Meghalaya Launches ₹1,087 Crore Development Projects

In a landmark moment for Meghalaya’s growth story, Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman laid the foundation stones and inaugurated a series of transformative infrastructure projects worth ₹1,087.81 crore. The projects were launched during an Integrated Public Programme held at LARITI – International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, a symbol of the state’s cultural revival and progressive vision.

Meghalaya’s Effective Use of Central Funds

The Finance Minister lauded Meghalaya’s consistent growth under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, especially praising the state’s full utilisation of ₹5,400 crore under the Special Assistance to State for Capital Investment (SASCI). Unlike several states yet to exhaust their allocated funds, Meghalaya stands out for its performance and efficient execution.

Centre’s Commitment to Northeast India

Sitharaman reaffirmed the Centre’s strong commitment to the Northeast, citing noteworthy progress in infrastructure development, including road connectivity, optical fibre expansion, and flagship schemes such as Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Awas Yojana, and Swachh Bharat Mission.

A Vision to Join India’s Top 10 Economies

Chief Minister Sangma reiterated the state’s vision of joining India’s top 10 states by 2032 and highlighted its impressive 15% growth rate, far exceeding the national average. He emphasised governance rooted in purpose, results, and impact.

With nearly ₹12,000 crore in Externally Aided Projects (EAPs) driving large-scale development, Meghalaya is making significant strides in areas ranging from agriculture and entrepreneurship to tourism and digital infrastructure.

Key Projects Driving Inclusive Growth

Among the major projects inaugurated were:

• 75 Digital Libraries in Remote Areas: A ₹162 crore SASCI initiative connecting rural youth to the National Digital Library and promoting reading culture.
• Redevelopment of Umiam Lake: ₹120.81 crore allocated to create a premier eco-tourism hub expected to attract over 1.27 lakh tourists annually.
• Tourism Infrastructure at Mawkhanu: ₹103 crore MICE and tourism project featuring a theme park, open-air amphitheatre, and festival spaces.
• Mawkhanu Football Stadium: A proposed ₹732 crore state-of-the-art sports complex with a residential academy in collaboration with NorthEast United FC.
• Working Women’s Hostels: ₹132 crore investment for accommodation facilities in Shillong, Jowai, Byrnihat, and Tura.
• Office-cum-Residential Complex for CBIC, New Shillong: A ₹256.23 crore integrated administrative facility.
• Northeast Regional Campus of IICA, Mawkhanu: A ₹100.95 crore initiative for corporate governance and leadership training — the first IICA campus outside Delhi.

Boosting Entrepreneurship and Organic Exports

The event also witnessed the distribution of cheques to local entrepreneurs under schemes like PM MUDRA, PM SVANidhi, and PMEGP, supporting diverse ventures in agriculture, hospitality, and retail.

In a major push for organic farming and global market integration, the Finance Minister flagged off a consignment of premium organic pineapples from Meghalaya to LULU Retail, Dubai, strengthening the state’s agri-export potential.

A New Chapter for Meghalaya Tourism and Economy

The projects collectively mark a new era for Meghalaya tourism, infrastructure, and economic diversification. With a firm commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, the state is poised to emerge as a leading destination for eco-tourism, entrepreneurship, and cultural heritage in Northeast India.

As Meghalaya aligns its goals with India’s broader development narrative, this milestone event signals a future built on innovation, empowerment, and growth.