Meghalaya announces 70 per cent homestay subsidy; ₹130-Crore Holiday Inn Resort cleared in Tura

Meghalaya’s Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has launched a subsidy programme covering 70% of costs to encourage homestay development ahead of the National Games 2027. The initiative was revealed during a ceremonial transfer of land rights for the planned five-star Holiday Inn Resort at Hotel Polo Orchid in Tura, coordinated by the Tourism Department.

The subsidy will enable recipients to develop accommodation facilities that can double as sports hostels, with ownership retained post-event. “This solution addresses both infrastructure needs and creates sustainable income opportunities,” Sangma noted, emphasizing the importance of diverse lodging options from premium hotels to community-based establishments.

The government is actively improving regional connectivity through projects including Shillong’s runway extension, restoration of Tura Airport with ₹50 crore in state funding, new heliports, technology parks, medical education facilities, administrative complexes, and urban renewal programs.

Sangma highlighted the Holiday Inn Resort’s ₹130 crore development as transformative for Garo Hills, connecting it to the state’s economic strategy aiming for a $10 billion economy. The long-term roadmap envisions Meghalaya reaching a $150 billion economic scale by 2047 through tourism-focused growth.

Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira attended the event alongside other officials. The luxury resort project is anticipated to elevate the region’s hospitality standards and strengthen Meghalaya’s position as a premier northeastern travel destination.