Shillong: In a continued push towards strengthening the
State’s tourism sector and recognise grassroots contributors, the Department
of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya today hosted a grand event to celebrate
the empowerment of ‘Tourism Champions’ at the Orchid Lake Resort, Umiam.
A key highlight of the event was
the expansive rollout of Government support for the local tourism ecosystem. Under
the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, which targets the
creation of 3,000 new homestays and over 15,000 jobs by 2028,
sanction letters were distributed to the initial cohort out of approved
applications.
Furthermore, the Community-Led
Tourism Infrastructure Scheme has announced up to ₹3.40 crore in
funding for 58 new beneficiaries, providing tiered grants ranging from ₹5
lakh to ₹20 lakh based on site footfall, building upon the ₹10
lakh grants already awarded to 20 existing projects.
The event also felicitated the
success of the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) Homestay
Scheme, which has sanctioned ₹115.68 crore and disbursed ₹102
crore for over 900 beneficiaries to date, by awarding a ₹20,000 cash
prize to each of the State's top ten performing hosts.
In his keynote address, Shri
Conrad K. Sangma, Hon’ble 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.
Further he noted, the runway
expansion work at the Umroi Airport will be complete in next 15 months
strengthening connectivity. He emphasized that it is important for the State to
be present and visible to bring an experience of a lifetime to visitors. While
massive change has taken place over the last eight years, the sector's
expansion will prioritize job creation, livelihoods, and individual growth
through local entrepreneurs and homestays. He reaffirmed that over the next two
to three years, the tourism sector will witness a massive transformation with
the implementation of several iconic projects, including the Shillong Ropeway,
the Rain Museum in Mawsynram, and new tourism centres across locations like
Sohra. Reaffirming the government’s core philosophy, he stated, “We are here
to work for you, and this government always ensures that we keep the people
first.”
Shri Timothy D. Shira, Hon’ble
Minister of Tourism, said, that tourism in Meghalaya has transformed into a
powerful driver of economic growth and a strong pillar of the State's economy, indicating
a tourist footfall of 18 lakhs and rising. He emphasized that this progress is
the result of a structured approach focusing on infrastructure, connectivity,
and investment, highlighting the current implementation of over 150 tourism
projects backed by thousands of crores and strong private sector participation.
Furthermore, he noted the ongoing development of Umiam as a global tourist
destination in line with the 'Viksit Bharat' roadmap, alongside the
establishment of a dedicated Destination Management Organization (DMO).
Further focusing on capacity
building and youth empowerment within the hospitality sector. Certifications
for full-course scholarships were handed out to Institute of Hotel
Management (IHM) students under the Chief Minister Hospitality Scheme,
complemented by the announcement of yearly stipend scholarships for IHM
students.
In one of the most poignant
moments of the day, the Hon’ble Chief Minister also presented the ‘Bravery
award’ to Mr. Teiborlang Pakma (Toursist Buddy) for his exceptional
courage and selflessness in the society.
The event also saw emphasis on
improving the visitor experiences with the sanction for construction,
modification, and upgradation of toilets at tourist sites across the State.
Sharing his experience, Mr. Daminot
Kharshandi a beneficiary of the Chief Minister Homestay Scheme, said the Homestay
Scheme provided the crucial financial confidence to launch his business, which
he has successfully expanded. He added that the State's robust "Meghalaya
Tourism" branding policy has been instrumental in driving the steady
footfall and revenue.
By harnessing the potential of
tourism and empowering the citizens, Meghalaya is promoting inclusivity and
creating a long-term foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future.