SHILLONG: In a landmark move poised to reshape the region’s sporting landscape, the Meghalaya government, during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, has approved a 45-year lease of 19.998 acres of land at Mawkhanu to North East United FC (NEUFC) for the establishment of a state-of-the-art football academy.
Announcing the decision to the press, Sports Minister and Government Spokesperson Wailadmiki Shylla detailed that the club will relocate its entire management from Guwahati to Shillong, backed by a massive investment ranging between Rs 40 to Rs 50 crores.
The project will feature three dedicated football grounds, comprehensive accommodation facilities, and advanced infrastructure.
Consequently, future Indian Super League (ISL) matches, Durand Cup fixtures, and other marquee tournaments featuring NEUFC will now be hosted in Shillong, aligning with the ongoing construction of Meghalaya’s largest dedicated football stadium.
The partnership stems from long-standing discussions between the state and NEUFC owner and Bollywood actor John Abraham, who also serves as the brand ambassador for Meghalaya tourism, alongside connections like team captain and Meghalaya native Redeem Tlang.
Minister Shylla emphasized that this initiative addresses the critical need to elevate local prospects to international competitive standards, building upon the state’s existing grassroots framework.
Meghalaya currently operates nearly 125 grassroots football centers and maintains structured funding policies rewarding local clubs based on tier participation, including Rs 3 crores for I-League 1, Rs 1 crore for I-League 2, and Rs 50 lakhs for League 3, alongside historical grants such as Rs 3 crores to Shillong Lajong and Rs 30 lakhs to Mawlai.
Addressing potential apprehensions regarding preferential treatment.
Shylla firmly stated that the government’s doors remain wide open for any local team or entity willing to submit viable proposals for state backing.
The final lease agreement of 45 years represents a middle ground reached after extensive cabinet deliberations balancing an initial 30-year proposal with the club’s request for a 60-year tenure.
(4FrontMedia news)
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