Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Smt. Raksha Khadse, today undertook a district review visit to Williamnagar in Meghalaya’s East Garo Hills district under the Poorvottar Sampark Setu initiative of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER).
Conceived by MDoNER to strengthen Centre-State coordination and deepen developmental outreach in the North Eastern Region, the initiative facilitates periodic visits of Union Ministers to assess implementation of government programmes, review local priorities on the ground, and engage closely with district administrations and communities.
Through such efforts, the Ministry continues to support inclusive development, infrastructure creation, livelihood promotion and stronger institutional coordination across the North East. During the visit, the Minister inspected sports facilities in the district and reviewed ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots sporting infrastructure.
She visited the Artificial Football Turf at RGHSS Playground, Williamnagar, and assessed facilities aimed at promoting sports participation and nurturing young talent in the region. The Minister also reviewed progress at the Khelo India Multipurpose Indoor Hall at Tambo A’ding, currently under construction, underscoring the Government’s commitment to expanding quality sports infrastructure in the North East.
Smt. Khadse further reviewed initiatives related to fisheries and animal husbandry, emphasizing the importance of sustainable livelihood generation and rural economic development in the region. Discussions focused on strengthening local capacities, improving productivity, and creating greater economic opportunities for communities dependent on these sectors.
Speaking during the visit, Smt. Raksha Khadse said, “The North Eastern Region occupies a central place in the vision of Prime Minister Shri 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.
I am encouraged to see the progress being made in strengthening sports infrastructure, promoting sustainable livelihoods through fisheries and animal husbandry, and preserving the rich handicraft traditions of East Garo Hills. The Government remains committed to ensuring that development reaches the grassroots and creates meaningful opportunities for youth and local communities.”
The Minister also visited facilities showcasing local handicraft materials and traditional products, appreciating the rich cultural heritage and artisanal skills of the people of East Garo Hills. She highlighted the need to promote indigenous craftsmanship and strengthen market linkages to support local artisans and self-help groups.
During the visit, Smt. Khadse was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner of East Garo Hills, Shri R. P. Marak, IAS, and Superintendent of Police, Shri Pawar Swapnil Vasantrao, IPS, along with senior district officials, who briefed her on ongoing developmental initiatives and district priorities.
The visit reflects the Government of India’s continued commitment to strengthening sports ecosystems, promoting rural livelihoods, and supporting local enterprise development across the North Eastern Region. It also underscores the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region’s sustained efforts to promote coordinated development and closer engagement between the Centre and the North Eastern States through initiatives such as Poorvottar Sampark Setu.