Shillong: The Meghalaya government has committed Rs 840.29 crore to significantly enhance the state’s tourism infrastructure, aiming to position Meghalaya as a premier high-value destination that promotes sustainable and responsible tourism.
The initiative is designed to benefit both visitors and local communities.
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Meghalaya tourism minister Paul Lyngdoh, speaking during a discussion in the state assembly on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of tourism to Meghalaya’s economy.
He noted that approximately 50,000 people in the state depend directly or indirectly on the tourism sector for their livelihoods.
“Tourism is a cornerstone of our economy. Recognizing its potential, the state government is dedicated to fostering growth in this sector to generate employment, stimulate economic activity, and improve the overall quality of life for our citizens,” Lyngdoh stated.
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Lyngdoh outlined the government’s strategy to establish Meghalaya as a leading destination for niche tourism markets, including adventure, experiential, and cultural tourism.
“Tourism is a significant job creator and multiplier, with the potential to be a major contributor to our Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). To achieve our goals, we must create high-quality tourism infrastructure across both established and emerging circuits,” he said.
This includes the development of new accommodations, improved access to scenic locations, and enhanced visitor experiences.
To support this vision, the state has initiated the Meghalaya Eco Tourism Infrastructure Development project, an externally aided project under the New Development Bank, with a budget of Rs 730 crore.
This project aims to build iconic infrastructure at key tourist destinations like Sohra, Shillong, and Tura.
Additionally, Rs 60.29 crore has been secured under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme for the development of the Meghalayan Age Cave Experience and Waterfalls Trails in Sohra.
Further funding includes Rs 50 crore from the Ministry of Tourism under the Challenge-Based Destination Development, a sub-scheme of Swadesh Darshan 2.0.
This funding is intended to enhance the overall tourism experience in Meghalaya, focusing on creating new and unique offerings for both domestic and international visitors.
Lyngdoh highlighted that locations such as Ialong, Syntu Ksiar, Krang Suri, Shnongpdeng, Darrang, and Iooksi in the Jaintia Hills are rapidly becoming popular destinations.
The government has also launched several new initiatives to improve the tourism experience, including the Meghalaya Homestays Scheme. In collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), this scheme offers up to 70% subsidy for Rs 10 lakh projects to promote homestays and encourage community participation in tourism.
To date, 633 homestays have been sanctioned under this scheme.