, with the village expected to receive approximately 3 crores of investment if selected under the programme.
Concluding her address, Smti. Shylla called for collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in the interest of overall progress and development in the area across varied sectors.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Manish Kumar, IAS in his address stated that the newly constructed CC road in Umkiang Village is a significant milestone for improving connectivity in the area even as he stressed that improved road connectivity would play a vital role in ensuring uninterrupted access to essential services such as healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities.
Shri Kumar further noted that East Jaintia Hills District has been receiving sizeable amount of funds from industrial and mining activities in the form of royalty which is being invested in rural development initiatives, particularly in the health, education and community development sectors while also urging community members to actively participate in various government schemes and development programmes to ensure inclusive growth and overall socio-economic development.
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Sohra, April 16, 2026: The Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board organized an awareness programme on “Clean Sohra, Green Sohra: A Collective Responsibility for Sustainable Tourism” on April 16, 2026, at the Conference Hall of the SDO Civil Sub-Division, Sohra.
The programme saw participation from the Tourism department, stakeholders including homestay and hotel representatives, along with members of the Hima Sohra.
Addressing the gathering, Shri G.H. Chyrmang, Member Secretary, MSPCB, emphasized waste recycling, use of septic tank pumps, and income generation through recycled by-products, stressing systematic waste management.
Shri Wompher Shadap, Capacity Building Specialist, Swachh Bharat Mission Urban, highlighted community-based waste management, segregation at source, and decentralized systems.
Discussions also covered “waste as a resource” and plastic waste management. Shri Alan West, MTDC informed that an agreement has been signed between the Hima Sohra and Concrea Infrastructures, a Guwahati-based infrastructure company for strengthening waste management initiatives.
The Hima Sohra Tourist Assistant Team was acknowledged for voluntary efforts such as pamphlet distribution and maintaining cleanliness at tourist spots.
An interactive session was also held, where participants actively engaged with experts, shared concerns, and discussed practical challenges and solutions related to waste management in Sohra.
The programme emphasized teamwork between government, Dorbar, and the public, and highlighted concerns over mass tourism, calling for responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
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Shillong, April 15, 2026: The World Art Day Celebration 2026 was held with great enthusiasm on 15th April 2026 at Lok Bhavan, Shillong, commemorating the birth anniversary of the legendary Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci. The occasion also marked a significant cultural milestone—the commemoration of 150 years of Vande Mataram, one of India’s most revered national songs symbolizing the spirit of freedom, identity, and cultural unity.
The programme was graced by Shri Charles Pyngrope, former Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, as the Chief Guest. The event was attended by a distinguished gathering including Shri F. R. Kharkongor, Principal Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Arts and Culture Department; Shri Manaj Saha, President of the International Association of Art – India; Shri Biplap Roy, Brand Ambassador of the Association; Shri R. V. Warjri, IFS, Adviser to the Meghalaya Chapter; and Shri Raphael Warjri, State Coordinator of the Meghalaya Chapter, along with eminent artists, art connoisseurs, and cultural enthusiasts.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Guest reflected on the universal significance of art and its enduring role in shaping societies. He also highlighted the importance of Vande Mataram as a cultural and artistic expression that inspired generations during India’s freedom movement and continues to resonate as a symbol of national pride. He further described the unique artistic landscape of Meghalaya, noting that Shillong stands as a vast natural canvas of extraordinary beauty. He commended the initiative of the International Association of Art – India in organizing the celebration, emphasizing its role in fostering artistic engagement in the region.
Following the inaugural session, a memorial art exhibition was formally declared open by the Chief Guest in the presence of dignitaries and attendees. The exhibition showcased a diverse spectrum of artistic expressions, reflecting both contemporary creativity and cultural heritage.
A significant address was delivered by Shri Manaj Saha, who underscored the immense artistic potential of Meghalaya and the wider North Eastern region of India. He observed that while the artistic standards of the region are on par with national and global benchmarks, there remains a need for greater exposure, institutional support, and strategic direction. He assured that the International Association of Art – India would actively work towards promoting artists and creating platforms for wider recognition.
In his address, Shri Raphael Warjri, State Coordinator, reflected on the historical significance of Shillong as a former administrative capital during the British colonial period and a centre of socio-political development in both pre- and post-independence India. Despite this rich legacy, he expressed concern over the lack of adequate art institutions and galleries in the State. He noted that while efforts have been made over time, a sustained and structured institutional framework for the arts is yet to be realized.
