Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on Saturday laid the foundation stone for the Integrated Sohra Circuit Development Project under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE) scheme. He also launched multiple DoNER projects worth ₹233 crore in Meghalaya, in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, senior officials, and tourism stakeholders.
Calling Meghalaya “a heaven on earth, the abode of clouds and cascading waterfalls,” Scindia said the Sohra Tourism Circuit is a meticulously crafted initiative to position Sohra on the world tourism map as a model for sustainable and experiential tourism. The project, he said, will accelerate Meghalaya’s transformation into a connected, confident, and competitive state.
Highlighting the region’s progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Scindia said the past decade has seen the Northeast transform from a “landlocked” region into a “land-linked powerhouse.” He noted that over ₹6.2 lakh crore has been invested in the region through the 10% Gross Budgetary Support policy, driving connectivity, enterprise, and empowerment.
Meghalaya, he said, has been among the biggest beneficiaries of this renewed focus, recording 12–16% post-COVID growth through investments in infrastructure, air connectivity, and tourism. Major infrastructure projects include the ₹22,864 crore Shillong–Silchar Greenfield Expressway (166.8 km) and the expansion of Umroi Airport, which will soon accommodate larger aircraft. Scindia also highlighted the New Shillong City initiative as a “smart-green township” and a future knowledge hub for the Northeast.
The Integrated Sohra Tourism Circuit, jointly conceptualised by the Ministry of DoNER and the Government of Meghalaya, represents one of the most ambitious tourism projects in the region. With total investments exceeding ₹650 crore, including ₹221 crore under DoNER, the project aims to transform Sohra into a multi-day experiential tourism destination rooted in sustainability and local livelihoods.
At the heart of the project is the Sohra Experience Centre at Kutmadan, being developed at an investment of ₹115 crore. The centre will serve as the cultural nucleus, showcasing Meghalaya’s rich tribal heritage through amphitheatres, 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, featuring adventure tourism activities such as hot-air balloon rides. These projects are expected to increase tourist spending sixfold and create over 4,600 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Alongside tourism initiatives, Scindia inaugurated several key infrastructure projects to improve mobility and trade within Meghalaya:
* Pynursla–Latangriwan–Mawlynnong Road (₹29.97 crore) – Enhances access to Asia’s cleanest village and supports cross-border tourism.
* Mawshynrut–Hahim (Athiabari) Road (₹99.76 crore) – Upgraded to intermediate lane standards, boosting agricultural connectivity.
* Bridge over Umngot River on Jongksha–Wahiajer Road (₹21.86 crore) – Connects East Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills, facilitating trade and movement.
Scindia also announced that the Umroi Airport runway extension and the new Shillong Western Bypass will soon cut travel time between Guwahati and Sohra to around four hours, enhancing access to major tourism and trade hubs.
Emphasising the people-centric nature of the project, Scindia said, “The first smile a tourist sees in Meghalaya will be the first income earned by a local family.”
Skill development initiatives, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Skills Development Society and IHM Shillong, are already underway to train youth in hospitality, eco-tourism, and safety management. The Minister stressed that the government’s goal is to build a tourism economy that preserves the state’s natural and cultural heritage while providing sustainable livelihoods.
Concluding his address, Scindia said, “Meghalaya stands today at the confluence of heritage and hope. These projects are not just about building infrastructure; they are about building futures.”
He expressed confidence that the synergy between the Centre and the State, under PM Modi’s leadership, will make Meghalaya a connected, confident, and competitive state, driving the Northeast’s journey toward Viksit Bharat @2047.