The Department of Tourism Meghalaya hosted an event at Orchid Lake Resort to recognise grassroots contributors and strengthen the state’s tourism ecosystem through new initiatives, funding support and tourism infrastructure projects.
A major highlight of the event was the rollout of support under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, which aims to create 3,000 new homestays and generate over 15,000 jobs by 2028. Sanction letters were distributed to the initial cohort of approved applicants under the scheme.
The government also announced financial support under the Community-Led Tourism Infrastructure Scheme, with up to ₹3.40 crore allocated for 58 new beneficiaries. The scheme provides grants ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹20 lakh based on tourist footfall, in addition to the ₹10 lakh grants already awarded to 20 ongoing projects.
The event further recognised beneficiaries of the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) Homestay Scheme, under which ₹115.68 crore has been sanctioned and ₹102 crore disbursed to more than 900 beneficiaries so far. The state’s top ten performing homestay hosts were awarded cash prizes of ₹20,000 each.
Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya, said Meghalaya is now firmly on the tourism map of the country and the global scenario. He noted that every stakeholder has played a positive part in the transformation seen today. He added that the State is clear that tourism is not just about a single event, or one cultural program; it can only thrive when a complete ecosystem is in place.
He added that runway expansion work at Shillong Airport is expected to be completed within the next 15 months, strengthening regional connectivity. Sangma also highlighted upcoming tourism projects including the Shillong Ropeway, the Rain Museum in Mawsynram and new tourism centres in locations such as Sohra.
He stated, “We are here to work for you, and this government always ensures that we keep the people first.”
Timothy D Shira, Tourism Minister of Meghalaya, said tourism has emerged as a key driver of the state’s economy, with tourist footfall reaching approximately 18 lakh visitors. He noted that over 150 tourism projects are currently being implemented across Meghalaya with significant public and private sector investment.
The event also focused on capacity building and hospitality training, with scholarships awarded to students of the Institute of Hotel Management under the Chief Minister Hospitality Scheme, along with the announcement of annual stipend scholarships for IHM students.
In another key development, sanctions were announced for the construction, modification and upgradation of toilets at tourist sites across the state to improve visitor experiences.
During the event, the Chief Minister also presented a bravery award to Teiborlang Pakma for his contribution and courage in serving society.
Beneficiary Daminot Kharshandi shared that support under the Chief Minister Homestay Scheme helped him establish and expand his business, while Meghalaya’s tourism branding initiatives contributed to stronger visitor footfall and revenue growth.
The state government said the initiatives are aimed at creating inclusive tourism growth while generating employment opportunities and supporting local entrepreneurship across Meghalaya.
