Shillong, Sep 19: Meghalaya has immense potential to emerge as a global hub for both Eri silk and tourism, Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles Pabitra Margherita said on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters in Shillong, Margherita said the Northeast holds significant strength in silk, handloom and handicrafts, with Meghalaya as a key contributor. He noted that Meghalaya’s Eri silk has a GI tag and the Centre is connecting weavers and artisans from remote areas with global markets through Samarth scheme, subsidised yarn, e-commerce platforms and international fairs.
The Northeast accounts for 52 per cent of the country’s handlooms, he said, adding the focus is on “Virāsat bhi, Vikas bhi” — preserving heritage while driving growth.
On tourism, Margherita said Meghalaya’s natural beauty, hills, flora and fauna, culture and textiles can attract international tourists.
“Meghalaya has immense potential and the Government of India always stands with the people and the government in terms of tourism development,” he said, expressing confidence that international tourist footfall to the state and region will increase manifold in coming years.
