Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia 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 Rs 2.33 billion in Meghalaya. The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Shri Conrad Sangma, senior officials, and tourism stakeholders. Speaking on the occasion, Shri 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 freedom of progress.” He reaffirmed the Government of India’s 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 past decade has transformed the Northeast from a “landlocked region” into a “land-linked powerhouse.” He highlighted that over Rs 6.2 trillion has been channelled into the region through the 10 per cent Gross Budgetary Support policy, driving connectivity, enterprise, and empowerment. Meghalaya, he added, has emerged as a major beneficiary, achieving 12 to 16 per cent growth in the post-pandemic years through targeted investments in infrastructure, air connectivity, and tourism. Among key infrastructure projects, Shri Scindia cited the 166.8 km Shillong–Silchar Greenfield Expressway worth Rs 228.6 billion, and the expansion of Umroi Airport, which will enable larger aircraft operations and significantly increase flight frequency. He also highlighted that New Shillong City is envisioned as a smart-green township and a knowledge hub for the region. The Integrated Sohra Circuit, conceptualised jointly by the Ministry of DoNER and the Government of Meghalaya, is among the most ambitious tourism projects in the Northeast. With total investments exceeding Rs 6.5 billion, including Rs 2.21 billion under MDoNER, the project aims to transform Sohra (Cherrapunji) into a multi-day experiential tourism destination rooted in sustainability and community-based livelihoods. At the heart of the circuit lies the Sohra Experience Centre at Kutmadan, being developed at an investment of Rs 1.15 billion, which will showcase Meghalaya’s rich tribal heritage through amphitheatres, rain experience parks, art galleries, and craft pavilions. Supporting projects include the Nohkalikai Falls precinct (Rs 260 million), Mawsmai Eco Park (Rs 290 million), Seven Sisters Falls Viewpoint, Shella Riverside Development, and Wahkaliar Canyon, which will offer adventure tourism activities such as hot-air balloon rides. Collectively, these developments are projected to increase tourist spending sixfold and generate over 4,600 direct and indirect jobs. Additionally, several key infrastructure projects were inaugurated to strengthen connectivity and trade: Pynursla–Latangriwan–Mawlynnong Road (Rs 299.7 million) – providing all-weather access to Asia’s cleanest village and boosting cross-border tourism. Mawshynrut–Hahim (Athiabari) Road (Rs 997.6 million) – upgraded to improve agricultural connectivity in western Meghalaya. Bridge over the Umngot River (Rs 218.6 million) – linking East Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills to ease the movement of goods and people. Shri Scindia noted that the Umroi Airport runway extension and the Shillong Western Bypass will soon reduce travel time between Guwahati and Sohra to about four hours, strengthening regional access to tourism and trade hubs. He 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 initiatives, in collaboration with the Meghalaya Skills Development Society and IHM Shillong, are already underway to train local youth in hospitality, safety, and eco-tourism management. Concluding his remarks, Shri Scindia said, “Meghalaya stands today at the confluence of heritage and hope. These projects are not merely 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 North East’s journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047.