Nongpoh, Aug. 3: Ri Bhoi district achieved a major milestone in sports infrastructure on Monday with the inauguration of its first-ever artificial turf football ground at Umbuda village.

The facility was inaugurated by Meghalaya Cabinet Minister and Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun in the presence of Nongpoh MLA Mayral Born Syiem, who attended as the guest of honour.

Also present at the inaugural programme were Nongpoh MDC Rona Khymdeit, Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Saini, Superintendent of Police Giri Prasad, District Sports Officer Bobby Nongbet, local dignitaries and a large number of residents.

Constructed at a cost of ₹10.93 crore under the State Fund, the artificial turf ground is expected to provide a major boost to football and sports development in the district.

Officials informed that the facility will be managed by a committee comprising representatives from Mawroh and Umbuda villages, with the Deputy Commissioner serving as its Chairman. The committee will be responsible for the maintenance and management of the ground to ensure it remains a quality sporting venue for aspiring athletes.

Speaking on the occasion, Sosthenes Sohtun, who also holds the Community and Rural Development portfolio, expressed satisfaction over the completion of the project and thanked everyone involved in making the facility a reality.

He said the artificial turf would serve as an important training ground for young footballers and play a key role in nurturing sporting talent in Ri Bhoi district.

The minister also thanked the MDA-II Government for its commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, describing the project as a significant investment in the future of the district’s youth by providing them with modern facilities to pursue football and other sporting activities.

The inaugural programme concluded with a friendly exhibition football match between the MLA XI and the Officers XI, with the Officers XI defeating the MLA XI 3-1.