In 2024, Meghalaya had an unparalleled increase in tourism, with almost 16 lakh tourists visiting the state. This milestone was announced by Cyril V. Darlong Diengdoh, Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, along with a number of ground-breaking projects that will improve the state’s tourism infrastructure. For the development of two significant tourist information centers, one in Mawphlang and one in Nartiang, the Indian government has approved a sizeable budget of Rs 50 crore. Diengdoh stated, “We have been approved for Rs 25 crore for each project,” highlighting the Center’s dedication to enhancing Meghalaya’s tourism industry.
Diengdoh also revealed that the Swadesh Darshan Challenge Scheme had approved further projects. “In actuality, the Indian government has approved two additional projects under the Swadesh Darshan Challenge Scheme, each of which has been allotted Rs 25 crore. The money will be utilized to build tourist information centers, eateries, and a gallery at the sacred woods of Mawphlang and Nartiang, which is home to the renowned monoliths and the venerated Durga Shakti Peeth,” he said.
Now, the projects are in the critical stage of implementation. “We are now working on them and putting them up to bid. Based on the DPR’s readiness, we sent it to the Ministry of Tourism. We will shortly begin the tendering process because the Ministry approved these projects, which cost Rs 25 crore apiece, only before the fiscal year ended,” he continued.