Raksha Khadse reviews sports, livelihood projects in Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills
Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse on Wednesday reviewed sports infrastructure and rural livelihood initiatives in Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills district under the Centre’s Poorvottar Sampark Setu initiative, saying the programme is strengthening engagement between the Centre and the North East.
During her visit to Williamnagar, Khadse inspected key sports facilities, including the Artificial Football Turf at the RGHSS Playground and the under-construction Khelo India Multipurpose Indoor Hall at Tambo A’ding. The review focused on improving grassroots sporting infrastructure and creating better opportunities for young athletes in the region.
The minister also assessed initiatives related to fisheries and animal husbandry, highlighting the importance of sustainable livelihood generation and rural economic development in the North Eastern region. Discussions centred on improving productivity, strengthening local capacities and expanding economic opportunities for communities dependent on these sectors.
“The North Eastern Region occupies a central place in the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inclusive and balanced development. Through initiatives such as Poorvottar Sampark Setu, we are ensuring closer engagement with local communities and district administrations to better understand regional priorities,” Khadse said during the visit.
She added that the government remains committed to strengthening sports infrastructure, promoting sustainable livelihoods and preserving the region’s rich handicraft traditions to ensure development reaches the grassroots level.
As part of the tour, Khadse also visited centres showcasing local handicrafts and traditional products of East Garo Hills, appreciating the artisanal skills and cultural heritage of the region. She stressed the need to improve market linkages and support self-help groups and local artisans.
The minister was accompanied by East Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner R.P. Marak and Superintendent of Police Pawar Swapnil Vasantrao, along with senior district officials, who briefed her on ongoing developmental projects and district priorities.
The visit was conducted under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region’s Poorvottar Sampark Setu initiative, aimed at strengthening Centre-State coordination and accelerating inclusive development across the North East.
