Shillong: With an aim to promote both tourism and water sports in Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday inaugurated the state’s first-ever sailing yacht, Meghalinor, at Umiam Lake.
The launch event was attended by Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, Commissioner & Secretary for Tourism Vijay Kumar D, and Tourism Director C.V. Diengdoh.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister highlighted the dual significance of the initiative, which he said brings together two key sectors — tourism and sports — under a unified vision.
“Whether it’s tourism or sports, we are working toward common goals of creating employment, generating livelihood opportunities, and placing youth at the heart of our development efforts,” he said.
Sangma noted that with nearly 50 percent of the state’s population under the age of 20, the government must lay a strong foundation to ensure future opportunities for the younger generation.
“This is not just a symbolic launch, but a step toward realising the untapped potential of Umiam Lake,” he added.
Emphasising the lake’s scenic value and suitability for water-based recreation, the chief minister said that various interventions are already underway to transform Umiam into a leading water sports and tourism destination in the Northeast.
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These include sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and infrastructure development aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.
“The area will be developed into one of the premier resort locations in the eastern region. Today’s launch is a small but significant step in that direction,” Sangma said.
He also praised Meghalaya’s athletes who have earned recognition in national kayaking and canoeing events, expressing confidence that Umiam could soon emerge as a hub for competitive water sports.
