Shillong, Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on Friday, laid the foundation stone for the Integrated Sohra Circuit Development under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE) and inaugurated multiple DoNER projects worth ₹233 crore in Meghalaya. The event was attended by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, senior state officials, and representatives from the tourism sector.
Describing Meghalaya as “a heaven on earth, the abode of clouds and cascading waterfalls,” Scindia reaffirmed the Government of India’s commitment to promoting responsible, inclusive, and heritage-based tourism across the Northeast.
Transforming the Northeast
Scindia noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the past decade has marked a transformative period for the region, turning it from a “landlocked” area into a “land-linked powerhouse.” He highlighted that over ₹6.2 lakh crore has been invested in the Northeast through the 10% Gross Budgetary Support policy, fostering connectivity, enterprise, and empowerment.
Meghalaya, he said, has benefitted from targeted investments in infrastructure, air connectivity, and tourism, achieving 12–16% growth in the post-COVID period. Landmark initiatives include the 166.8 km Shillong–Silchar Greenfield Expressway (₹22,864 crore) and the expansion of Umroi Airport to handle larger aircraft. The New Shillong City project will develop as a “smart-green township” and knowledge hub for the region.
Integrated Sohra Circuit: A Model for Sustainable Tourism
The Integrated Sohra Circuit, conceptualized jointly by DoNER and the Meghalaya government, is one of the Northeast’s most ambitious tourism projects, with investments exceeding ₹650 crore, including ₹221 crore under DoNER. The project aims to transform Sohra into a multi-day experiential destination emphasizing sustainability and local livelihoods.
The Sohra Experience Centre at Kutmadan, costing ₹115 crore, will showcase Meghalaya’s tribal heritage through amphitheaters, rain experience parks, art galleries, and craft pavilions. Supporting initiatives include the Nohkalikai Falls precinct (₹26 crore), Mawsmai Eco Park (₹29 crore), Seven Sisters Falls Viewpoint, Shella Riverside Development, and Wahkaliar Canyon with adventure tourism features such as hot-air balloon rides. These projects are expected to boost tourist spending sixfold and create over 4,600 direct and indirect jobs.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Boost
Several critical infrastructure projects were also inaugurated to enhance regional mobility and trade:
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Pynursla–Latangriwan–Mawlynnong Road (₹29.97 crore) — all-weather access to Asia’s cleanest village.
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Mawshynrut–Hahim (Athiabari) Road (₹99.76 crore) — upgraded to intermediate lane standards, enhancing agricultural connectivity.
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Foundation stone for Umngot River bridge on Jongksha–Wahiajer Road (₹21.86 crore) — linking East Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills.
Scindia noted that the Umroi Airport runway extension and the new Shillong Western Bypass will soon cut travel time between Guwahati and Sohra to about four hours, connecting the region more efficiently to major tourism and trade hubs.
Empowering Local Communities
“The first smile a tourist sees in Meghalaya should become the first income earned by a local family,” Scindia said, highlighting skill development programs for local youth in hospitality, safety management, and eco-tourism, implemented in collaboration with Meghalaya Skills Development Society and IHM Shillong.
Heritage and Hope
“Meghalaya stands today at the confluence of heritage and hope. These projects are not just about building infrastructure; they are about building futures,” the Minister said, expressing confidence that the synergy between the Centre and the State will make Meghalaya a connected, confident, and competitive state, advancing the Northeast’s journey toward Viksit Bharat @2047.
