High-Level Task Force on Northeast Tourism to be Chaired by Meghalaya CM
Northeast Tourism Task Force Meeting
File image of Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma (Photo: X)
Shillong, June 3: On June 4, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma will lead a high-level task force focused on tourism in the Northeast during the 73rd plenary session of the North Eastern Council (NEC).
During this session, Sangma plans to present the task force's findings, discussing both the strengths and challenges facing tourism in the region, while proposing strategies to enhance its appeal as a travel destination.
"I will be chairing the tourism task force and we will present our insights tomorrow. The Northeast has significant potential as a tourism market," Sangma stated.
The NEC has established various task forces addressing sectors such as youth, infrastructure, and trade, with discussions to be led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya Scindia, along with Chief Ministers, Governors, and senior officials from all eight northeastern states, will also attend the meeting.
"I anticipate a wide range of consultations and active participation across key sectors. The DoNER Minister has initiated task forces for different areas in the Northeast, encouraging collaboration among states," Sangma added.
In his presentation, Sangma is expected to showcase the unique tourism opportunities of each state, advocating for a collective approach to promote the region rather than isolated efforts by individual states.
The tourism industry in Meghalaya has seen significant growth in recent years, and success stories from both Meghalaya and other states will likely be highlighted as models for replication elsewhere.
Additionally, the task force will aim to tackle fundamental weaknesses in certain states, particularly in areas such as communication, infrastructure, skilled workforce, and financial resources.
Following the NEC plenary, Union Health Minister JP Nadda is scheduled to visit the state capital on June 5, with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expected to visit later this month.