In a significant move to improve visitor experience and safety, the Meghalaya government has introduced the Tourism Buddy Scheme—a fresh initiative aimed at making travel across the state’s most popular destinations more seamless and safe. Under this scheme, the government will station trained local youth across high-footfall tourist spots like Shillong, Sohra (Cherrapunjee), Dawki, and Mawlynnong, where they will assist, guide, and support travellers to ensure they feel welcome, informed, and safe throughout their journey.
What Is The Tourist Buddies Scheme?
Meghalaya’s new people-first initiative, the Tourist Buddies Scheme, trains over 70 local youths to become tourism ambassadors and ensure that visitors feel welcomed with warmth, safety, and support. They will be present at high-footfall spots such as Laitlum Canyon, Ward’s Lake, Arwah and Mawsmai Caves, Krangsuri Waterfalls, and more.
This training is being handled by the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Meghalaya and includes skills like basic communication, first aid, navigation, and cultural etiquette. By equipping locals with these tools, the government hopes to create a support system for tourists while simultaneously generating livelihood opportunities for the youth.
Why This Move Matters
Tourism in Meghalaya has been on the rise, with its lush landscapes, pristine waterfalls, and living root bridges attracting visitors from across the globe. However, the state has also faced challenges around unregulated tourism, safety concerns, and a lack of on-ground assistance.
The Tourist Buddies Scheme addresses this gap. Not only will tourists feel more secure and better informed, but locals will also play a more direct role in shaping the tourism narrative of their communities. This adds a human touch to travel, allowing deeper cultural exchange and trust-building.
A Step Towards Responsible Tourism
With strategic deployment planned around the upcoming festive and holiday season, including events like the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival, the scheme couldn’t come at a better time. Meghalaya’s Tourism Ministe,r Paul Lyngdoh also reviewed infrastructure projects worth over ₹400 crore to complement this initiative, ensuring that the tourism experience is both safe and memorable.
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The Tourist Buddies scheme is more than a safety net—it’s a heartfelt welcome to the world. One that puts people at the heart of travel.
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