In celebration of National Sports Day, the Meghalaya government announced a week-long event of sports and fitness activities across the state between the August 22-29. All citizens are encouraged to engage in sport and participating in activities planned for the week.
The theme of this week revolves around sports’ power to transcend all differences and encouraging people from all walks of life to play sport. The celebration is a part of the larger initiative organised by the ministry of youth affairs and sports. The FitIndia Pledge would be recited by participants across the country, and Meghalaya will participate through its citizens that take the pledge and promote it on social media.
Multiple events will be hosted across the state, organised by sports associations, schools, and district administrations for all to participate. Additionally, the state government departments will also be participating in activities such as football, cycling, walkathons, and basketball, and will celebrate the week by reporting to work in activewear. The government will also be encouraging a cycle/walk to work day, which will be announced shortly.
Similar events will also be announced and organised by the NYKS and SAI in the state, organising various events encouraging participation amongst their members and the wider public, said a statement from department of sports and youth affairs.
The marquee events organised by the department will be on the August 26 and August 29. On the August 26, the ‘Run for Fitness’ event will be hosted in Shillong. A 5 km circuit beginning at Polo Grounds, the event will include participants of all ages and is free entry to participate. Interested runners would register through the office of the district sports officer, East Khasi Hills.
On August 29, cash awards to eligible applicants would be distributed, as well as short cultural event would be hosted. The day will culminate in an exhibition match between the state’s officers and MLAs of the state, hosted at the MFA Ground, part of the JN Stadium Complex, the statement added.
Sharing his views, Meghalaya sports and youth affairs minister Shakliar Warjri, said: “Sports can bring communities together and help us all strive towards a better world, like few things can. The National Sports Day is a great reminder of this, and I encourage all of Meghalaya, in their own way, to participate in the activities and spread the joy of sport!”
India celebrates National Sports Day on August 29 every year. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, a great hockey player known as the ‘Wizard of Hockey’ due to his remarkable abilities on the pitch.
