Tura, Feb 11: The Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, organised the Land Handover Ceremony for the proposed Holiday Inn Resort, Tura, by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) at Hotel Polo Orchid, Tura.
The programme 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.
The ceremonial handover of land was carried out in the presence of the dignitaries.In his keynote address, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma described the occasion as both historic and deeply personal. “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. “Though it may appear to be just a one-star difference, the gap between a four-star and a five-star hotel is significant,” he said, explaining that investment levels, design standards, facilities, and ecosystem requirements differ substantially.
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. “If I have this one opportunity to make that decision, it will be a five-star hotel, come what may.”
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, he 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 that the Government of Meghalaya is coming up with an innovative scheme for the National Games 2027 with the concept of a “Homestay-cum-Games Village.”
Under the scheme, 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.
“This innovative approach will not only solve the issue of accommodation, especially in places like Tura and Jowai during the Games, but will also create entrepreneurship and livelihoods for our people,” he said.
Emphasising the need for a diversified hospitality ecosystem, he stated, “Meghalaya should be able to cater to all kinds of tourists visiting the State, hence the need for different kinds of hotels and homestays.”
“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 repair and revival of Tura Airport with expected UDAN operations, heliport development, the upcoming IT Park, medical college, Additional Secretariat, and key urban beautification projects. “All this is ecosystem development,” he said.
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.”
He assured that the agreement contains strong employment provisions and that the “project must benefit our people first.” Concluding, he said, “Together, let us build not just a hotel—but a stronger future for Tura, Garo Hills, and Meghalaya.”
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.
“Our objective is clear: build strong core infrastructure first so that tourism growth remains sustainable, environmentally responsible, and community-driven,” he emphasised.
He added that as tourist arrivals increase, the need for high-quality premium accommodation has become more evident, and this project addresses that long-standing gap while complementing community-based tourism initiatives such as the Chief Minister’s Homestay Scheme.
“With today’s land handover, we take another important step forward. As infrastructure strengthens and iconic destinations take shape, Garo Hills is poised to enter a new era of sustainable tourism, regional economic opportunity, and inclusive growth,” he concluded.
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.
He stated that the project marks an important milestone for the region’s hospitality sector and reaffirmed IHG’s commitment to being an active partner in Tura’s growth.
He emphasised that the group aims to generate both direct and indirect employment opportunities for local communities and nurture hospitality talent from within the region. He further stated that IHG seeks to integrate Meghalaya’s rich heritage and culture into the design and service philosophy of the hotel, thereby providing guests with an authentic experience reflective of the State’s identity.
Earlier, Vibhor Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, delivered the welcome address and highlighted that the five-star hotel project reflects the State Government’s vision to unlock the tourism and economic potential of Tura and the Garo Hills region.
He noted that with Tura witnessing steady urban growth and rising tourist interest, the development of quality hospitality infrastructure has become essential. A short film showcasing projects and initiatives of Meghalaya Tourism was screened during the programme.
The programme also featured musical and cultural performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Brenda Lee Pakyntein, MCS, Joint Secretary and Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya.
