With Shillong gearing up to host the National Games next year, NITI Aayog member Dr Joram Aniya carried out an inspection tour on Thursday at the Sports Authority of India Training Centre located at NEHU. The visit was aimed at evaluating the existing sports infrastructure and identifying critical areas that require upgrades before the major multi-sport event begins.
Comprehensive Review of Training Facilities
During her roughly two-hour stay at the facility, Dr Aniya closely examined the infrastructure dedicated to football, athletics, and archery. She also reviewed the training setups for combat and technical disciplines such as boxing, judo, karate, and sepak takraw, alongside inspecting the central gymnasium. In addition to reviewing the physical assets, she took time to interact individually with the young athletes training at the centre.
Official Delegation and Local Leadership
The visiting NITI Aayog member was accompanied by Director of Sports and Youth Affairs Alertson Nongbri and Deputy Director P.B. War Nongbri. Several sports authority officials, coaches, and local athletes were also present to brief her on the daily operations and requirements of the training ground.
Evaluating Regional Sporting Potential
Speaking to press members following the detailed inspection, Dr Aniya noted that Shillong has consistently demonstrated strong performance in sports, while emphasizing that considerable room for further growth remains. She remarked that her objective was to witness the progress of sports locally and help push the region toward even greater achievements.
Focus on National Games Preparedness
Reiterating the core purpose behind her schedule, Dr Aniya explained that evaluating the infrastructure at the NEHU facility is directly tied to the city's ongoing preparations for hosting the National Games next year. She stated that the review will help determine the exact enhancements needed to ensure successful execution of the forthcoming sporting spectacle.
