SHILLONG, FEB 11: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday inaugurated the Nokrek Skate Park at Tura Government College under the Sports Infrastructure Development initiative, aimed at strengthening sports infrastructure and enhancing youth engagement in West Garo Hills.
The skate park has been developed as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Decathlon and implemented by OneStage in collaboration with Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE). The facility is designed to promote alternative sports and provide a dedicated recreational space for young people in the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister acknowledged the efforts of Tura Government College, local stakeholders and partner organisations in completing the project. Recalling that he had laid the foundation stone nearly a year ago, he said, “There is satisfaction in seeing the completion of a project for which the foundation stone has been laid. It gives me pleasure to be present for both occasions.”
Speaking on his approach to governance, Sangma remarked, “I believe in development that we can feel, not merely hear about or see on paper,” adding that seeing students actively use the facility reflected the true purpose of such initiatives.
He noted that many young skateboarders often practise in public spaces due to the lack of dedicated infrastructure and expressed hope that the new facility would address this gap. Emphasising the need to provide constructive avenues for youth, he said, “It is not enough to tell our youth what not to do. We must also provide them with alternatives and create the necessary ecosystem and opportunities for them to pursue their interests.”
The Chief Minister further observed the growing interest in skateboarding across the State and suggested that similar facilities could be developed in other areas. He also proposed the possibility of organising local and State-level competitions in the future to encourage participation and nurture talent.
The programme began with a welcome song by students of Tura Government College. West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal and Superintendent of Police Abraham T. Sangma were present, along with officials of the district administration, faculty members, students and representatives of Decathlon and partner organisations.
Representatives of Decathlon reiterated their commitment to supporting grassroots sports development through CSR initiatives, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the government and private stakeholders in expanding access to sports infrastructure.
The Nokrek Skate Park is expected to serve as a dedicated hub for skateboarding enthusiasts in Tura and adjoining areas.
