Tourism continues to be a key growth engine for Meghalaya, generating ₹133.43 crore in revenue and providing employment to nearly 50,000 people. These figures were highlighted during the state-level World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations at Courtyard by Marriott, Shillong, with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma as the Chief Guest. Tourism Commissioner & Secretary Dr. Vijay Kumar and Director of Tourism B. Pakynteiñ, MCS, were also present.

 

The Chief Minister underlined tourism’s role in transforming Meghalaya’s economy and urged citizens to collaborate with the government to promote the state as a safe and welcoming destination. In 2024, Meghalaya received 2.3 lakh international and domestic tourists, along with 16 lakh local visitors.

 

Tourism has already created 50,000 jobs, with plans to add another 50,000 in the coming years. To support this growth, the government has approved 210 tourism projects worth ₹73,625 crore, including efforts to double homestay capacity from 3,000 to 6,000 rooms by 2028 under a 70% subsidy scheme.

 

Infrastructure development is also underway, with the Ministry of DoNER sanctioning ₹260 crore under the PM-DevINE programme to enhance Sohra (Cherrapunjee) and its surroundings. Expansion work at Umroi Airport is expected to accommodate larger aircraft by 2027.

 

The state is also investing in cultural industries, allocating ₹23.5 crore in FY 2024-25 to support local musicians, performers, and festivals—initiatives that directly contributed to the tourism revenue milestone.

 

During the event, Chief Minister Sangma launched the Meghalaya Tourism Helpline (1800-599-2026), India’s first multilingual tourism helpline offering support in seven languages from 8 AM to 8 PM daily. He also unveiled the revamped Meghalaya Tourism Website and flagged off 10 vehicles under the PRIME Tourism Vehicle Scheme.