By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 1: In a major boost to Meghalaya’s tourism ambitions, the Union government on Saturday unveiled a Rs 300-crore project to transform Sohra — the rain-soaked heart of Meghalaya — into a world-class, sustainable tourism destination. The Integrated Development of the Sohra Tourism Circuit, launched jointly by Union DoNER Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Saturday, promises to re-imagine one of the state’s most beloved locations through improved infrastructure, connectivity, and community-led experiences.
The Rs 300-crore-plus initiative, funded by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) under the PM-DevINE Scheme, seeks to accelerate development and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Speaking at the event, Scindia said the Sohra Tourism Circuit reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to make the Northeast a key pillar of India’s growth story. He added that the PM-DevINE Scheme was launched to ensure that the benefits of development reach every corner of the country. “These projects are not just about infrastructure, but about transforming livelihoods and creating opportunities for local communities,” he said.
Highlighting the Centre’s focus on the region, Scindia said that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, budgetary support for the Northeast has increased from Rs 36,000 crore in 2014 to over Rs 1 lakh crore today. He added that more than Rs 50,000 crore has been spent on rural road development and connectivity in the region.
Scindia said Meghalaya and Sohra stand to benefit immensely from ongoing investments, including road and air connectivity projects and the Shillong-Silchar Greenfield Expressway worth Rs 22,680 crore, which will pass close to Sohra. “Connectivity and tourism are the twin engines of development in the Northeast,” he noted.
Referring to the Sohra projects — which include the development of Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Eco Park, Arwah and Mawsmai Cave precincts, Nohsngithiang Falls, Wah Kaba Falls, Shella Riverside, and the Wah Kaliar Canyon viewpoint — Scindia said they aim to transform Sohra into a model of sustainable, community-led tourism for the entire region.
“These world-class projects will give Sohra a new identity — not just as a tourist destination, but as a benchmark for responsible tourism across India,” he said, lauding Meghalaya’s community-based tourism model and natural beauty. “Nowhere else in the world do nature, culture, and community coexist in such harmony as they do here in Meghalaya. This harmony is the foundation of its growth.”
Praising the state government’s initiatives, the Union Minister added, “The passion and dedication of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and his team are visible in every initiative taken here. Meghalaya is not waiting for the future — it is building it.”
Scindia emphasised that the Sohra Tourism Circuit would stand as a model for how development and environmental preservation can go hand in hand. “The beauty of Meghalaya is divine, and it is our responsibility to protect it. Tourism must empower, not exploit,” he remarked.
In his address, Chief Minister Sangma expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and Scindia for their support toward the development of Meghalaya and the Northeast. He described the event as a historic and memorable occasion for Sohra and the state.
The chief minister praised Scindia’s personal commitment to the region, saying, “Many ministers visit the Northeast, but what makes Mr. Scindia’s visits different is the way he connects with people, understands their problems, and works to find real solutions.”
He said the Sohra Tourism Circuit represents a landmark project under the PM-DevINE initiative, calling it a “game changer” for the state’s tourism sector. “This project is not just about developing one destination — it’s about realising a vision to build world-class, sustainable tourist destinations across the country,” he said.
Calling Sohra the first of its kind under this vision, Sangma added, “We are fortunate that this project is being implemented here in Meghalaya. It will transform infrastructure, boost local livelihoods, and elevate the state’s image as a sustainable tourism destination.”
The chief minister also spoke about future tourism initiatives, including the upcoming airport project and proposed helicopter services between Shillong, Sohra, and other key destinations to enhance accessibility. “We are hopeful that all of this will take Meghalaya’s tourism sector to new heights,” he said, assuring that the government would ensure the timely and successful implementation of the project.
Tourism Minister Timothy D Shira said the vision behind the Sohra Tourism Circuit is to develop the area into a world-class destination that blends nature, culture, and innovation. “Our mission is to make Sohra a place where visitors stay longer, explore deeper, and engage meaningfully with local communities,” he said, adding that growing private sector participation is helping create jobs, empower youth, and strengthen the local economy.
Earlier, Chief Secretary Dr Shakil Ahammed delivered the welcome address, highlighting Meghalaya’s steady progress in tourism. With over 16 lakh annual visitors, he said it is time to diversify destinations, extend visitor stays, and promote clean and responsible tourism.
