Shillong (Meghalaya), May 7: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday launched the Shillong Sports Association’s 2026 football season with a ₹32 lakh grant and a bold pitch: “We want Meghalaya, and Shillong in particular, to become the football capital of India.”
Sangma hoisted the SSA flag at the SSA Ground to declare the season open, joined by Sports Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, SSA President Banteidor Lyngdoh, players and officials. “Football holds a very special place in the hearts of our people. For many years, we were not able to provide the kind of platform football truly deserved. In the last few years we have made significant progress,” the Chief Minister said.
He said the government’s ₹32 lakh support from the CM’s Special Grant, up from ₹30 lakh last season, will fuel leagues from city to block level. “We must invest in our players, our coaches, our tournaments. That is how excitement for football will grow—when young players in every village believe they too can make it to the top.”
SSA General Secretary Dipshon L. Nongbri said 95% of last year’s grant went to cash prizes across five divisions, including women’s and grassroots tournaments. He also sought approval for a modern sitting gallery at SSA Stadium along the Umkhrah riverfront, noting the DPR is ready as the 1916-founded body nears 110 years.
“Not everyone will become a superstar, but every young person can become stronger, more disciplined, and a better individual through sports,” Sangma told players.
The ceremony featured jersey presentations and team introductions. Mawnianglah Youth Sports Association faced Sei La Sap FCC in the season opener after the kickoff.
