Editor,
News of the Govt planning an Eco Tourism Park at Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary , Ri Bhoi District has been doing the rounds for quite some time now. Public resentment and objections by environmentalists have been on the increase with each passing day. Janet Hujon’s write-up on the subject (ST 2nd May 2025) is the latest public expression of disgust and abhorrence at such a proposal. Now lets admit that a wildlife reserve and sanctuary is supposed to be just that – a non human intrusive space where wild animals can live in peace in their own wild freedom , just as God planned them to do so. Wild animals don’t want to see any human being near them. In fact they run away as far as possible whenever they sense human presence. So why open this stupid Eco Park in a sanctuary, force raucous human noise in the peace and quiet of the forest and scare the poor animal out of their wits? Its animal cruelty and the local people of Bhoi area have respected this animal need for their own wild habitat for ages. As a matter of fact there is also Global recognition on the need to prevent disturbance of wild animals and their environment. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), in fact works to protect animals and their habitats, including rescuing animals, preventing cruelty, and advocating for wildlife protection. Those interested in preserving the Nongkhyllem Sanctuary as it is, can approach the above organization for help or closer home can approach the National Green Tribunal for assistance.
Now lets take the viewpoint of the other side. The Tourism Department needs to make money and also to show the world that its doing its work – attracting tourists into the state! Fine, but can we do it legally, lawfully and by abiding by the rules and regulations through official permission from the authority designated for such permission? We are given to understand that clearance from the National Board for Wildlife is needed for such intrusion into declared sanctuaries. Also required are a Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and a Public Hearing before proceeding with such projects. It is given to understand that in the case under discussion, none of the above have been done. Why all this secrecy when this Government never misses the opportunity to blow the trumpet about its accountability and transparency?
So what the hell is the State Wildlife Board headed by the Chief Minister of Meghalaya doing? Is it blind or hard of hearing even after all the public hue and cry over this foolhardy proposal that is likely to adversely impact one of its prime wildlife sanctuaries? Shame on this Government! This is a case that in all probability will adversely affect public interest nor is it designed to promote a desired outcome for a better environment in Meghalaya. I sincerely believe it is a fit case for so motto judicial intervention by the Meghalaya High Court or for some interested party to move an RTI over it.
But we forget about the Tourism Department’s need to make money and show activity. We are told it’s a 23.60 crore project and contracted to a company by the name of E-Factor Experiences Ltd. It’s a company that specializes in weddings and event management. Zilch on wildlife protection, environmental conservation et al. Yet they now want to venture into wildlife eco-tourism but confined within their own event management experiences. I have an excellent suggestion on how this can be done. Please shift their project site from Nongkhyllem to Police Bazar. One can come across all sorts of wild, feral untamed creatures after 10 pm in and around the area. One can find wild animals fighting, roaming around aimlessly, making unintelligible animal noises, attacking without provocation and if one is lucky , even spot in some dark corner a mating pair in the bushes! It’s a savage jungle out there. A skywalk around the area with strategically placed spotlights will really attract hordes of inquisitive tourists. Some adventurous tourist might even be tempted to join the fun. Wouldn’t that be lovely! The Tourism Department might also just tell the police not to play spoilsports and then we might even be presented in the mornings with the sight of a stiff or two. I mean this proposal is being made in the interest of promoting wildlife tourism but lets keep the poor innocent wild animals and our pristine forests out of it.
Yours etc.,
Toki Blah,
Via email
Growth of tourism in Meghalaya: A blessing or challenge?
Editor,
I am writing this letter to express my views on the rapid growth of tourism in Meghalaya, As a resident of this beautiful land it fills me with both pride and concern to see our state become one of India’s top tourist spots. People from all over the country and outside come to witness our stunning landscapes, immerse themselves in the rich cultures and experience our one-of-a-kind attractions, such as the living root bridges and crystal-clear rivers of Dawki.
Local entrepreneurs, home-stays, and small businesses have opened up new opportunities due to tourism. Rather than migrating in search of work, many young people are finding employment as tour guides, drivers, and in the hospitality industry. Our culture has been better showcased thanks to government initiatives that support festivals such as the Cherry Blossom Festival and the Shillong Literary Festival.
However, this growth comes with certain problems that must be addressed. Irresponsible tourism is causing harm to our delicate ecosystems. Natural sites like Shnongpdeng and Laitlum are seeing increased littering, water pollution, and damage due to overcrowding. There is a danger of degradation to the precious rivers and woods that are very important to our indigenous communities. Moreover, when traditions are turned into commodities for profit, they run the risk of becoming nothing more than tourist attractions, losing all of their authentic character.
Taking immediate action to guarantee sustainable tourism is crucial, as I believe in responsible tourism – one that gives back to local communities without harming the environment. Encouraging eco-tourism, managing tourist flow to avoid overcrowding, and promoting awareness among visitors are small steps that can make a big difference. Most importantly, the local population must be involved in the planning and decision-making processes to ensure that tourism uplifts rather than exploits our culture and environment. Let us, as citizens, embrace responsible tourism in Meghalaya and work together to safeguard its future.
Yours etc.,
Agreecy Kharumnuid
Shillong
Wrong answer keys provided by MPSC
Editor,
The answer key for the test conducted for the post of Field Assistant under the Directorate of Economics and Statistics held on April 19, 2025 which was released by MPSC on April 24, 2025 needs to be rechecked as some of the answers given were incorrect. From my side on checking the questions from the Mathematics section – questions No. 108, 136 and 141 for Series-1, the options given were incorrect. The answer should be (D) 20Years, (A) 4 times and (B) 4 Years respectively. Hence, I would request the concerned expert to kindly recheck the questions and answers. I have proof of the errors not only from my own calculations but from a particular website https://www.doubtnut.com in case they want to consult. I am left with no options than to write this letter because filing OMR representation against the answer keys from the MPSC account is very difficukt as it always gives error messages.
Yours etc.,
Name withheld on request
Via email