Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has announced two major projects to boost tourism and culture in Meghalaya. A ₹30 crore Meghalaya Living Root Centre will be built to preserve the state’s unique heritage of living root bridges. In addition, a ₹40 crore music retreat is being planned to promote Meghalaya as India’s music capital.
Both initiatives, the CM said, are aimed at elevating Meghalaya’s global profile as a destination for nature lovers and music enthusiasts. The projects were announced during a cultural gathering in Shillong where Sangma outlined the government’s vision for “sustainable cultural tourism.”
Meghalaya Living Root Centre to Preserve Unique Eco-Architecture
Announcing the ₹30 crore project, CM Sangma said the Meghalaya Living Root Centre will serve as a research, preservation, and education hub for the state’s iconic living root bridges. These bridges, which are formed by guiding the aerial roots of rubber trees, are centuries-old engineering marvels and a symbol of harmony with nature.
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The center will be built in the East Khasi Hills, close to famous bridges in villages like Nongriat and Mawlynnong. The CM emphasized that the project will not only boost eco-tourism but also engage local communities in maintaining and protecting this heritage.
He further explained that modern architecture will blend with traditional design, and local artisans will be involved in the construction. The facility will include a museum, interpretation center, trails, and live bridge training sites.
₹40 Crore Music Retreat to Cement Meghalaya’s Cultural Brand
Alongside the Living Root Centre, Sangma announced a ₹40 crore music retreat that will cater to artists, tourists, and musicians from across the country and abroad. “Meghalaya has always been known for its musical talent. This retreat will be a place where music meets nature,” he said.
The retreat will be located near Umiam Lake and will feature performance venues, recording studios, cottages, and music workshops. It will also host annual festivals that bring together artists from the Northeast and beyond.
CM Sangma said that the retreat is part of his larger vision to make Meghalaya a cultural tourism hotspot. “We are investing in ideas that are true to our identity,” he said.
CM Sangma Stresses Sustainable Tourism Development
The Chief Minister emphasized that these two projects will follow principles of sustainable tourism. “We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of over-commercialization. The Meghalaya Living Root Centre will be an example of how development and ecology can co-exist,” Sangma stated.
He added that local youth will be trained as eco-tourism guides, musicians, and cultural curators. This is part of the government’s skill-building and employment strategy. “We want tourism to benefit communities, not just companies,” he said.
The government has also tied up with environmental experts and architectural firms to ensure that the projects meet green building standards and minimize ecological footprints.
Local Response and Stakeholder Feedback
The announcement has been welcomed by residents and environmental activists alike. Community leaders in the Khasi and Jaintia hills praised the government’s focus on preserving indigenous practices and creating jobs locally.
Artist collectives in Shillong and Tura have expressed interest in partnering with the music retreat. They see it as a long-awaited opportunity to showcase Meghalaya’s rich musical diversity to global audiences.
However, some activists have urged the government to ensure transparency in construction and community involvement at every stage. CM Sangma responded by assuring that local governing bodies and traditional institutions will be part of the project committees.
A Broader Push for Cultural and Ecological Identity
Sangma has made cultural tourism a priority during his second term in office. These projects add to a growing list of initiatives such as the Megha Music Awards, Cherry Blossom Festival, and eco-resorts in Sohra and Garo Hills.
According to the CM, the Meghalaya Living Root Centre will also help promote awareness among school students and tourists about climate-resilient practices and the region’s fragile ecosystem.
He believes that preserving traditions is not just a cultural act, but also a form of climate action. “Our ancestors were climate warriors before the term existed,” Sangma said.
With the announcement of the Meghalaya Living Root Centre and the ₹40 crore music retreat, Meghalaya is poised to blend heritage, nature, and culture in its tourism approach. CM Sangma’s vision emphasizes sustainability, community inclusion, and long-term branding. If executed as promised, these projects could place Meghalaya at the forefront of India’s eco-cultural tourism.
