Shillong, Jan 26: The Meghalaya government has urged its citizens to unite in building a prosperous future.
“Together, we will transform Meghalaya into a model of inclusive growth, resilience, and sustainable development,” Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said while unfurling the national flag at Tura to mark the 76th Republic Day celebrations.
Addressing a jubilant crowd at Matchakolgre LP school playground in Tura, the Chief Minister emphasized Meghalaya’s commitment to becoming a $10 billion economy by 2028. He cited significant achievements, including doubling the state’s GDP from Rs. 23,235 crore in 2015 to Rs. 53,057 crore in 2024. Investments in infrastructure have been pivotal, with over 2,500 kilometres of roads built in the past five years, and projects like the Shillong-Dawki Highway and Shillong Peak Ropeway aiming to boost connectivity and tourism.
“This is not just about economic growth,” the Chief Minister said. “It is about ensuring that every citizen of Meghalaya—from our farmers to our young entrepreneurs—shares in the prosperity.”
Infrastructure and Urban Development
New Shillong City emerged as a key highlight of the state’s developmental vision. Designed as a model for sustainable urban spaces, the city’s initiatives include the newly inaugurated Shillong Integrated Command and Control Centre and the ongoing construction of the Mawdiangdiang New Secretariat. Improved road networks and the upcoming Shillong Western Bypass promise to decongest the capital and enhance regional mobility.
In rural areas, programs like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) have provided over 82,995 homes in just two years, with an additional 3097 houses built under PMAY-Urban. The Jal Jeevan Mission’s success was also celebrated, with tap water reaching 81.4% of rural households, surpassing the national average.
Tourism and Cultural Renaissance
Meghalaya’s tourism sector has been hailed as a cornerstone of its economy, with Shillong recognized as India’s most popular travel destination for 2025 by Skyscanner. Flagship initiatives like the Shillong Peak Ropeway Project and the Meghalaya Tourism Homestay Scheme foster local entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism. Notably, the homestay scheme has enabled the creation of 600 properties, supported by a 70% subsidy.
International and domestic cultural events, including the Cherry Blossom Festival and Me Gong Festival, have further solidified Shillong’s reputation as the ‘Music Capital of India’. Plans for high-end tourism are also underway, with four new five-star hotels, including the redevelopment of Orchid Hotel into the Aurika by Lemon Tree Group.
Empowering Youth and Women
The state’s focus on its youth and women was prominent in the Republic Day address. Programs like Hello Meghalaya, an OTT platform supporting local filmmakers, have become a source of income for over 6,000 content creators. Similarly, women-led self-help groups (SHGs) are driving economic empowerment, with over 51,000 SHGs active across the state.
“Meghalaya’s women are the backbone of our progress,” the Chief Minister stated. “From sericulture to entrepreneurship, they are leading transformative change.”
Environmental and Indigenous Initiatives
Meghalaya’s pioneering environmental programs also took centre stage. The Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) initiative has incentivized communities to conserve 51,200 hectares of forest, with plans to expand this to 1 lakh hectares. The government’s efforts to protect Living Root Bridges and secure a UNESCO designation for them underscore its dedication to cultural heritage and ecological balance.
