Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has urged the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development to grant the state a six-month extension to complete the enrolment and Aadhaar linking of all beneficiaries under the Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP) through eKYC and facial recognition systems.
Meghalaya, known for its pioneering Early Childhood Development Mission, has been at the forefront of initiatives to combat malnutrition and ensure the holistic development of children and women. The state’s approach prioritizes nutrition, education, and overall well-being from conception to the age of eight, aligning with national objectives.
In a letter to Union Minister Annapurna Devi, Sangma also expressed gratitude for the Centre’s initiative to establish five Centres for Disability Sports across the country. He highlighted the significance of the proposed Disability Sports Complex in Shillong, emphasizing its role in fostering inclusivity and athletic opportunities for persons with disabilities in the North East.
“It is a matter of great pride for us that one of the Disability Sports Complexes shall come up at Shillong, Meghalaya. This centre would cater to the North Eastern region in general and Meghalaya in particular, where such sporting facilities are critically required,” Sangma stated.
With Meghalaya set to host the National Games in 2027, the Chief Minister underscored the project’s importance in building the necessary infrastructure for athletes with disabilities. He confirmed that 40 acres of land at Mawkhanu, Mawpdang, New Shillong Township (NST) has been allocated for the sports complex and urged the Union Government to finalize the site in consultation with state officials.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment, Sangma assured full support for land levelling, site development, and the provision of essential amenities. He also referenced a recent visit by officials from the Ministry on February 13, 2025, which strengthened collaboration on the project.
“I therefore seek your blessing in allocating this sports facility for persons with disabilities to the State of Meghalaya and assure you of the full support and cooperation of the State Government in the timely completion of this essential sporting project,” he concluded.