Shillong, Aug 1: Bollywood actor and NorthEast United FC co-owner John Abraham today said that he wants to see the next global football star to emerge from the North East as he urged youngsters to stay away from substance abuse and pursue discipline through sports and fitness.
A drugs awareness programme, organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), was held here yesterday under the theme ‘Pulse of the Hills: Every Beat Against Drugs’. It brought together students, recovering drug users and government officials.
During an interactive session with students, Abraham spoke about the importance of discipline, fitness and sports in steering young people away from drugs. Expressing his affection for Shillong and the North East, he described the region as a “hotbed of football” and said he believes it has the potential to produce world-class footballers.
“I want to see a Ronaldo or a Messi coming from the Northeast,” Abraham said, while encouraging students to resist peer pressure and lead substance-free lives.
He also thanked the Chief Minister for his support towards the development of sports in the state. With the government’s help, NorthEast United is constructing a football academy in New Shillong that is expected to be ready within the next two years.
The Meghalaya government allotted 15 acres of land for an NEUFC residential academy back in 2024.
Echoing Abraham’s message, Adviser to the Social Welfare Department, Paul Lyngdoh, said that the state is making growing investments in sports and youth development. Referring to the upcoming football academy, the proposed football stadium in Mawkhanu and other youth-focused initiatives, he said Meghalaya is creating opportunities that can help young people realise their potential.
(DIPR photo)