CM backs Shillong's preparedness to host SAG
From a Reporter
Shillong, Feb 4: Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma today expressed confidence that Shillong is ready to co-host the 12th South Asian Games 2016.
Dr Sangma said this on the sidelines of a visit to the Jawaharlal Nehru Sports Complex and First Ground, Polo, which will play host to several disciplines. The Games start tomorrow with archery and football getting the ball rolling.
The Chief Minister also informed that Meghalaya is preparing to bid to be the host of the tiol Games in 2022, which would coincide with the 50th year of statehood.
"We hope to ensure that the South Asian Games helps us create positive stories and connect us with the rest of the world," Dr Sangma said. "We must ensure that whoever are visiting from across these eight participating tions have the best time here and we are geared up to ensure that," he added.
The Chief Minister also appreciated the enthusiasm shown by the volunteers and others working behind the scenes to make the 12th edition of the tourment a great success.
"I see that we are really prepared. Everybody is geared up and I see lots of excitement from the people preparing the venues. There is lots of positive energy flowing and the event is going to be a grand success. Shillong should set the benchmark for others," Dr Sangma said.
Meanwhile, the CM also announced the exciting news that Meghalaya will bid for the 2022 tiol Games.
"We are preparing to bid to host the tiol Games as we look forward and prepare to celebrate the 50th year of our statehood, that's in 2022. I have advised all concerned departments and stakeholders, including the State Olympic Association, Sports Department and Fince Department to prepare. I am pretty sure that it will be befitting for the people of the state to prepare ourselves as a really capable and competent state," Dr Sangma said.
During the tour of the venues, the Chief Minister was accompanied by Sports and Youth Affairs Minister and Games Co-Chairman Mr Zenith Sangma, South Asian Games CEO (Shillong) Mr RK Sharma, Joint CEO and Sports and Youth Affairs Commissioner and Secretary Mr FR Kharkongor, Sports and Youth Affairs Director Mr FM Dopth, Arts and Culture Director Ms Matsiewdor War Nongbri, Meghalaya State Olympic Association Working President Mr John Kharshiing, senior police officials and others