Govt vows to make JH a major tourist destination

SHILLONG, Jan 17: Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Friday announced that the Jaintia Hills region will soon become a major tourist destination, especially with the state government according special emphasis towards the development of Meghalaya’s tourism section sector.
Addressing a gathering following the inauguration of the new extension building of CTC Orchid Inn (MTDC), Dhar said many residents of Ri-Lum Jaintia, in the past, were previously involved in coal mining and transportation.
He pointed out that Shillong is emerging as a top tourism destination globally and reiterated government’s commitment towards tourism sector. “I hope to see Jaintia Hills soon becoming a prominent tourist destination as well,” he said.
The deputy chief minister also highlighted the significance of the Tourism Convention Centre located near the Orchid, for which the government has allocated Rs 35 crore.
According to Dhar, this centre will greatly benefit tourists in Jaintia Hills, eliminating the need to travel to Shillong for accommodation and other amenities.
Dhar then shared details about the substantial budget allocated to the Tourism department for constructing resorts.
On the occasion, he also unveiled various development projects slated for implementation in Jaintia Hills and the state as a whole under the MDA government. Referring to the new extension building of CTC Orchid Inn (MTDC), Dhar said the new building would provide enhanced facilities for tourists.
The extension, he informed, includes 16 additional rooms and a conference room, located at Thadlaskein Mukhla in West Jaintia Hills district.
Meanwhile, Chairman of Orchid Inn, SK Lato, said that he took over the building in 2003 when it was in poor condition.
He said he had a vision for the growth of the tourism industry in Ri-Lum Jaintia, which inspired him renovate the building.
Lato expressed his gratitude to the village leaders of Mukhla and Khliehtyrshi Dorbar, as well as those who have passed away, for their support in improving Thadlaskeiñ Lake over the past 20 years and allowing the construction of Orchid Inn.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving progress, stating that “it requires mutual understanding when doing any good work”.
Highlighting the abundance of natural resources such as hills, rivers and forests, he exhorted the government to prioritise the development of the tourism industry in Meghalaya.
Lato argued that promoting tourism will not only increase income but also create job opportunities for the youths.
Meanwhile, Jowai local MLA, Wailadmiki Shylla, commended Lato for transforming CTC Orchid Inn into a successful establishment.