SHILLONG: With Meghalaya preparing to host the 39th National Games from March 10 to 30 next year, the Indian Olympic Association’s (IOA) Games Technical Conduct Committee (GTCC) has expressed satisfaction with the progress of sporting infrastructure at venues inspected in Shillong and Jowai, providing an early endorsement of the State’s preparations for one of the country’s biggest multi-sport events. The committee’s assessment assumes significance as Meghalaya gears up to host the national sporting extravaganza for the first time, with some disciplines also scheduled to be conducted in other Northeastern States. The regional arrangement, according to the IOA panel, could extend the Games beyond the host State, generate greater enthusiasm and create opportunities for sports development across the Northeast.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, GTCC Chairperson Sunaina Kumari said the five-member committee had inspected venues in Shillong and Jowai since Wednesday and was satisfied with the progress of work. She said this was the committee’s first visit to Meghalaya and that other proposed venues would be covered during subsequent visits to assess the overall readiness. Kumari also appreciated Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and other ministers for their efforts towards hosting the event, adding that the committee would remain available to provide technical assistance and guidance to the State government throughout the preparations.
On the decision to hold some sporting disciplines in other Northeastern States, Kumari said the arrangement would help generate greater enthusiasm and encourage wider participation in the Games. She described the regional approach as a positive step towards promoting sports and creating opportunities for their development across the Northeast.
On accommodation arrangements, Kumari said athletes would be housed in facilities close to their respective competition venues instead of a centralised Games Village. The committee has already inspected a few accommodation facilities near the venues, which will be assessed and shortlisted based on their suitability for participating athletes.
The GTCC is headed by Kumari as chairperson, with Ravinder Choudhary, Maninder Pal Singh, V. Sunil Kumar and Dushyant Sharma as members. The 39th National Games are tentatively scheduled to be held in Meghalaya from March 10 to 30 next year.
