Meghalaya is transforming its tourism landscape by empowering local families through homestay initiatives. The state, recently named the most-searched travel destination in India by Skyscanner's 2025 Report, is experiencing a surge in tourist arrivals, with numbers rising from 12 lakhs in 2018 to over 16 lakhs today. To accommodate this growth, the government launched the Meghalaya Tourism Homestay Scheme in September 2023, providing up to 70% financial assistance for projects costing up to $12,000 (₹10 lakhs). This initiative has already resulted in 490 operational homestays, creating 1,000 rooms and 1,500 livelihood opportunities.

Building on this success, the Chief Minister's Meghalaya Homestay Mission was introduced in September 2025, targeting 3,000 new homestays and 15,000 jobs by 2028. The scheme offers up to 70% subsidies for new homestays and incentives for existing ones to enhance quality. Already, 80 applications have been approved across 10 districts, reflecting widespread participation.

Local entrepreneurs like Daminot Kharshandi and Donny Esmond Rapsang have benefited significantly. Kharshandi noted, "The Homestay Scheme gave me the financial confidence to launch my business." Rapsang's Friendship Homestay, supported by over $10,800 (₹9 lakh) in assistance, has created local employment opportunities.

These initiatives align with the state's strategy to distribute tourism's economic benefits widely, as emphasised by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. The upcoming 39th National Games in 2027 will further spotlight this approach, with plans to accommodate visitors in homestays, placing local families at the forefront of the event

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