Tura: The Meghalaya Government on Wednesday formally handed over land for the proposed Holiday Inn Resort in Tura, to be developed by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), marking a major step in strengthening hospitality infrastructure in the region.
The land handover ceremony, organised at the Hotel Palo Orchid, Tura, was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma as Chief Guest, in the presence of Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira and Minister for PHE, Soil & Water Conservation and Housing, Marcuise N. Marak, along with senior government officials, representatives of IHG, and other stakeholders.
Chief Minister Sangma described the occasion as both historic and deeply personal and said, “I am sure many of us could not have imagined that Tura itself would host a five-star hotel,” he remarked.
He shared that the decision to opt for a five-star property instead of a four-star hotel involved detailed deliberations. With an investment of nearly ₹130 crore, the project represents a major leap for the region.
“When the decision came before me—whether to go for the more immediately viable four-star option or take the leap to a five-star hotel—I had no doubt in my mind,” he stated.
Responding to critics who question the need for premium hospitality infrastructure, he said development must be holistic. “We need roads. We need hospitals. We need schools. We need drinking water. And yes—we need hotels.”
Placing the project within the State’s broader economic vision, he recalled the launch of Mission 10 in 2019 to transform Meghalaya into a $10 billion economy.
“When we took over, our economy was less than $4 billion. Today, we are approaching $7 billion. Very soon, we will reach $10 billion,” he said. He explained that the strategy is anchored in “10 Opportunities and 10 Commitments,” combining private investment, tourism, arts and culture, sports, urban transformation and the creative economy with commitments to connectivity, piped water, reliable power, internet access, healthcare, nutrition and social welfare.
The State estimates that ₹8,000 crore in private investment is required to achieve its growth targets, with the ₹130 crore hotel project forming part of that roadmap.
Highlighting fiscal growth, CM Sangma noted that Meghalaya’s annual expenditure has increased from ₹6,811 crore in 2014 to ₹23,475 crore in 2025, while capital investment has risen from ₹1,259 crore to ₹6,395 crore. He clarified that borrowings remain within prescribed limits, with growth driven by increased state revenues and higher central tax devolution.
“A five-star hotel is not just about luxury—it is an economic engine,” he said. “It brings conferences. It brings tourists. It brings official meetings and corporate gatherings. People come, people stay, people spend—and when that happens, the local economy benefits.”
The Chief Minister also announced an innovative Homestay-cum-Games Village” scheme for the National Games 2027, under which beneficiaries will receive 70 percent subsidy support to establish homestays in the form of sports hostels conforming to Games guidelines. After the Games, the homestays will belong to the beneficiaries to run and operate.
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Emphasising the need for a diversified hospitality ecosystem, he stated, “We need five-star hotels for high-end tourists, distinguished guests and VVIPs, and homestays for those who wish to experience local culture, food and lifestyle. Hence, we need all kinds of hotels and homestays,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister also outlined major connectivity and infrastructure initiatives, including runway expansion in Shillong, the State-funded ₹50 crore repairs and revival of Tura Airport with expected UDAN operations, heliport development, the upcoming IT Park, medical college, Additional Secretariat, and key urban beautification projects.
Looking ahead, he articulated a long-term vision of transforming Meghalaya into a $150 billion economy by 2047. “Today, we are laying foundations—not just for the next 10 years—but for the next 50 to 100 years,” he said.
Addressing IHG, he extended his best wishes but set clear expectations. “I will be monitoring this project very closely. If deadlines are not met, I will be tough. Delays will not be entertained.”
Addressing the gathering, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira described the land handover as a defining milestone in Meghalaya’s tourism journey.
“Today marks a significant step forward as we formally hand over the land of the existing Hotel Polo site,” he stated. He informed that the existing structures will be dismantled and replaced with a five-star hotel built to international standards.
Addressing the gathering, Gautam Tyagi, Representative of InterContinental Hotels Group, expressed appreciation to the Government of Meghalaya for the opportunity to establish the first branded hotel in Tura.
A short film showcasing projects and initiatives of Meghalaya Tourism was screened during the programme.
