Pine Home initiative in South West Khasi Hills combines local knowledge, sustainable infrastructure and tourism development.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has highlighted the Pine Home Eco-Sustainable Project in Mawlangwir village, South West Khasi Hills, as an example of how tourism infrastructure can support both environmental conservation and community-led economic development.
Sangma inaugurated the project and said it demonstrates how traditional knowledge can be combined with modern innovation to develop facilities while protecting the surrounding natural environment. The project incorporates features such as natural heating systems, recycled materials and rainwater conservation.
Local communities at the centre
Local artisans and workers were involved in developing the facility, with a substantial portion of the construction materials sourced locally. According to the Chief Minister, this approach can help retain indigenous skills while ensuring that economic benefits generated by development remain within the local community.
The Pine Home project was developed at an investment of around INR 5.90 crore through the Saitsnat Multipurpose Cooperative Society. Its facilities include a restaurant and community hall, conference and training spaces, guest rooms and a Tourism Information Centre.
Focus on longer tourist stays
Sangma said the state government aims to develop South West Khasi Hills as a destination where visitors spend more time and contribute more significantly to the local economy.
He also pointed to the CM Homestay Mission, through which the Meghalaya government plans to establish 3,000 homestays across the state by 2028. The initiative is intended to create employment and additional income opportunities for local communities.
Development beyond Shillong
During the programme, Sangma also remotely inaugurated the Twahlongwar Open-Air Museum in Mawsynram. He said the two initiatives reflect the government's broader approach of extending development beyond Shillong and ensuring that the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills progress alongside one another.
The Chief Minister described Pine Home as a potential “living laboratory” for developing climate-resilient infrastructure, while the open-air museum could function as a “living classroom”. He said the experience could inform future projects such as schools, healthcare facilities, eco-lodges and homestays across Meghalaya.
Research and cultural initiatives
Sangma also highlighted the Chief Minister’s Research Grant, which has supported 48 scholars during its first year. Under the government’s ‘Tracing the Roots’ initiative, 75 scholars are scheduled to travel to Vietnam, Cambodia and Tibet to research the origins and journeys of the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo communities.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, Chief Secretary Shakil P. Ahammed, traditional leaders, government officials, and community representatives attended the event.
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