Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma, spoke about the need to re-strategise tourism in Meghalaya in the background of the challenges and opportunities that the Covid-19 pandemic has created.
He was speaking at the second day of the ongoing Destination North East 2020, a mega online event, with the theme “Emerging Delightful Destinations”, held today and which witnessed the participation of the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya.
Sangma explained that, eco tourism being the forte of Meghalaya, there is a need for better packaging, linking Shillong Airport to Delhi and other metros and investing in Unique Selling Points to attract a potential 26 million high value Indian foreign going tourists of India who are now likely to turn towards North East region.
Highlighting the importance and potential of tourism in the North East region, Sangma talked about the direct and indirect benefits of tourism in Meghalaya in terms of revenue earned, employment created and livelihood generated.
Sangma also stressed the need for attracting capital, government funding and Public Private Partnership. Lastly he felt that there is a need to create security and safety for both locals and tourists in the era of Covid and informed that Meghalaya Government is taking all possible measures to implement the health protocols seriously.
The event saw the presentation of cultural mosaics, dances, places of tourist attractions, choirs, state icons, achievers and entrepreneurs of the participating states.
Akriti Chen, Miss Meghalaya, extended welcome on behalf of her State. Special messages were delivered by state icons, Mountaineer Wansuk Myrthong and Cyclist Winward Sangma.
Introduction about Urlong tea was given by Riba and a cultural presentation of dance and music like Shad Mastieh Dance, Wangala Dance and Shad Pliang Dance etc was also made.
The program ended with a vote of thanks to the participating State of Meghalaya by Navin Kumar, Adviser (T&C), NEC.
