In a bid to celebrate unity and regional sporting excellence, the Government of India has proposed that all eight northeastern states co-host the 39th edition of the National Games in 2027. The plan, described as a first-of-its-kind model for the Games, was unanimously welcomed by representatives during a regional meeting held in Shillong on Saturday.
The proposal, which originated from the Ministry of Home Affairs, was presented at a closed-door discussion involving sports ministers, sports secretaries, and office-bearers of state Olympic associations from across the Northeast. Meghalaya’s Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri chaired the meeting, with Arunachal Pradesh Sports Minister Kento Jini serving as co-chair.
John F Kharshiing, working president of the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA), confirmed the development, noting that delegates from all eight states, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, shared constructive views on coordination and logistics for the ambitious multi-state hosting concept.
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Originally allotted solely to Meghalaya, the 2027 edition of the Games is now expected to unfold across multiple venues spanning the Northeast. “The proposal came from the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Meghalaya government accepted it, considering that it will promote regional cooperation,” Kharshiing said. “It also celebrates the rich sporting potential that the Northeast has always exemplified,” he added.
Warjri said the decision would go a long way in encouraging youth engagement and accelerating development of sports infrastructure across the region. “This will not only enhance our preparedness for large-scale events, but also foster unity and inclusiveness among the states,” he remarked.
The idea marks a return of sorts for the National Games to the region, which previously hosted the event in 1999 in Manipur and again in 2007 in Assam. However, this is the first time all eight states are set to share hosting responsibilities.
Participants at the meeting have agreed to reconvene shortly to finalise logistical, operational, and financial frameworks for the Games. The event is expected to act as a catalyst for long-term investment in regional sporting talent and infrastructure.
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