The Meghalaya Government today formally handed over land for the construction of the Taj Umiam Resort & Spa near the Umiam Lake, marking what officials described as a major milestone in the state’s tourism plans. The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, GAD & C&RD Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, MTDC Chairman Marthon Sangma, and senior officers from various departments.
The Taj Umiam Resort & Spa will be a five-star property built at a cost of ₹330 crore. Officials said it will be the largest hospitality project ever taken up in Meghalaya. Government representatives explained that the resort will add to Shillong’s growing list of high-end hotels, with two five-star establishments already functioning and more being planned.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma recalled that his father, former Chief Minister Late P.A. Sangma, had visualised Umiam as a major tourism destination as far back as 1988. The Chief Minister said that the region’s present infrastructure has its roots in that early planning. “What was envisioned decades ago is now being taken to the next level,” he said. 
The Chief Minister thanked the Tourism Department, MTDC, and other stakeholders for pushing the project forward. He noted that the entry of the Taj brand would help transform Umiam and benefit the local economy. He said the project was expected to create jobs and business opportunities, and to support small enterprises in the region.
Officials noted that the Taj Umiam Resort & Spa is part of a larger tourism programme being implemented across the state. According to government figures, tourism currently contributes 7.7% to Meghalaya’s GSDP. The government hopes to raise the contribution to 8.8% by 2032 through sustained investment, improved connectivity, and policy support for private partnerships.
The Chief Minister said that Meghalaya welcomed close to 16 lakh visitors in 2024. He added that the number could cross 20 lakh tourists by 2028 if planned projects stay on schedule. He also stated that tourism has been officially recognised as an industry since 2018, making it easier to attract investments and collaborations.
Under various initiatives, the Government of Meghalaya is implementing 254 tourism infrastructure projects across the state at a total cost of ₹3,914.51 crore. Of these, 26 are high-value and experiential projects worth more than ₹1,400 crore. These include the Shillong Ropeway, the Mawkdok Skywalk, a cave experience centre at Mawmluh, and the Rain and Bamboo Interpretation Centre at Mawsynram. Officials said these projects are aimed at making tourism in Meghalaya more diverse and attractive for visitors.
Umiam is seen as a key location in the state’s tourism sector. Government representatives said the lake area serves as the first major stop for many travellers entering Meghalaya. The site is 17 km from Shillong and 14 km from the Umroi Airport. Officials said the area will now feature more facilities to support tourism growth. Over ₹500 crore has been earmarked for projects around Umiam, including luxury cottages under PPP mode, redevelopment of the lake area under the SASCI project, a convention centre, and expanded water sports and adventure tourism facilities. Officials said the area is being developed as a low-density, high-end destination in line with the state’s environmental priorities.
The Chief Minister said that the tourism push will not only focus on five-star hotels. He underlined the government’s plans for homestays and community-led tourism. Under the CM-Meghalaya Homestay Mission, the government provides subsidies of up to 70% for homestay development. Officials said the previous phase supported 800 homestays and created around 1,600 jobs. The current mission aims to develop 3,000 homestays by 2028.
Another recent achievement highlighted was the growth of the state’s concert economy. The Chief Minister said that between 2024 and 2025, seven major concerts attracted 3.86 lakh people. Public investment of ₹23.5 crore generated ₹133.42 crore in economic activity. Officials said the events helped create an estimated 5,500 jobs per day and benefited youth, homestay owners, freelancers, and women-led enterprises.
The Chief Minister also stressed the need to improve connectivity to tourism sites. He added that road upgrades, airport expansion, and last-mile connectivity remain top priorities in the coming years. Officials noted that increasing access is essential for sustaining growth in visitor numbers and attracting long-term investments.
Government representatives and experts present at the event said the Taj Umiam Resort & Spa will play a major role in shaping future tourism outcomes for Meghalaya. They said the launch confirms ongoing efforts to position the state as a premium destination offering natural beauty supported by improved infrastructure and services.
