In an effort to harness the potential of the tourism sector and propel the state’s economic growth, the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma, launched the state’s much-awaited Tourism Policy 2023.
Recognising the need to update the existing tourism policy formulated in 2011, the government conducted a comprehensive review and introduced a revamped policy.
The policy, according to the released document, aims to capitalise on the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Meghalaya while ensuring sustainability and responsible development. With a vision to position Meghalaya among the top 10 states in India, the policy focuses on attracting domestic and international tourists and strengthening the state’s brand identity.
The new Meghalaya Tourism Policy 2023 was officially launched by CM Sangma, alongside State Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, at a special ceremony held at the State Convention Centre. After the release, Lyngdoh provided insights into the policy’s key components and objectives.
He said the policy comprises two main sections: a vision statement encompassing core guiding principles, and 10 specific thrust areas that will serve as the guiding force for the state’s tourism development trajectory. These thrust areas have been meticulously identified to ensure a strategic and impactful approach to tourism development in the state, he said.
In 2019, the tourist footfall in Meghalaya stood at about 12.7 lakhs (including 25,000 foreigners). Among the Northeastern states, this is highest after the states Assam and Sikkim, as per the state tourism data. The footfalls have grown steadily over the last decade and are once again witnessing a resurgence post the Covid, it mentioned.
It is further expected that the annual tourist footfall will cross 15 lakhs by 2024.
According to the state’s Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Meghalaya’s tourism sector employs nearly 50,000 people and contributes about 4.1 per cent to the state’s GSDP. The policy further recognises the multiplier effects of tourism, generating employment across various sectors and skill levels, including unskilled, semi-trained, trained, highly skilled, and professionals.
Tourism’s positive impact extends to other industries such as construction, transport, agriculture, food processing, handicrafts, and financial services. Meghalaya’s delicate ecosystem, rich biodiversity, and reliance on natural-resource-based sectors also demand sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Therefore, under the “RESTART – Resilient and Sustainable Tourism” initiative, principles like carrying capacity, right pricing, and zero waste were established to ensure responsible tourism.
The new policy emphasises promoting high-value, low-volume tourism, focusing on attracting tourists with a higher propensity to spend and encouraging longer stays in the state. The government also aims to manage carrying capacity by determining the maximum number of visitors a destination can accommodate without compromising the environment and visitor satisfaction.
Industry experts gathered at the 1st edition of ET MICE & Wedding Tourism Summit & Awards to discuss the potential of India’s events and MICE industry. The panel, comprising experts from different fields, stressed the need for effective marketing, a positive perception of India as a MICE destination and comprehensive policies. Collaboration, technology, and government support were identified as key factors for growth.
Efforts will also be made to introduce e-vehicles for tourist transportation.
Earlier, Chief Minister Sangma also unveiled a fleet of 16 Toyota ‘Innova‘ vehicles as a part of the Prime Tourism Vehicles scheme, catering to both tour operators and individuals.
In response, Minister Lyngdoh announced plans to introduce an additional 50 vehicles within the next two months.
“As part of the scheme, we have rolled out 16 Innova Crysta today. The luxury vehicles will provide high-quality mobility and will enhance the overall experience of the tourists,” Sangma tweeted.
For employment generation, the policy has a sharpened focus, especially for the local rural youth, through the development of new circuits and the leasing of government properties to entrepreneurs.
Skilling programmes will be implemented to enable the participation of local communities in the tourism sector, and initiatives will be taken to produce and supply products demanded by the industry, under the new policy.
Leveraging technology is another crucial aspect, aiming to improve the overall tourism experience and provide real-time updates on footfalls, traffic, and occupancy. The “Meghalaya Tourism” App, launched in 2020, will be further upgraded to serve as a comprehensive platform for accessing tourist facilities and information. The government also plans to incorporate technology for improved branding, safety measures, and disaster warnings.
Connectivity infrastructure will play a vital role in attracting tourists, and the policy highlights the need for enhanced connectivity within the state and with major cities.
Efforts will be made to establish direct air connectivity with cities like New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Chennai. The government will also explore the possibility of setting up a greenfield airport and expanding helicopter services to remote destinations. Improving road connectivity and constructing bypasses to reduce congestion on major routes are also part of the plan.
Collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive tourism development has also been encouraged. As per the policy, the Public-private partnerships will be fostered to leverage the expertise and resources of both sectors. This includes joint initiatives for infrastructure development, marketing campaigns, and investment in tourism-related projects.
To expand tourism beyond the popular Umiam-Shillong-Sohra axis, the government will develop new circuits in a hub and spoke model. These circuits will not only relieve the pressure on existing hotspots but also create infrastructure and livelihood opportunities in underserved regions.
Several circuits, including the Umngot riverfront, Jakrem, Nokrek National Park, Tura, Balpakram National Park, and various destinations in East Khasi Hills, have been identified for master planning and development.
The policy also emphasises on the promotion, marketing, and branding of Meghalaya as a sustainable and safe tourism destination.
Several steps may be taken for the development of wayside amenities to improve the convenience and safety of tourists by offering standardised experiences through a range of facilities. Efforts to create eco-fragile zones, and conserve heritage sites and natural assets like sacred groves and living root bridges will also be planned.
To ensure tourist safety and attract reputable operators, comprehensive guidelines encompassing safety and operational aspects will be periodically issued. Additionally, access to challenging destinations may require an accompanying guide or expert.
To address tourist safety concerns, the establishment of a specialised Tourist Police Force is proposed.
