On November 1, 2025, Union Minister for Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region (DoNER), Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, laid the foundation stone for the Integrated Sohra Tourism Circuit under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE) scheme in Sohra, Meghalaya. The ceremony, held in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Conrad Sangma and senior officials, also saw the launch of multiple DoNER projects worth ₹233 crore across the state.
Meghalaya: A “Heaven on Earth”
Describing Meghalaya as “a heaven on earth, the abode of clouds and cascading waterfalls,” Shri Scindia reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to promoting responsible, inclusive, and heritage-driven tourism in the Northeast. He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the past decade has ushered in a new era of transformation, turning the region from a “landlocked” area into a “land-linked powerhouse.”
Over the past years, the Northeast has received ₹6.2 lakh crore through the 10% Gross Budgetary Support policy, driving improvements in infrastructure, connectivity, and enterprise. Meghalaya, in particular, has emerged as one of the major beneficiaries, registering 12–16% growth in the post-COVID years, propelled by investments in air connectivity and tourism.
Among key developments, the 166.8 km Shillong–Silchar Greenfield Expressway (₹22,864 crore) and the expansion of Umroi Airport were cited as landmark projects enhancing accessibility. The upcoming New Shillong City is also envisioned as a “smart-green township” and a knowledge hub for the entire region.
Integrated Sohra Circuit: A Model for Responsible Tourism
Jointly conceptualised by the Ministry of DoNER and the Government of Meghalaya, the Integrated Sohra Circuit is one of the most ambitious tourism projects in the Northeast. With total investments exceeding ₹650 crore, including ₹221 crore from the Ministry of DoNER, the project aims to position Sohra (Cherrapunji) as a multi-day experiential tourism destination rooted in sustainability and local livelihoods.
At its heart will be the Sohra Experience Centre at Kutmadan, a ₹115 crore development designed to serve as the cultural nucleus of the circuit. The centre will feature amphitheatres, rain experience parks, art galleries, and craft pavilions celebrating Meghalaya’s rich tribal heritage.
Supporting components of the circuit include:
- Nohkalikai Falls precinct (₹26 crore)
- Mawsmai Eco Park (₹29 crore)
- Seven Sisters Falls Viewpoint
- Shella Riverside Development
- Wahkaliar Canyon with adventure tourism activities, including hot-air balloon rides
Together, these projects are expected to boost tourist spending sixfold and generate over 4,600 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Boost
Complementing the tourism circuit, several key infrastructure projects were inaugurated to enhance connectivity across Meghalaya:
- Pynursla–Latangriwan–Mawlynnong Road (₹29.97 crore) — to ensure all-weather access to Asia’s cleanest village and strengthen cross-border tourism.
- Mawshynrut–Hahim (Athiabari) Road (₹99.76 crore) — upgraded to intermediate lane standards to improve agricultural connectivity in western Meghalaya.
- Bridge over the Umngot River on Jongksha–Wahiajer Road (₹21.86 crore) — to link East Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills for better trade and mobility.
Shri Scindia also noted that the Umroi Airport runway extension and the upcoming Shillong Western Bypass will soon reduce travel time between Guwahati and Sohra to about four hours, significantly improving access to major tourism and trade hubs.
Empowering Local Communities
Emphasising community participation, Shri Scindia said the Sohra Circuit was designed so that “the first smile a tourist sees in Meghalaya becomes the first income earned by a local family.”
Skill development initiatives are already underway in collaboration with the Meghalaya Skills Development Society and IHM Shillong, focusing on training local youth in hospitality, safety management, and eco-tourism practices.
The Minister reaffirmed that the Ministry of DoNER is committed to inclusive growth that balances economic progress with environmental and cultural preservation.
Meghalaya: From Heritage to Hope
Concluding his address, Shri Scindia remarked, “Meghalaya stands today at the confluence of heritage and hope. These projects are not just about building infrastructure; they are about building futures.”
He expressed confidence that the collaboration between the Centre and the State Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, will help Meghalaya evolve into a connected, confident, and competitive state, playing a pivotal role in achieving Viksit Bharat @2047.