Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday inaugurated the Pine Home Eco-Sustainable Project at Mawlangwir village in South West Khasi Hills, underlining the state government’s focus on sustainable tourism, community participation and local economic development.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira were present at the event, while Sangma also remotely inaugurated the Twahlongwar Open-Air Museum in Mawsynram.
Sangma said Pine Home combines sustainability, local knowledge and modern innovation, with features including natural heating systems, recycled materials and rainwater conservation. Local artisans, craftsmen and workers were involved in its construction, with materials largely sourced locally.
The government invested around Rs 5.90 crore in the project through the Saitsnat Multipurpose Cooperative Society. The facility includes a restaurant and community hall, conference and training spaces, guest rooms and a Tourism Information Centre.
Sangma said the government aimed to develop South West Khasi Hills as a destination where visitors stay longer and contribute more to the local economy. He highlighted the CM Homestay Mission, which targets 3,000 homestays across Meghalaya by 2028.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the CM Research Grant, under which 48 scholars received support in its first year. Under the ‘Tracing the Roots’ initiative, 75 scholars will travel to Vietnam, Cambodia and Tibet to study the origins and journeys of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo people.
Sangma said the projects reflected the government’s commitment to balanced development across the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Hills, while promoting climate-resilient and community-led infrastructure across Meghalaya.
