On September 2, Meghalaya hosted a pivotal tourism summit aimed at enhancing travel and tourism across the Northeast and Eastern states of India. The conference, chaired by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, brought together tourism ministers and representatives from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The summit, the third in a series of regional consultations, focused on collaborative efforts to develop world-class tourism destinations and improve the overall travel experience. Minister Shekhawat highlighted ambitious plans under the Swadesh Darshan scheme and discussed the revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0, which emphasizes sustainable tourism across 57 destinations. He also noted the success of the PRASAD scheme in developing pilgrimage sites, with 46 projects worth ₹1,624 crore initiated to date.
Shekhawat praised the participating states for their ambitious targets and competitive spirit, stating, “I must appreciate the enthusiasm of the states. Every state has developed a target.” He encouraged states to submit proposals for various tourism sectors, including spiritual, cultural, and eco-tourism, and revealed plans to enhance the Incredible India website.
Meghalaya’s Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh showcased the state’s unique attractions, such as the UNESCO-recognized Mawmluh Cave and its stunning landscapes. Lyngdoh emphasized the importance of community involvement in tourism, saying, “While these natural wonders define tourism in our State, the true essence of Meghalaya lies in the warmth and hospitality of our people.” He added that community involvement is central to their tourism efforts, aiming to empower local communities and promote sustainable practices.
Despite its growing popularity, Meghalaya faces challenges like overtourism and infrastructure limitations. The state government is focusing on sustainable tourism practices and distributing visitors more evenly across the region. The tourism sector is a significant economic driver for Meghalaya, employing over 50,000 residents and attracting ₹465 crore in investments over the past three years.
