Recently, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma announced that over 210 tourism infrastructure projects worth ₹3,625 crore are currently being implemented across Meghalaya, underscoring the government’s commitment to making tourism a key driver of the state’s economy. The chief minister said that the tourism sector has witnessed remarkable transformation in recent years as a result of focused policies and strategic planning.
“We have realized the immense opportunities in this sector in terms of employment generation and also in terms of the competitive advantage that we as a state have,” Shri Sangma said. In 2024 alone, Meghalaya recorded 16 lakh domestic and 2.3 lakh international tourist arrivals — figures that, he said, reflect the positive and sustainable growth of tourism in the state.
Highlighting tourism’s role in job creation, the Chief Minister shared that nearly 50,000 people are currently employed, directly or indirectly, in the sector, and the government aims to generate an additional 50,000 jobs in the coming years. He emphasized that Meghalaya’s economic growth will be anchored not only in tourism, but also in agriculture, industry, and information technology, ensuring holistic development for its citizens.
A major focus of the government’s tourism strategy is expanding accommodation capacity through the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, which aims to build 3,000 new homestays, adding 6,000 rooms by 2028. The scheme offers a 70% subsidy and grants of up to ₹2 lakh for eligible entrepreneurs. These homestays will also serve as accommodation during the National Games 2027, after which they will be available to tourists — an approach that eliminates the need for a conventional Games Village and prevents post-event infrastructure challenges.
The chief minister also announced that the Government of India, through the Ministry of DoNER, has sanctioned an additional ₹260 crore under PM-DevINE for the development of tourism in Sohra and nearby areas. On improving accessibility, he shared that the Umroi Airport extension is expected to be completed by early 2027, enabling the landing of larger aircraft and enhancing connectivity to Meghalaya.
Sangma also elaborated on the concept of a “concert economy,” a model that blends tourism with cultural and entertainment events. He noted that in 2024–25, the government invested ₹23.5 crore in organizing concerts and festivals, generating an estimated ₹133.43 crore in overall revenue. “We have been able to brand ourselves as a destination where world-renowned artists want to perform. This not only boosts tourism but adds significantly to our local economy,” he said.
Emphasizing visitor experience as the cornerstone of tourism growth, the chief minister said, “All efforts to create an ecosystem for tourism will be meaningless if tourists do not have a happy, safe, and memorable experience. It is the responsibility of every stakeholder to ensure that every visitor leaves Meghalaya with pleasant memories.”
To further enhance visitor safety and convenience, Sangma launched the Meghalaya Tourism Helpline — 1800-599-2026 — the first of its kind in India. Available in seven languages, the helpline will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., providing reliable information and assistance to travellers. He also unveiled the revamped Meghalaya Tourism website, a user-friendly platform offering itinerary suggestions, travel tips, accommodation and transport booking, festival calendars, and shopping recommendations.
The chief minister also flagged off 10 new vehicles under the Meghalaya PRIME Tourism Vehicle Scheme, benefiting the next batch of successful applicants. Recipients of the Community-led Tourism Infrastructure Scheme were also felicitated for their contributions to grassroots tourism development at an event in Shillong.
Through these initiatives, the government envisions a resilient and inclusive tourism ecosystem that not only strengthens the state’s economy but also ensures that Meghalaya continues to shine as one of India’s most sustainable and welcoming destinations.