Meghalaya receives IOA Flag for 39th National Games

Meghalaya received the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Flag for the 39th National Games on Saturday after the 38th edition of the Games came to a close in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

State Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma received the IOA Flag from Home Minister Amit Shah and IOA president PT Usha, with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in attendance.

This moment marked the official handover to Meghalaya as the host of the 39th National Games. With this milestone movement, Meghalaya officially begins its preparation to host the Games in 2027, coinciding with the state’s 55th year of statehood.

Hosting the National Games will mark a special moment for Meghalaya, a state which expanded its sports infrastructure extensively from a single facility in 2018.

Speaking on the occasion, Conrad Sangma said, "Hosting the 39th National Games will be a proud moment for Meghalaya and a reflection of how far we have come in strengthening our sporting ecosystem.”

“From a single marquee sports facility in 2018 to over 200 infrastructure projects today, our commitment to sports has been unwavering. We have invested Rs 1,200 crore in world-class venues, nurtured over 24,500 young athletes, and set our sights on producing Olympians by 2032. As we prepare for the Games, our focus remains on creating a lasting legacy that will inspire generations of athletes and elevate Meghalaya’s presence on the national sports stage,” he added.

Meghalaya won five medals, including a gold medal and two silver and as many bronze medals at the 38th National Games.

The 39th National Games in Meghalaya promise to be a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and excellence, bringing together the best talent from across the country. As the countdown to 2027 begins, Meghalaya is poised to make history and set new benchmarks in the realm of Indian sports.