SHILLONG, June 10: Tourism-led growth has emerged as a key pillar of Meghalaya’s development, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal said on Tuesday.
“The boom in tourism in Meghalaya is a positive sign as Meghalaya has become a destination of choice for most domestic as well as international tourists visiting India,” Sonowal said.
Noting that Meghalaya is a gift of Mother Earth, the Union Minister said, “We must celebrate her with utmost sincerity and ensure sustainable development through harnessing the immense possibilities in the tourism sector.”
Sonowal informed that the Modi-led government has sanctioned Rs. 244 crore under Swadesh Darshan to boost sustainable tourism in Meghalaya.
Moreover, he said the central government has created potential in iconic destinations like Umiam Lake, Sohpetbneng, Krang Suri Falls, Siju Caves, and Nokrek Reserve are being transformed into world-class tourist attractions.
From waterfall trails to the Meghalayan Age Cave Experience, he said the focus on sustainable and immersive tourism has revitalised local economies and created livelihood opportunities.
“Spiritual and heritage sites like Nartiang and Mawphlang villages are also being promoted under niche tourism categories, positioning Meghalaya as a vibrant destination within India’s Northeast tourism circuit,” Sonowal said.
On centre’s fiscal aid to Meghalaya, the Union Minister said, Meghalaya, backed by a 105 per cent increase in central grants-in-aid, has seen a substantial scale-up in infrastructure & social welfare.
He said the landmark initiatives include the Rs. 22,864 crore Greenfield High-Speed Corridor between Mawlyngkhung & Panchgram, set to drastically improve regional connectivity and logistics.
“Over 540 km of National Highways have been constructed, and urban mobility projects in New Shillong and Tura are being implemented under PM-DevINE,” Sonowal said.
About welfare interventions such as post-metric scholarships for over 76,000 SC/ST/OBC students, Rs. 2,331 crore disbursed under MUDRA loans, and a threefold increase in National Health Mission (NHM)funding have empowered communities across Meghalaya.
“These milestones reflect the Modi government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development, economic empowerment, and regional integration of the Northeast,” he said.
(UNI)
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