Shillong, Sept 2: Meghalaya’s Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Tuesday announced the launch of the Meghalaya Hospitality Scholarship Programme, an initiative of the MDA Government aimed at creating a skilled workforce for the state’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

Speaking to the media after a cabinet meeting, Lyngdoh described the scheme as a “landmark decision” to encourage young people to pursue higher education in hospitality and prepare them for global opportunities.

Under the programme, the government will provide 100% tuition fee support for students pursuing a B.Sc. in Hospitality and Hotel Management at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM). Over the next five years, 165 students will benefit, with each of the state’s 55 C&RD Blocks nominating one student per batch for three consecutive batches.

Eligibility criteria include being a permanent resident of Meghalaya, having passed Class 12 with English as a subject, and belonging to a family with an annual income below ₹3 lakh. Selection will be merit-based and overseen by a state-level committee.

While tuition fees will be fully covered, students will be required to bear costs for hostel, mess, uniforms, and incidental expenses. The programme involves an investment of ₹6.65 crore, averaging ₹3.67 lakh per student.

“This scholarship is inclusive and ensures that every block of Meghalaya participates. It is an investment in our youth and in the future of the state’s tourism and hospitality industry,” Lyngdoh said.