Sohra, Meghalaya — In a landmark moment for Meghalaya’s tourism sector, Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today jointly laid the foundation for the Integrated Development of the Sohra Tourism Circuit, a transformative project worth over ₹233 crore.
The ceremony, held at Kutmadan, Sohra, was attended by Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, Sports Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai, Shella MLA Balajied Kupar Synrem, Sohra MLA Gavin M. Mylliem, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil Ahammed, and several dignitaries.
A Major Tourism Push Under PM-DevINE
Funded by the Ministry of DoNER under the PM-DevINE Scheme, the initiative is aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure and elevating the visitor experience in one of Meghalaya’s most iconic destinations. The project seeks to create sustainable livelihoods while positioning Sohra as a model of environmentally responsible tourism.
Scindia said the Sohra Tourism Circuit reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to make the Northeast a central pillar of India’s growth story.
“The PM-DevINE initiative was launched to ensure that no corner of our country is left behind. Today’s foundation laying in Sohra is not just about building infrastructure; it is about building futures,” he said.
He highlighted how budgetary allocation for the Northeast has risen sharply—from ₹36,000 crore in 2014 to over ₹1 lakh crore today—enabling major projects in connectivity and tourism.
“Connectivity and tourism are the twin engines of development in the Northeast,” he added, citing ongoing investments including rural roads, air links, and the ₹22,680 crore Shillong–Silchar Greenfield Expressway that will pass near Sohra.
Transformative Projects Across Sohra
The Integrated Tourism Circuit includes the development of several iconic sites:
Nohkalikai Falls
Mawsmai Eco Park
Arwah and Mawsmai Cave Precincts
Nohsngithiang (Seven Sisters) Falls
Wah Kaba Falls
Shella Riverside
Wah Kaliar Canyon Viewpoint
“These world-class projects will give Sohra a new identity — a benchmark for responsible tourism across the country,” Scindia said, praising Meghalaya’s successful community-based tourism model.
CM Conrad: “A Historic and Memorable Day for Sohra”
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and the DoNER Minister for their unwavering support. Calling the event “historic and memorable”, he said:
“This project is happening because of the large heart and vision of our Hon’ble Union Minister. It is not just about developing one destination — it’s about realizing a vision to build world-class, sustainable tourist destinations across the country.”
He said the Sohra Tourism Circuit will be a game changer, transforming infrastructure, boosting local livelihoods, and strengthening Meghalaya’s reputation as a sustainable tourism hub.
Conrad also highlighted future plans, including improved connectivity through the upcoming airport project and proposed helicopter routes linking Shillong, Sohra, and other destinations.
“Our focus is on making tourists stay longer and experience Meghalaya more deeply,” he added.
“The Cleanest Destination in India”
Earlier, Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil Ahammed welcomed dignitaries and emphasized Meghalaya’s steady rise as a tourism powerhouse, with over 16 lakh visitors annually.
“We have the cleanest villages and rivers. Now we must become the cleanest destination,” he said.
Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira echoed this vision, saying the state aims to make Sohra a place where visitors “stay longer, explore deeper, and engage closely with local communities,” adding that public–private partnerships are strengthening livelihoods and youth employment.
