Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma today inaugurated the Polo Orchid Annexe, a luxurious addition to the renowned Polo Orchid Resort in Sohra , in the presence of Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Paul Lyngdoh.
Other esteemed guests included Shri Gavin Mylliem, MLA Sohra, Shri Cyril VD Diengdoh, IAS, Director of Tourism,Govt of Meghalaya, Smt Saloni Verma, IAS, Sub Divisional Officer, Sohra, Shri Kenes Singh Khongwar, Sirdar of Mawsmai, Shri Kishan Tibrewalla, Chairman of Polo Towers Group, and few headmen from a few villages.
Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma said,”Many years back, this would have seemed impossible, but with the inauguration of the annexe, it’s clear that today’s traveler looks for uniqueness in culture, food, and local traditions. The Polo Tower Group has been able to bring out this experience.”
He further emphasized, “It’s not about the investments, but about providing a unique experience. Tourism is one of the core sectors in boosting the state’s economy.”
Sangma informed that Meghalaya’s tourism industry has witnessed significant growth, with the economic size increasing from $4.7 billion to $6.5 billion in five years. He expressed with confidence, the commitment towards reaching a $10 billion economy.
The Chief Minister highlighted the investments and job creation milestones and said that an investment of Rs 2000 crores has been made in the last three years. Rs 4000 crores has been allocated for the next five years. He added that 1 lakh jobs will be created in the next five years.
Sangma emphasised the promotion of mice-tourism. Sangma added that the State Government is planning various programs in Sohra to boost tourism, leveraging its diverse culture as a strength and identity.
“Our diverse culture is our strength, not just an identity… Meghalaya is on the right track,”Hon’ble Chief Minister Sangma concluded.
Tourism Minister Shri Paul Lyngdoh stated that the inauguration of the annex will propel exponential growth in the tourism sector. He noted that tourism has been the key driver of growth in Sohra, particularly after the closure of the MCCL cement factory, which had previously impacted the local economy.
Lyngdoh highlighted the recent success of a series of festivals like Cherry Blossom Fest and programs that have elevated Meghalaya’s global presence. He also announced that Meghalaya will participate in promoting sustainable tourism in Gujarat next February.
As the first administrative town in Northeast India, Sohra has experienced significant growth, thanks to tourism. Lyngdoh emphasised that Sohra should fully immerse visitors in the region’s unique culture, customs, and cuisine through sustainable tourism practices.
Shri Kishan Tibrewalla, Chairman of Polo Towers Group, emphasised that the inauguration of the annexe serves as a testament to the company’s goal of preserving Sohra’s natural beauty. He also asserted that the group’s objective is to establish the resort as one of the top 10 resorts in the country, through collective efforts that prioritise sustainable tourism and generate employment opportunities.
Notably, the Polo Orchid Annexe boasts 58 elegantly designed rooms and suites, includin 2 Sky Pool Villas (2000 sq. ft. each) with private infinity pools, Ground floor Waterfall Pool Suite Rooms (600 sq. ft.) with private pools in balconies 18 Waterfall Deck Suites (550 sq. ft.) with private balconies and Victorian-style bathtubs, 5 Sohra Family Suites (500 sq. ft.) with private bathtubs, Mawsmai Ball Room (Banquet Hall): 6200 sq. ft., capacity for 250 people
The state of the art amenities include fine dining restaurant, stunning views of the surrounding landscape, enhanced conference and event facilities and employment opportunities for local residents.