Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Tuesday stressed on leveraging the tourism potential of heritage sites in Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya, and added that there is a plan to open a small museum in a portion of the historic old Assembly building in the capital city.
Sangma said this in response to a query from PTI held on the sidelines of the 11th International Tourism Mart that kicked off this evening in Shillong.
Shillong, which was the capital of undivided Assam, is nicknamed the ‘Scotland of the East’ and is known for its historical importance and pristine natural beauty
The three-day Mart seeks to put the focus on the tourism potential of the northeast, particularly Meghalaya which is the host state.
“I think a generic policy to ensure that these kinds of heritage sites are promoted from a tourist aspect, is definitely part of the overall strategy,” he said.
“What is important is that we are bringing in different stakeholders together and really trying to discuss and connect different dots together out here. So, that is the purpose of today’s programme,” he said.
As per the Ministry of Tourism data, 16 projects have been sanctioned in the North East states under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme costing INR 1309 crore. A total of 15 tourist destinations are also being taken up in the region for development under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0 with an objective to develop sustainable and responsible destinations with a tourist and destination-centric approach.
“The Legislative Assembly building site (in Shillong)… you are aware that the Assembly (building) got burnt almost about 20 years back. And therefore not much left of it. But we have not touched it, and left it as it is because we had to do some of the assembly work there,” he said during a press interaction. “But as soon as we shift to the new assembly site whose construction is going on… By September 2024, we expect to inaugurate it,” he said.
Sangma said the old building, a British era structure, was used in undivided Assam and has a lot of history, he added.
“Definitely we have a plan along with the Speaker to have a small museum or some kind of a site there where we could have some section of the area – maybe not the whole area,” Sangma said.
Raj Bhavan building and Rabindranath Tagore’s house also have heritage value, the chief minister said, adding that there are many such sites.
Asked about the state’s strategy to balance tourism-related development and environment protection, he said the state has been focussing on sustainable tourism and ecotourism.
The government is also ensuring that it creates policies that do not put enormous pressure on certain tourist sites, Sangma said.
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In recent years, the startup ecosystem has transformed industries worldwide by introducing innovative and convenient solutions that have significantly improved people’s lives. The travel industry, too, has experienced this wave of innovation, and it has had a profound impact on small and medium-sized travel agencies.
With a focus on convenience, these innovations have made the seemingly impossible a reality. Today, travel start-ups are revolutionising the way small and mid-sized travel agents access cost-effective, fast, and secure payment solutions, enabling them to compete more effectively in the market.
The Indian travel agency business is predominantly composed of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). With nearly 3 lakh travel agent businesses catering to holidaymakers, the industry’s post-pandemic revival and improved infrastructure have greatly benefited these smaller businesses.
Travel trade associations’ conventions have traditionally been platforms for industry players to connect and exchange ideas. While this remains a crucial aspect, the purpose of these events is evolving. Conventions now serve as accelerators for innovation, providing a space for the discussion of trends, technologies, and strategies that can redefine the industry.
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UPI payments revolution: Traditionally, online payments for businesses required significant working capital, putting MSMEs at a disadvantage. However, the rise of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has been a game-changer. Travel start-ups are often more open to accepting payments through UPI, making it easier for smaller agents to collect and make payments without the need for substantial working capital.
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According to a recent survey by Uber India, the ride-sharing giant has not only revolutionised the way women in India travel but has also significantly influenced their daily routines and decisions regarding vehicle ownership. The increased convenience has resulted in 47 per cent of women feeling that exploring new places and attending events has become easier.
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Travel start-ups have ushered in a new era of possibilities for small and medium-sized travel agencies. They offer these agencies access to cost-effective, fast, and secure payment solutions, leveling the playing field against larger OTAs. As the travel industry continues to evolve, these start-ups will play an increasingly vital role in shaping its future, ensuring that travellers and businesses alike enjoy the benefits of innovation, convenience, and efficiency.
The author is co-founder & CEO, TravClan
DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and ETTravelWorld.com does not necessarily subscribe to it. ETTravelWorld.com shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person/organisation directly or indirectly.
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