The exhibition featured the participation of 40 artists, including both local practitioners and artists from across the country, making it a vibrant confluence of diverse artistic voices.
One of the highlights of the celebration was a series of engaging art talks delivered by eminent speakers. Dr. Meghali Goswami, Assistant Professor at Kala Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, presented an insightful lecture on the history of art in Meghalaya. Digital artist Shovin Bhattacharjee shared his journey through the evolving landscape of digital art in India. Dr. Prakash Kishore spoke about his artistic migration across the country and the transformation of his creative expression before settling in Shillong. Shri Arak M. Sangma presented a compelling account of Garo folk culture and the emergence of vibrant artistic traditions across the Garo Hills.
The programme concluded with a thought-provoking address by Dr. B. D. R. Tiwari, Chief Electoral Officer of Meghalaya, who explored the philosophical essence of Indian art and its continuity through centuries of cultural evolution. He also reflected on the artistic and emotional resonance of Vande Mataram as a timeless expression of the nation’s cultural consciousness.
The World Art Day Celebration 2026 thus emerged as a significant platform for dialogue, reflection, and cultural reaffirmation—honouring global artistic heritage while simultaneously celebrating India’s own rich legacy through the commemoration of Vande Mataram. The national song was sung at the beginning and at the end of the inaugural session by the artists of eminent cultural exponent, Padmashri Silbi Passah, which arouse the spirit of allegiance to the motherland.
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Jowai, April 14, 2026: The Jowai Fire Service & Emergency Service Station and Amlarem Fire Service & Emergency Service Station observed Fire Service Day at their respective offices today. The observance was held under the theme, “Safe Schools, Safe Hospitals and Fire Safety Aware Society-Together for the Prevention.”
Homage was paid to the brave fighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. The officers and Fire Service personnel of Jowai Fire Service & Emergency Service Station led by Inspector Gauri Shankar Singh observed minutes of silences as mark of respect and remembrance, honouring the sacrifices made by the fire Service personnel across the country.
As part of the programme awareness activities were carried out to educate the public on fire protection and safety practices. Pamphlets containing the important fire guidelines were distributed to the public.
The observance at Amlarem Fire Service Station was led by Station Officer Tipmon War in the presence of Sub -Officer Robert Rymbui and Fire Service personnel. A moment of silence was also observed to pay homage to fallen firefighters.
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Khliehriat, April 8, 2026: In order to strengthen healthcare services in Sutnga- Saipung areas, an X-Ray Room at Sutnga Community Health Centre (CHC), East Jaintia Hills District funded by Green Valley Industries Limited under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project with the support of Executive Members of Elaka Sutnga was today inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Manish Kumar, IAS in the presence of Local Director, Green Valley Industries Limited, Elaka Sutnga, Smti. Kyrmenlang Wahlang and District Medical & Health Officer (DM&HO), East Jaintia Hills District, Dr D. Shylla at a programme held at the premises of Sutnga CHC, East Jaintia Hills District.
Others present during the inaugural function include Block Development Officer (BDO), Saipung C&RD Block, Dr R. Pyrtuh, Medical & Health Officer, in-charge Sutnga CHC, Dr R. Toi, Acting Daloi, Elaka Sutnga, Shri Bankupar Sutnga, Secretary Elaka Sutnga, Shri Lappideris Pala, traditional heads, people of the area and others.
In his address, Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District, Shri Manish Kumar, IAS stated that the establishment and upgradation of amenities in healthcare facilities such as CHCs is crucial in ensuring timely medical intervention and specialized healthcare services for the people in need.
He commended the efforts of the medical staff and doctors of Sutnga CHC for their unwavering commitment, dedication and continuous efforts in delivering quality healthcare services to the community. He remarked that the present development is only the beginning, as the healthcare sector is constantly evolving with time.
Speaking on the progress made over the years, the Deputy Commissioner stated that healthcare facilities have significantly improved compared to the past, owing to advancements in technology and increased funding support. He pointed out that healthcare centres, including CHCs, PHCs and district hospitals, are now better equipped with diagnostic facilities, which has enhanced the overall quality of healthcare delivery in the district.
He further highlighted that these improvements are a result of the commitment of the State Government along with continuous support from the Central Government towards strengthening healthcare services across all levels.
While acknowledging the progress, the Deputy Commissioner also pointed out existing gaps in public healthcare facilities and stressed the importance of collaboration with the industrial sector. He stated that industries play a vital role as key stakeholders in the developmental process and their continuous support and timely interventions are essential in bridging these gaps even as he expressed his gratitude to Green Valley Industries Limited for their contribution towards improving healthcare services in the district.
