12th South Asian Games opens to a grand ceremony in Shillong February 6: The 12th South Asian Games 2016 witnessed a grand opening in Shillong on Saturday with an impressive crowd turnout at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma, Union Minister of State and Sports Affairs, Government of India, Sarbananda Sonowal, Vice Chairman of the Games Technical Coordination Committee, Indian Olympic Association, S. M. Bali, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, Zenith Sangma, contingents from all eight participating nations besides other dignitaries were present at the event. The show took off with the National Anthem, introduction of the South Asian Games theme song followed by a parade of the participating countries' athletes. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Chief Minister, Mukul Sangma extended his warmest greetings to all dignitaries and people of the state. I would like to welcome you to the capital of Meghalaya Shillong, the abode of clouds. This privilege of being able to host SAG is owed to the state governments of Assam and Meghalaya and most of all, to the Government of India for making it happen. It's a rare opportunity to see the flags of eight different nations being waved here at the JN Stadium," he said. The Chief Minister went on to say that the South Asian Games is a platform to bring in all neighbouring nations to India in the years to come. We are proud to share that North East India has come a long way to be able to host an event of this magnitude. We will definitely look forward to hosting many more international events in the years to come." He added, It is the role of all of us in Meghalaya to play great hosts to all visiting nations. I convey my best wishes to all the participants. May this 12th SAG be a grand success." The opening speech was made by the Vice Chairman of the Games Technical Coordination Committee, Indian Olympic Association, S. M. Bali who welcomed all present and wished glory and success to the participating countries. Union Minister of State and Sports Affairs, Government of India, Sarbananda Sonowal also spoke on the occasion saying that Shillong is a beautiful city with exceptional sporting infrastructure. The Union Minister of State and Sports Affairs added The South Asian Games will bring harmony, friendship, cooperation and unity to all South Asian nations. It is true that sports builds unity and oneness." Sonowal concluded by saying, People of the North East are friendly and known for their hospitality. To all contingents, I hope your experience will be a memorable one. I also extend my sincere appreciation to Mukul Sangma who has taken great pains to promote sports in Meghalaya. We are happy host the South Asian Games 2016." Meanwhile, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, Zenith Sangma said that host the 12th South Asian Games is a proud moment for both Shillong and Guwahati.
