By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 23: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday presented Meghalaya’s “vision-to-action roadmap” to achieving the $10 billion economy target during a high-level review meeting.
The meeting on the State Vision Plan was chaired by the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya Scindia.
In a post shared on social media after the meeting, Sangma highlighted Meghalaya’s approach to holistic economic development.
“Attended the review meeting on the State Vision Plan chaired by Hon’ble Union Minister for @MDoNER_India, Shri @JM_Scindia ji. Shared Meghalaya’s progress and challenges in key sectors such as Agri & Food Processing, Tourism, Entrepreneurship, and Connectivity,” he posted on X.
Sangma presented the state’s “vision-to-action roadmap” that forms the core of Meghalaya’s strategy to reach its ambitious $10 billion economy target. The roadmap is structured around enhancing sectoral strengths, fostering entrepreneurship, and closing critical infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural and remote areas.
“In line with the Union Minister’s suggestions, we will leverage our strengths, such as Lakadong (turmeric), and integrate ethnic architecture into homestays and tourist sites,” he noted, underlining the state’s intent to blend traditional heritage with modern economic drivers.
Lakadong turmeric, renowned for its high curcumin content, has been a flagship product in Meghalaya’s agriculture-based value chain and is now being repositioned as a key economic lever.
Tourism was another sector placed under the spotlight. Sangma’s remarks about integrating ethnic architecture into homestays and tourist destinations reflect an evolving strategy to promote immersive cultural tourism while generating income for rural households.
The focus on local design, indigenous craftsmanship, and ecologically sensitive development is expected to create a distinctive identity for Meghalaya within the national tourism landscape.
The chief minister also underscored infrastructure development as a central pillar of the state’s growth model. “We are committed to enhancing rural infrastructure and road connectivity to boost tourism and drive inclusive economic growth,” he said.
With difficult terrain and scattered settlements, road and digital connectivity remain persistent challenges for Meghalaya. The administration has increasingly prioritised infrastructure as a means of unlocking the country’s economic potential.
Sangma appreciated Scindia’s continued support. “Grateful to the Hon’ble Minister for his valuable insights and continued support to Meghalaya,” he said, signalling the importance of sustained Centre-state collaboration in realising Meghalaya’s long-term developmental aspirations.