NEW DELHI: In a high-level meeting held in the national capital, a delegation from Meghalaya led by Cabinet Minister and BJP MLA Sanbor Shullai has proposed a transformative vision for Shillong, centred on converting the existing CRPF Camp at Mawlai into a world-class Cultural Heritage Traditional Market.
The proposal was presented during discussions with Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The delegation, which included the State BJP President and senior party leaders, outlined a series of initiatives aimed at preserving indigenous identity, promoting cultural tourism, and generating sustainable livelihoods.
At the core of the proposal is the relocation of the CRPF Camp to pave the way for the Mawlai Heritage Market, envisioned as a premier cultural destination showcasing the traditions, crafts, cuisines, and diversity of the entire North-East region. The market is intended to serve as both a cultural landmark and an economic engine for local communities.
Union Minister Shekhawat has been formally invited to visit Mawlai for an on-site assessment of the proposed project and its potential to emerge as a flagship cultural tourism hub for Meghalaya.
The discussions also emphasized the need for dedicated central schemes to preserve and promote indigenous faith systems, including Niam Tynrai—represented by Seng Khasi and Sein Raid—and the Songsarek way of life of the Garo community.
Additionally, for the South Shillong constituency, Shullai pressed for the development of a major ropeway project, aimed at improving tourism infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and creating employment opportunities for local youth.
The proposed transformation of the Mawlai CRPF land is being viewed as a landmark initiative that could redefine Shillong’s cultural landscape. By reimagining a security installation as a vibrant heritage hub, the project seeks to strengthen cultural pride while positioning Mawlai as a must-visit destination on the national and international tourism map.
