Union Minister Raksha Khadse Visits SAI NEHU Centre to Boost Sports Development in Shillong

Union Minister Raksha Khadse recently visited the SAI NEHU Centre in Shillong, where she engaged with athletes and coaches while reviewing the sports infrastructure. Her visit aimed to enhance sports development in the North East, emphasizing the region's potential for nurturing elite athletes. Khadse participated in various sports activities, highlighting the importance of grassroots engagement. She also discussed the need for improved facilities and support systems to help young athletes excel on national and international platforms. This initiative is part of the Ministry's broader efforts to strengthen sports in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2026, 02:05 IST

Minister's Visit to SAI NEHU Centre

Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], May 28: Raksha Khadse, the Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, visited the Sports Authority of India (SAI) North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Centre in Shillong on Thursday. During her visit, she engaged with athletes, coaches, and officials while assessing the sports infrastructure and training facilities available at the centre.

Throughout her tour, Khadse explored various Field of Play (FoPs) facilities and observed the training sessions being conducted for athletes across different sports. She took the time to converse with coaches and young athletes, motivating them to strive for excellence through discipline, determination, and commitment, as stated in a press release.

The Minister also participated in several sporting activities, including trying her skills in Indian round archery and playing football with the athletes, underscoring the significance of grassroots sports involvement.

Khadse highlighted the crucial role of sports in developing confident, disciplined, and resilient youth, noting its potential as a catalyst for social development and national advancement.

She remarked, “The North East is rich in sporting talent and has a vibrant culture of sports participation. It is essential to enhance infrastructure, coaching resources, and athlete development pathways to enable more young athletes from this region to succeed on national and international stages.”

Emphasizing the unique benefits of the SAI NEHU Shillong centre, Khadse pointed out its potential to become a premier high-altitude training venue for elite athletes.

“This centre is well-suited for training elite athletes due to its stunning natural surroundings, tranquil atmosphere, and favorable weather conditions. With ongoing development and support, SAI NEHU Shillong can evolve into a key high-altitude training hub for athletes preparing for major competitions,” she added.

She further mentioned that sports not only enhance physical fitness and competitive skills but also play a vital role in fostering leadership, teamwork, and positive social interactions among youth.

Accompanying her during the visit were Rajnish Mishra, Assistant Director of the Sports Authority of India; John Kharshing, Working President of the Meghalaya Olympic Association; along with other officials, coaches, and support staff.

This visit is part of the Ministry's ongoing initiative to bolster sports infrastructure, athlete support systems, and grassroots sports development throughout the North East region.