CM Conrad Sangma Warns Negative Narratives Could Harm Meghalaya Tourism Brand

Speaking at the Tourism Department’s “Empowerment of Tourism Champions of Meghalaya” programme held at Orchid Lake Resort, Sangma said that while concerns should be addressed, discussions must remain constructive and forward-looking. “The focus should be on creating opportunities, not limiting them,” he said, urging stakeholders to align with the broader vision of long-term growth, employment generation, and sustainable livelihoods.

The Chief Minister lauded stakeholders for placing Meghalaya prominently on the national and increasingly global tourism map, emphasizing that the sector’s growth is the result of collective effort. “Every stakeholder—from the government to entrepreneurs such as hotel owners, transport providers and service staff—has a role in transforming the sector,” he said.

While acknowledging visible progress in recent years, he cautioned that the journey is still at an early stage. Despite challenges, he noted, entrepreneurs and stakeholders have contributed positively to the sector’s advancement.

Highlighting the government’s approach, Sangma stressed that tourism development goes beyond events or individual establishments and requires a well-developed ecosystem. He pointed out that travel decisions are often made quickly, making it essential for Meghalaya to remain visible and appealing through effective planning and marketing.

He underlined the importance of infrastructure, connectivity, safety, and overall visitor experience, adding that meeting tourists’ expectations remains a key challenge. Small gestures such as hospitality and kindness, he said, can leave lasting impressions and help differentiate Meghalaya from other destinations.

The Chief Minister reiterated that tourism initiatives should be viewed in terms of job creation and long-term economic growth, cautioning again that negative remarks could impact the state’s image.

He highlighted several upcoming projects—including the Shillong Ropeway, a skywalk at Mawkdok, the Rain Museum at Mawsynram, and tourism hubs in Sohra and Siju—which are expected to significantly boost the sector over the next two to three years.

Sangma further informed that the Shillong airport runway expansion project has been awarded and is likely to be completed within 15 months, enabling operations of larger aircraft.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira said tourism has emerged as a key pillar of Meghalaya’s economy, with provisional figures indicating around 18 lakh visitors in 2025. He added that more than 150 tourism projects are currently underway across the state, involving investments worth thousands of crores.

Shira also announced the establishment of a dedicated Destination Management Organisation aimed at strengthening destination planning, visitor management, and service standards.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, along with Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, MLA of Umsning Dr. C. Lyngdoh, MLA of Mawhati Charles Marngar, and Adviser to the Tourism Department Lambor Malngiang, presented approval letters to beneficiaries of the Chief Minister Meghalaya Homestay Mission, the Community-Led Infrastructure Scheme, and the Prime Tourism Vehicle Scheme. Scholarship certificates were also awarded to students of the Institute of Hotel Management under the Chief Minister Hospitality Scheme.