Reported by Roopak Goswami
Shillong: In a continued push towards strengthening the State’s tourism sector and recognising grassroots contributors, the Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, today hosted a grand event to celebrate the empowerment of ‘Tourism Champions’ at the Orchid Lake Resort, Umiam.
A key highlight of the event was the expansive rollout of government support for the local tourism ecosystem. Under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, which targets the creation of 3,000 new homestays and over 15,000 jobs by 2028, sanction letters were distributed to the initial cohort of approved applicants.
Furthermore, the Community-Led Tourism Infrastructure Scheme has announced up to Rs 3.40 crore in funding for 58 new beneficiaries, providing tiered grants ranging from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 20 lakh based on site footfall, building upon the Rs 10 lakh grants already awarded to 20 existing projects.
The event also felicitated the success of the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) Homestay Scheme, which has sanctioned Rs 115.68 crore and disbursed Rs 102 crore for over 900 beneficiaries to date, by awarding a Rs 20,000 cash prize to each of the state’s top ten performing hosts.
In his keynote address, Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, said that Meghalaya is now firmly on the tourism map of the country and the global scenario. He noted that every stakeholder has played a positive role in the transformation seen today.
He added that the State is clear that tourism is not just about a single event or one cultural programme; it can only thrive when a complete ecosystem is in place.
He further noted that the runway expansion work at Umroi Airport will be completed in the next 15 months, strengthening connectivity. He emphasised that it is important for the State to be present and visible to provide visitors with an experience of a lifetime.
While massive change has taken place over the last eight years, the sector’s expansion will prioritise job creation, livelihoods, and individual growth through local entrepreneurs and homestays.
He reaffirmed that over the next two to three years, the tourism sector will witness a massive transformation with the implementation of several iconic projects, including the Shillong Ropeway, the Rain Museum in Mawsynram, and new tourism centres across locations like Sohra.
Reaffirming the government’s core philosophy, he stated, “We are here to work for you, and this government always ensures that we keep the people first.”
Timothy D. Shira, Minister of Tourism, said that tourism in Meghalaya has transformed into a powerful driver of economic growth and a strong pillar of the State’s economy, indicating tourist footfall of 18 lakh and rising.
He emphasized that this progress is the result of a structured approach focusing on infrastructure, connectivity, and investment, highlighting the current implementation of over 150 tourism projects backed by thousands of crores and strong private sector participation.
Furthermore, he noted the ongoing development of Ummiam as a global tourist destination in line with the ‘Viksit Bharat’ roadmap, alongside the establishment of a dedicated Destination Management Organisation (DMO).
Further focusing on capacity building and youth empowerment within the hospitality sector, certifications for full-course scholarships were handed out to Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) students under the Chief Minister Hospitality Scheme, complemented by the announcement of yearly stipend scholarships for IHM students.
In one of the most poignant moments of the day, the Chief Minister also presented the ‘Bravery Award’ to Teiborlang Pakma (Tourist Buddy) for his exceptional courage and selflessness in society.
The event also emphasised improving visitor experience with the sanction for construction, modification, and upgradation of toilets at tourist sites across the State.
Sharing his experience, Daminot Kharshandi, a beneficiary of the Chief Minister Homestay Scheme, said the scheme provided the crucial financial confidence to launch his business, which he has successfully expanded.
He added that the State’s robust “Meghalaya Tourism” branding policy has been instrumental in driving steady footfall and revenue.
By harnessing the potential of tourism and empowering citizens, Meghalaya is promoting inclusivity and creating a long-term foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future.