Shillong, Jan 9: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday has adopted a systematic approach to develop tourism by taking an initiative to develop and package the unique selling point of a particular destination in the State.

He made this announcement at the inauguration of the Lake View Cottages and Orchid Lake Cottages near the scenic Umiam Lake. These cottages were constructed under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of the Union Ministry of Tourism.

Noting that a focused approach to boost tourism sector will pay dividend for Meghalaya and its economy, Sangma said, “We can reap rich dividends by investing and developing tourism. For every rupee spent in this sector, the return will be hundred folds, which will have direct bearing on our economy.”

“We want to build a positive campaign to promote our destinations and invite tourist to experience the culture, nature and the climate of Meghalaya,” he said.

Sangma informed that the central government is extending all support for developing connectivity to different tourism destinations, which will facilitate tourism in the State.

“We are engaging with different airlines to start direct air connectivity from Delhi and Kolkata and if this happens it will be a huge boost to tourism. Likewise, if there is air connectivity from neighbouring countries, Meghalaya being the nearest hill state will immensely benefit,” he added.

The Chief Minister said that the government has envisioned developing heritage villages in different destinations to enable the tourist to experience the unique culture, traditions and music of Meghalaya.