Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, today laid the foundation stone for the Integrated Sohra Circuit Development under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE) scheme and launched multiple DoNER projects worth ₹233 crore in the presence of Chief Minister of Meghalaya Shri Conrad Sangma, senior state officials, and tourism stakeholders.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia described Meghalaya as “a heaven on earth, the abode of clouds and cascading waterfalls, where every breeze carries the fragrance of dignity, faith, and the freedom of progress,” and reaffirmed the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to advancing responsible, inclusive, and heritage-based tourism across the North Eastern Region.
The Minister noted that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the last decade has marked a period of transformation for the Northeast, turning it from a “landlocked” region into a “land-linked powerhouse.”
He underlined that over ₹6.2 lakh crore has been channelled into the region through the 10% Gross Budgetary Support policy, fostering connectivity, enterprise, and empowerment across sectors. Meghalaya, he said, has been one of the foremost beneficiaries of this renewed focus, achieving 12–16% growth in the post-COVID years through targeted investments in infrastructure, air connectivity, and tourism.
Shri Scindia highlighted landmark projects such as the 166.8 km Shillong–Silchar Greenfield Expressway (₹22,864 crore) and the expansion of Umroi Airport to accommodate larger aircraft, enabling a sharp rise in annual flight operations. The New Shillong City project, he added, will emerge as a “smart-green township” and a knowledge hub for the Northeast.
The Integrated Sohra Circuit, conceptualised jointly by the Ministry of DoNER and the Government of Meghalaya, represents one of the most ambitious tourism initiatives in the Northeast. With total investments exceeding ₹650 crore, including more than ₹221 crore under MDoNER, the project aims to transform Sohra into a multi-day experiential tourism destination rooted in sustainability and local livelihoods.
The Sohra Experience Centre at Kutmadan, being developed at an investment of ₹115 crore, will serve as the cultural nucleus of the circuit, showcasing Meghalaya’s diverse tribal heritage through amphitheatres, rain experience parks, art galleries, and craft pavilions.
Supporting projects include the Nohkalikai Falls precinct (₹26 crore), Mawsmai Eco Park (₹29 crore), Seven Sisters Falls Viewpoint, Shella Riverside Development, and Wahkaliar Canyon with adventure tourism features such as hot-air balloon rides. Collectively, these projects are expected to increase tourist spending sixfold, while generating over 4,600 direct and indirect employment opportunities.
Alongside the tourism circuit, several critical infrastructure projects were inaugurated to enhance regional mobility and trade. These include – Pynursla–Latangriwan–Mawlynnong Road (₹29.97 crore), which will provide all-weather access to Asia’s cleanest village and boost cross-border tourism and local trade; Mawshynrut–Hahim (Athiabari) Road (₹99.76 crore), upgraded to intermediate lane standards, strengthening agricultural connectivity in western Meghalaya; and Foundation Stone for a major bridge over the Umngot River on the Jongksha–Wahiajer Road (₹21.86 crore), linking East Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills for better movement of people and goods.
Shri Scindia also highlighted that the Umroi Airport runway extension and the new Shillong Western Bypass will soon reduce travel time between Guwahati and Sohra to about four hours, bringing the region closer to major tourism and trade hubs.
Shri Scindia emphasised that the Sohra Circuit will ensure that the first smile a tourist sees in Meghalaya becomes the first income earned by a local family. Skill development programmes in collaboration with the Meghalaya Skills Development Society and IHM Shillong are already underway to train local youth in hospitality, safety management, and eco-tourism practices.
He further reiterated that the Ministry of DoNER is committed to creating inclusive growth pathways that preserve the state’s natural and cultural wealth while ensuring sustained livelihoods for its people.
The Minister stated, “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 the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make Meghalaya a connected, confident, and competitive State leading the Northeast’s journey toward Viksit Bharat @2047.
Prominent dignitaries present at the event included Shri Timothy D. Shira, Minister of Tourism; Shri Wailadmiki Shylla, Minister of Sports; Shri Sanbor Shullai, Minister of Arts and Culture; Shri Gavin Mylliemngap, MLA Sohra; Shri Titos Chyne, MDC Sohra; Shri Balajied Synrem, MLA Shella; and Shri Barikor Synrem, MDC Shella.
Earlier in the day, the Minister undertook a two-hour hike through Rangthylliang, home to the world’s longest living root bridge spanning over 50 meters. Experiencing Meghalaya’s Jingkieng Jri firsthand, the Minister reflected on the harmony between nature and human ingenuity, a true testament to sustainable living and the resilience nurtured over centuries.
Guided by local experts, the visit also included an interaction on the traditional practices of weaving and maintaining the living root bridges, showcasing how community wisdom continues to uphold ecological balance and preserve rich cultural heritage.
The Minister also visited the Mushroom Development Centre in Upper Shillong, where innovative local initiatives are empowering farmers, creating livelihoods and driving self-reliant, sustainable growth across the North East. The Minister underscored the region’s enduring spirit of enterprise and its commitment to eco-conscious development.