The Centre has approved the runway expansion project at Shillong airport, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced on Wednesday, describing it as a major boost to tourism and connectivity in the state.
Addressing the Empowerment of Tourism Champions of Meghalaya event at Orchid Lake in Umiam, Sangma said the project is expected to be completed within around 15 months and will enable larger aircraft to operate from the airport.
“This will be a game-changer for tourism in Meghalaya,” he said, highlighting the importance of improved connectivity in positioning the state as a leading tourist destination.
The programme, organised by the state tourism department, brought together stakeholders including entrepreneurs, artisans, students and community leaders from across Meghalaya.
Sangma emphasised that tourism growth depends on a collaborative ecosystem rather than isolated efforts. “Tourism cannot succeed through the efforts of the government alone, nor through the efforts of individual hotel owners, taxi operators, restaurant owners or other stakeholders working in isolation. Tourism thrives only when every stakeholder plays their part,” he said.
Highlighting the state’s broader tourism vision, the chief minister said Meghalaya must become a natural choice for travellers. “When a family sits together and decides where they want to travel, Meghalaya must be visible. Meghalaya must be attractive. Meghalaya must be a destination that naturally comes to mind,” he added.
He noted that tourists consider factors such as infrastructure, connectivity, safety and overall experience before choosing destinations, adding that the government aims to ensure visitors leave with lasting memories.
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Sangma also outlined ongoing tourism projects, including the Shillong Ropeway, Mawkdok Skywalk, Rain Museum in Mawsynram, Living Root Bridge Museum, and tourism centres in Sohra, Mandalgre and Siju.
Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira said tourism has emerged as a key pillar of the state’s economy, with nearly 18 lakh tourist arrivals recorded in 2025.
He added that over 150 tourism projects are under implementation across Meghalaya, with investments worth thousands of crores and increasing private sector participation.
Shira said the state is working to develop Umiam as a global tourism destination and has set up a dedicated Destination Management Organisation for professional planning and sustainable tourism management.
During the event, the chief minister also announced new beneficiaries under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission, which aims to create 3,000 homestays by 2028 and generate over 15,000 jobs.
Officials said 80 applications have been approved so far, with 55 beneficiaries receiving financial assistance amounting to Rs 3.85 crore.
A bravery award was also presented to Teiborlang Pakma for rescuing a drowning person at Ward’s Lake.
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