Meanwhile, Local Director of Green Valley Industries Limited, Smti. Kyrmenlang Wahlang, described the inauguration as an important milestone in enhancing medical facilities for the people of the area.
Smti. Wahlang also highlighted that the availability of X-Ray services at the health centre would greatly benefit patients by facilitating early diagnosis and timely treatment of various diseases. She further stated that the facility would reduce the need for patients to travel long distances to access diagnostic services, thereby saving both time and financial resources.
She also appreciated the efforts of the CHC team and all stakeholders involved in successfully implementing the project, noting that it reflects a strong commitment towards the welfare of the community even as she expressed optimism that the facility would be utilized with utmost care, professionalism and compassion in serving every patient.
Others who spoke during the programme were District Medical & Health Officer (DM&HO), East Jaintia Hills District, Dr D. Shylla, Medical & Health Officer, in-charge Sutnga CHC, Dr R. Toi, Acting Daloi, Elaka Sutnga, Shri Bankupar Sutnga and Secretary of Elaka Sutnga, Shri Lappideris Pala.
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~State stresses early screening, last-mile delivery, and community participation~
Shillong, 7th April, 2026: Reinforcing its commitment to universal healthcare, Meghalaya on Tuesday observed World Health Day under the theme "Together for Health: Stand with Science," with a renewed focus on equitable access, early screening, and strengthening last-mile service delivery.
Health authorities highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and inclusive, while calling for greater community participation, particularly in preventive care and early diagnosis.
Smti R. M. Kurbah, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, Government of Meghalaya, stressed the importance of annual health check-ups for families, adding that male participation is crucial when it comes to family health. She said, "We need to take expert knowledge that we receive. Science has transformed lives." In a word of encouragement to the ASHAs, she praised their relentless commitment, and dedication.
Smti J. S. Momin, DHS (MI), Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya in her speech said, "We are actively addressing the gaps; the state is making significant strides. Meghalaya has strong health infrastructure; there are 489 sub-centers, 110 PHCs, 23 CHCs and 11 district hospitals along with expanding health and wellness delivering primary health services." She added, "Screening is one of the effective tools, and helps in early treatment." She also acknowledged the efforts made by ASHAs, who are the backbone of the healthcare delivery system.
Smti Patricia Mukhim, Editor, The Shillong Times, shared her views, "Awareness is important. Health is more about the quality of life that we live. One of the strongest messages we can give is to go for early check-up. We have to set out hope for the masses."
Dr Robert R. Marak, District Nodal Officer, NP-NCD, stressed on the importance of early screening for NCDs, stating, "We all need to work together collectively to improve community participation for NCD screening as evidence shows that NCDs are silent killers and the leading cause of death worldwide”.
Shri Hiporly Talang, Consultant, NP-NCD, East Khasi Hills shared his insights saying, “Sitting is another type of smoking. Long hours of sitting without activity can harm health and increase disease risk.
Eat food like medicine, or we have to eat medicine like food. Healthy eating prevents disease; unhealthy habits lead to dependence on medicines. The greatest threat of the 21st century is not only the virus or pandemic, but our behavior and lifestyle. Our daily habits play a major role in causing long-term diseases.”
Health experts also delivered talks, including Dr Shailinia Syiem, President of Shillong Obs. and Gyn. Society, who spoke on the topic "Healthy women, healthy community," focusing on holistic women’s health and the importance of reproductive care. Dr Anisha Mawlong, Head of Oncology, Civil Hospital, Shillong, delivered a talk on cancer screening, stressing the need for early detection and maintaining that it is preventable and curable. Dr Synrang Batngen Warjri, MD DM (Cardiology), The Shillong Heart Clinic, said it is important to undergo screening even among young adults, urging people to take care of their heart.
To commemorate the day, the NCD (Non-Communicable Diseases) Cell under the office of the DM & HO, East Khasi Hills, conducted health screening for non-communicable diseases for individuals aged 30 years and above.
Dignitaries who attended the programme were Smti R. M. Kurbah, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, Government of Meghalaya, Smti J. S. Momin, DHS (MI), Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, Dr (Mrs) AJU Kharduid, DMHO, East Khasi Hills, Dr (Mrs) JK Sangma, Addl DMHO, East Khasi Hills, Smti Patricia Mukhim, Editor, The Shillong Times, Dr Robert R. Marak, District Nodal Officer, NP-NCD, Dr Shailinia Syiem, President of Shillong Obs. and Gyn. Society, Dr Anisha Mawlong, Head of Oncology, Civil Hospital, Shillong, Dr Synrang Batngen Warjri, MD DM (Cardiology), The Shillong Heart Clinic, Shri Hiporly Talang, Consultant, NP-NCD, East Khasi Hills.
