Meghalaya Inaugurates New Skate Park to Promote Youth Sports

On February 12, 2026, Meghalaya's Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, officially opened the Nokrek Skate Park located at Tura Government College. This new facility is expected to offer a safe and dedicated space for young skateboarders and sports enthusiasts in the area. The skate park was developed as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project by Decathlon, a well-known sports goods company. The company worked closely with local organizations to create a space that encourages sports and outdoor activities among young people. The implementation of the project was carried out by OneStage, a local organization, in cooperation with the Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE). This collaboration aimed to bring expertise and resources together to make the skate park a reality. This new facility is designed to promote alternative sports, especially skateboarding, in the West Garo Hills area. It aims to help institutionalize a culture of sports beyond traditional activities, encouraging more youth to participate in active recreation. Before the park was built, young people who wanted to skate had to use public spaces, which were not always safe or suitable for such activities. The new skate park offers a dedicated recreational area where they can practice and improve their skills in a safe environment. As of February 2026, the government has not confirmed any plans for constructing a similar skate park in the Garo Hills region. However, the opening of this new facility marks an important step in promoting sports culture and providing recreational options for young residents. The inauguration of the Nokrek Skate Park is a significant move toward supporting youth activities and safe sports facilities in Meghalaya. Government officials and community members hope that it will inspire more young people to develop their talents and pursue active lifestyles. This project highlights how partnerships between the corporate sector, non-governmental organizations, and local authorities can work together to improve community infrastructure. It also emphasizes the importance of creating safe and accessible spaces for sports and recreation. The skate park at Tura is expected to become a popular spot for youth and help foster a culture of sports and healthy living in the region. Such initiatives can contribute to positive social development and promote active lifestyles among the young population in Meghalaya.