Meghalaya has sought the Centre’s support to increase its allocation under Externally Aided Projects, or EAP, to Rs 10,000 crore. The state has also requested financial and infrastructure assistance for the 2027 National Games.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma raised the issues during his recent visit to New Delhi. He met Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia and Union Health Minister JP Nadda.
Apart from infrastructure and sports, the Meghalaya government also renewed its demand for a higher status for NEIGRIHMS. The state wants the Shillong-based institute to receive recognition as an Institute of National Importance.
The discussions focused on three key areas. These included development funding, preparations for the National Games and healthcare infrastructure.
Read More: 32-member Kolkata Group Among Many From West Bengal Untraceable After Nepal Disaster
Meghalaya pushes for Rs 10,000 crore EAP allocation
The Meghalaya government currently has an EAP allocation of Rs 5,000 crore. According to Sangma, the allocation has remained unchanged since the previous Finance Commission.
The state now wants the Centre to increase the amount significantly. Meghalaya has proposed a total allocation of Rs 15,000 crore in the long term.
For now, however, the government has requested an increase to Rs 10,000 crore. The proposed increase would double the state’s current EAP allocation.
Sangma discussed the matter with the Centre during his meetings in New Delhi. He highlighted Meghalaya’s requirement for greater financial support to implement major development projects.
The chief minister also stressed the importance of higher EAP allocations for the Northeastern region. States in the region often face geographical and logistical challenges while implementing large infrastructure projects.
According to Sangma, Meghalaya has performed well in implementing EAP-funded projects. He said the state has developed experience in executing such initiatives.
The Centre also provides significant support for loans taken under the EAP mechanism. Sangma noted that the Government of India services 90 per cent of these loans.
A higher allocation could help Meghalaya take up more infrastructure and development projects. The state government hopes that additional funding will support its long-term growth plans.
State seeks central support for 2027 National Games
Another major issue raised by Meghalaya involved preparations for the 39th National Games in 2027.
Meghalaya will host the prestigious multi-sport event. However, the state plans to involve other Northeastern states in the organisation.
Several sporting disciplines may take place across different parts of the region. This approach could allow the Games to showcase sporting infrastructure throughout the Northeast.
To support the preparations, Meghalaya has sought financial assistance from the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.
The state has also requested support for sports infrastructure. New facilities and upgrades will play a key role in hosting the event successfully.
Sangma said the government has approached the DoNER Ministry for assistance. The request covers both funding and infrastructure development.
Jyotiraditya Scindia has reportedly assured the chief minister that the Centre will examine Meghalaya’s proposals.
Detailed plans will follow after the ongoing Assembly session. The state government is expected to submit specific proposals to the concerned ministries.
These proposals will outline Meghalaya’s infrastructure needs and funding requirements. They may also provide details about the venues planned for the 2027 National Games.
Meghalaya steps up preparations for major sporting event
Preparations for the 39th National Games have already gained momentum in Meghalaya.
The event will give the state an opportunity to improve its sports infrastructure. It could also create better facilities for athletes across the region.
Earlier, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya reviewed Meghalaya’s preparations for the Games. During the review, he emphasised the need for quality infrastructure and smooth coordination.
The Union minister also highlighted the importance of public participation. A successful National Games would require cooperation from sports bodies, government agencies and local communities.
Meghalaya has already started investing in sports development. The state aims to strengthen existing facilities and develop new venues before 2027.
The Centre has also announced plans for a Rs 150-crore high-altitude training centre in Meghalaya. Such a facility could support athletes from Meghalaya and other parts of the Northeast.
Officials believe the National Games can leave a lasting sporting legacy. Better infrastructure could continue to benefit athletes even after the event concludes.
The Games may also help identify young sporting talent. Athletes from remote areas could receive greater exposure through improved training and competition facilities.
Hosting the event could further place Meghalaya on India’s sporting map. The government hopes to use the opportunity to promote the state’s tourism potential as well.
Northeast-wide participation may shape the Games
Meghalaya’s plan to involve other Northeastern states could give the 2027 National Games a wider regional character.
The Northeast has produced several successful athletes across different sports. Hosting events across the region could allow more states to participate directly in the organisation.
This model could also reduce pressure on a single host state. Different locations could host disciplines based on available facilities and infrastructure.
Such participation would require close coordination among state governments. Sports authorities would also need to finalise venues, schedules and logistical arrangements.
The Centre’s support could prove crucial in this process. Funding for infrastructure, transport and venue development may determine the scale of the regional participation.
Meghalaya is therefore seeking early approval and support for its plans. Timely funding could help authorities complete projects well before the opening of the Games.
NEIGRIHMS Institute of National Importance demand renewed
Healthcare also featured prominently in Sangma’s discussions in New Delhi.
During his meeting with Union Health Minister JP Nadda, the chief minister reiterated Meghalaya’s demand for NEIGRIHMS to receive the status of an Institute of National Importance.
NEIGRIHMS is a major healthcare and medical education institution in Shillong. The Meghalaya government believes a higher institutional status could strengthen its role in the region.
Sangma also raised concerns related to recruitment at the institute. He stressed the need to create better employment opportunities for local youth.
The chief minister said he discussed the matter directly with the Union Health Minister. Nadda reportedly acknowledged the state’s concerns and demand.
The government sees NEIGRIHMS as an important healthcare institution for the entire Northeast. Strengthening the institute could improve access to specialised medical services and education.
Meghalaya awaits Centre’s response
Meghalaya has placed several important demands before the Centre. The state wants a higher EAP allocation, support for the 2027 National Games and greater recognition for NEIGRIHMS.
The proposed Rs 10,000 crore EAP allocation remains a key part of Meghalaya’s development plans. The state also hopes to eventually secure a total allocation of Rs 15,000 crore.
Meanwhile, preparations for the 2027 National Games will continue. Meghalaya plans to submit detailed proposals to the Centre after the Assembly session.
The government’s discussions in New Delhi reflect its focus on development, sports and healthcare. The Centre’s response to these proposals could shape several major projects in Meghalaya over the coming years.
Read More: Mizoram Procures Over 2 Lakh Quintals of Ginger This Year, Says Minister