Promoting sustainable tourism, empowering local communities: Conrad unveils ‘The Travellers Nest’ in Mawphlang

Shillong, Aug 16: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, along with Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Wednesday inaugurated tourism amenities named as “The Travellers Nest” at Kyiem village in Mawphlang, East Khasi Hills.

The Travellers Nest has five cottages and a restaurant to cater to the need of visitors.

The Kyiem Travelers’ Nest is a project funded by the Meghalaya Age Limited (MAL) through the Meghalaya Rural Tourism Cooperative Federation Ltd., with an investment of Rs. 94 lakhs.

Inaugurated the Kyiem Travellers’ Nest at Mawphlang. This project was funded by the @MeghAgeLtd through the Meghalaya Rural Tourism Cooperative Federation Ltd., with an investment of 94 lakhs and will be run by the community of Kyiem village.@kishanreddybjp @tourismgoi pic.twitter.com/oWLmArubGT

— Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) August 16, 2023

Mawphlang is known for its sacred grove, and is a sought after tourism destination, about 28 km from Shillong.

The inauguration marks a crucial milestone in the state government’s efforts to foster community participation to promote sustainable tourism.

Inaugurating the infrastructure, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of community engagement in driving the state’s economic model. “Our strength lies in community involvement, which we are leveraging for our economic model,” he emphasized.

Highlighting the collective responsibility of various stakeholders, including the government, community, and public at large, he said, “Meghalaya’s progress cannot be achieved in isolation. Every stakeholder has a role to play, and identifying these roles while keeping the ultimate goal in mind is crucial”.

Stressing that the Government is working to promote the strengths of Meghalaya as a shining example of sustainable economic growth driven by community strengths, he said, “We are building an economy and livelihood based on our state’s strengths. This model is one we wish to showcase to the world.”

Talking further on the tourism sector, the Chief Minister expressed his optimism about the role of initiatives like “The Travellers Nest.”

“Tourism is a key sector for us. Our goal is to create close to one lakh job opportunities in the sector through various interventions by stakeholders,” he added.

He also informed on the pivotal role of entrepreneurs in pushing the state’s development agenda forward and enlightened on the newly launched CM Elevate program.

Under the Chief Minister’s Elevate program, the Government is offering substantial subsidies ranging from 30% to 75% for projects initiated by different entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and other entities.

“The goal of the program is to invigorate the economy through diverse initiatives, from cinema halls to health clubs and tourism projects”, he added.

He also informed the gathering on the significance of improved road infrastructure in the State. He said that the ongoing improvement and construction of the road from Mawphlang to Weiloi is testimony of the Government’s commitment to prioritising road connectivity.

He expressed confidence that Meghalaya’s relentless efforts would result in a prosperous and sustainable future.

“We are on a path to success, and our progress is underpinned by community participation and collaboration. Together, we are shaping a brighter tomorrow for Meghalaya,” he exhorted.

During the programme, he flagged off eight Prime Tourism Vehicles.

Also read: Arts and Cultural Dept set up live display of garo village at Tura District Museum in Dakopgre

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