Conrad K Sangma on May 6 said the Centre has awarded the contract for expanding the runway at Shillong Airport, a move expected to improve air connectivity in Meghalaya and boost tourism in the state.
Speaking at the Empowerment of Tourism Champions of Meghalaya programme at Orchid Lake Resort, Sangma said the runway expansion work is expected to be completed within 15 months. Once completed, bigger aircraft will be able to operate from Shillong.
Calling it a major boost for tourism, the chief minister said better connectivity is important for Meghalaya to attract more domestic and international tourists. He added that improved transport facilities would also help local businesses and create more jobs.
The programme was organised by the state tourism department and was attended by tourism entrepreneurs, artisans, students, village leaders, homestay owners and community representatives from different parts of Meghalaya.
Sangma said tourism growth requires coordination between the government, transport operators, hospitality businesses and local communities. He added that the state is working on creating a better tourism experience for visitors.
He also mentioned several tourism projects currently being developed, including the Shillong Ropeway, Mawkdok Skywalk, Rain Museum at Mawsynram, the Living Root Bridge Museum, and tourism projects in Sohra, Mandalgre and Siju.
Timothy D Shira said tourism has become one of the biggest contributors to Meghalaya’s economy, with nearly 18 lakh tourist arrivals recorded in 2025.
He said over 150 tourism-related projects are currently being implemented across the state with investments worth thousands of crores. Meghalaya is also working to develop Umiam Lake into a global tourism destination through sustainable planning.
During the event, the chief minister announced new beneficiaries under the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Homestay Mission and recognised successful beneficiaries under the homestay scheme linked to the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme.
Launched in September 2025, the mission aims to set up 3,000 new homestays by 2028 and create more than 15,000 jobs. Officials said 80 homestay applications have been approved so far, while 55 beneficiaries from Khasi, Jaintia and Ri-Bhoi regions received financial support worth ₹3.85 crore.
Sanction letters were also distributed under the Community-Led Infrastructure Scheme to help villages and tourism groups build tourism infrastructure.
The event also highlighted Meghalaya’s participation in the Surajkund International Crafts Mela and exposure visits by tourism stakeholders from Sohra to Ekta Nagar.
A bravery award was also given to Teiborlang Pakma for rescuing a drowning person at Ward’s Lake.