Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday stressed that tourism in Meghalaya can thrive only through coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, while addressing the “Empowerment of Tourism Champions of Meghalaya” event at Orchid Lake, Umiam.
Organised by the state Tourism Department, the programme brought together entrepreneurs, artisans, students, community leaders, and beneficiaries, showcasing initiatives in community-based tourism, infrastructure, skill development, and livelihood generation.
Sangma said tourism cannot succeed through isolated efforts, adding that Meghalaya is steadily building a strong tourism ecosystem. He emphasised the need to make the state both visible and attractive to travellers, supported by quality infrastructure, connectivity, safety, and visitor experience. “Every tourist should leave with memories of a lifetime,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing projects, he listed the Shillong Ropeway, Mawkdok Skywalk, Rain Museum in Mawsynram, Living Root Bridge Museum, and tourism centres in Sohra, Mandalgre, and Siju. He also announced progress on the Shillong Airport expansion, with runway work awarded by the Government of India and expected completion in about 15 months, enabling larger aircraft operations.