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Shillong, April, 2026: The Department of Information Technology at Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU) organised an outreach program at Khliehasem village to raise awareness about the growing influence of social media across different generations.
The program was led by BCA 4th semester students on the topic “Ka Social Media bad ka Jingioh bynta jong ka haki pateng bapher bapher”. The students interacted with the local community and explained both the positive and negative effects of social media, including improved communication and access to information, as well as challenges like misinformation, addiction, reduced personal interaction, and its impact on daily life among youth, adults, and the elderly.
To make the session more engaging, the students also performed a skit that portrayed real-life situations influenced by social media. The performance delivered strong messages on digital awareness and responsible usage, and was well received by the villagers.
The outreach program reflects MLCU’s continued commitment to community engagement and social responsibility, while also giving students a platform to apply their knowledge and spread awareness. The event concluded with an interactive session where villagers shared their views, making the program meaningful and impactful for everyone involved.
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Shillong, April 01, 2026: Marking a significant moment for sailing and water sports in the country, Meghalaya successfully hosted the 1st Indian Sailing League (ISL) with a grand closing ceremony at the Orchid Sports Complex, Umiam, featuring a strong representation of 182 participants, including 58 international sailors from countries like Russia, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka.
The five-day event that featured intense competition amongst 14 franchises under different formats saw Bhopal Tritons emerging as the winner of the inaugural edition, and AJ’s Vizag Viking taking the second spot while home team Shillong Umiam Navigators (SUN) claimed a podium finish with the third spot. Deccan Skippers, VIR Cholas, and Pune Peshwas claimed the fourth, fifth and sixth spots respectively.
Apart from the titles, a total prize pool of ₹1.5 crores was awarded to the teams and the individual winners under different categories.
Shri. Chaitanya Awasthi, IAS, Sub-Divisional Officer of Ri-Bhoi District, Government of Meghalaya, lauded the exceptional talent, spirited competition, and sportsmanship displayed at Umiam Lake. He commended the meticulous planning of the organizers, noting that their collective efforts in nurturing emerging talent are foundational steps toward seeing Indian sailors compete on the Olympic stage. Drawing a parallel to his own journey through competitive exams, he reminded participants that resilience and determination are the ultimate markers of success. Highlighting the State's pivotal role in the event's success, he extended sincere gratitude to the various departments of the Government of Meghalaya for their invaluable support.
Admiral Karambir Singh, PVSM, AVSM, ADC (retd), Former Chief of Naval Staff, President Yachting Association of India, praised the successful execution of the event, attributing it to the infrastructure and assistance provided. He extended his gratitude to the Government of Meghalaya, the Hon’ble Chief Minister, and key state officials, emphasizing the region's dedication by stating, “The level of wholehearted support that the state government gave for this event, I have not seen any other state government give”. He noted rapid transformation of the venue land into a premier sailing destination over just a few years. He highlighted the Yachting Association of India's (YAI) three-fold vision to develop grassroots talent, secure international medals, and popularize the sport, noting that this inaugural event successfully met these goals while nurturing an enjoyable competitive environment.
Alok Kumar Yadav, League Commissioner, ISL, highlighted the collective dedication to innovate the sport and emphasized on organisational efforts to ensure fairness, festivity and maximum opportunities for the sailors. He expressed strong optimism that the success of the inaugural league will pave the way for an even better second season.
The Competition covered categories like ILCA 4 boys and girls, ILCA 6 and 7, 420, Optimist, Techno 293 and Olympic classes with innovative race formats like Rig-and-Race and transition events.
During the closing ceremony, all the technical committees, international jury, umpires, race officers, commentators and other key officials were felicitated for their support in the successful conduct of the league.
The Indian Sailing League saw a great participation with high energy racing creating an engaging experience for spectators and visitors at Umiam.
Notably, the first edition of the league was inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K Sangma, whose exemplary leadership has led to a continuous growth of the State’s Sports Infrastructure. As the event draws to a successful close, Meghalaya now looks forward to hosting the 4th North East Regatta from April 2-6, 2026, at the Umiam Water Sports Complex.
This back-to-back hosting of Competitive Water Sports events of such scale cements its position on the national and international sports tourism map while establishing Umiam, as a definitive capital for competitive water sports in India.
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