Meghalaya Adventure Tourism Scheme

Meghalaya Adventure Tourism Scheme promotes the state as a premier eco-adventure hub by providing financial support, training, and equipment subsidies to local entrepreneurs and community groups. This scheme helps residents build sustainable tourism businesses while keeping safety and environmental standards, creating new livelihood opportunities across the region.

Meghalaya government runs this scheme under the Chief Minister's CM-ELEVATE Program to turn the state into a leading eco-adventure destination. Department of Tourism implements the scheme to help local people turn nature into a steady income.

Meghalaya Adventure Tourism Scheme - Introduction

Meghalaya Adventure Tourism Scheme removes common problems like high equipment costs, limited access to credit, and safety concerns. By offering 75% capital subsidies, credit linkage, professional training, and eco-friendly infrastructure support, the government actively helps applicants succeed. Whether an individual entrepreneur or a community group, the scheme covers activities such as caving, rafting, and paragliding while making sure environmental and safety benchmarks are followed.

The scheme supports applicants through a clear structure of subsidy, loan, training, and market exposure. This makes it easier for local people to start or grow an adventure tourism business without carrying the full financial load on their own.

Key Information

Benefits

Applicants can get the following support under this scheme:

1. Equipment Subsidy: Government supports 75% of the total equipment cost, with a 75% front-ended subsidy and the applicant contributing only 5%.
2. Credit Access: Get credit linkage through partner banks like Meghalaya Rural Bank, MCAB, SBI, and Shillong Co-operative Urban Bank.
3. Loan Terms: Apply for a loan of up to 20% of the project cost, repayable over a 2-year term, including a 6-month moratorium period.
4. Infrastructure Support: Scheme provides money help for eco-friendly setups, including eco-campsites, bio-toilets, and safety signage.
5. Training & Certification: Get funds for certification from national bodies such as IMF or NIWS.
6. Skill Development: Attend workshops on first aid, CPR, wilderness rescue, and customer service.
7. Market Exposure: Benefit from promotion on official Meghalaya Tourism channels and networking at tourism marts.

Eligibility

For Individuals

1. Applicant should be between 18 and 58 years of age.
2. Must be a permanent resident of Meghalaya.
3. Should be actively involved in adventure tourism (for example, operating 4x4 vehicles).
4. Must have a valid ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
5. Should not be a credit defaulter with any banking institution.
6. For the 4x4 category, must have experience as a commercial driver.

For Registered and Unregistered Entities

1. Entity must hold a valid Incorporation or Registration Certificate.
2. Must be based in Meghalaya and actively operating in the tourism sector.
3. Entity must have an active bank account with the last 6 months of statements available.
4. Key office bearers must provide valid government ID proof.
5. Entity must not be a credit defaulter.
6. Must provide proof of land ownership or a formal lease agreement for the site.

Exclusions

Applications are generally not considered for the following groups:

• Political pressure groups and organizations.
• More than one member from the same family.
• State or Central Government employees.
• Employees of public sector undertakings (PSUs).
• Elected representatives like MLAs, MLCs, or MPs.
• Registered Class-1 contractors.
• Current consultants for the State or Central Government.

Application Process

Online Application

Applicants should follow these steps to apply for the scheme:

STEP 1 - Visit the official website and select the Login to Apply option.

STEP 2 - If you are a first-time user, complete the Registration for New User.

STEP 3 - Choose your authentication method, such as PDS (Ration Card) or EPIC (Voter ID).

STEP 4 - Enter your details, validate your credentials, and fill out the online form.

STEP 5 - Upload all requested documents and submit your application to receive a unique reference number.

Sign In

Once registered, you can log in any time using your mobile number or ID to track your progress or submit additional service requests under the scheme.

Documents

Required documents for Individuals:

• Identity proof (Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
• PAN Card.
• Last 6 months bank statement or cancelled cheque.
• Ration Card (if applicable).
• Land ownership deed or lease agreement.
• NOC from forest or traditional bodies (where applicable).
• Site map and photographs.
• Training certificates and experience proof.
• Self-declaration form/certificate.

Additional items for Entities:

• Organization Registration Certificate.
• PAN Card of the entity.
• GST Certificate (if applicable).
• Governing body resolution authorizing the application.
• List of members/directors and formal bye-laws or partnership deeds.

References

View Official Scheme Guidelines here.

FAQ's

What is the Meghalaya Adventure Tourism Scheme?

It is a scheme under the CM-ELEVATE program to boost sustainable tourism, offering financial support for equipment and training to adventure tourism operators.

What financial help will I receive?

You can get a 75% subsidy on equipment and access to loans covering up to 20% of your project cost, payable with a 6-month moratorium.

Are there training programs included?

Yes, the scheme funds professional training and certifications from recognized bodies like the IMF or NIWS for activities like caving and rafting.

Who is eligible to apply?

Permanent residents of Meghalaya between 18 and 58 years old who are active in the adventure tourism sector can apply, provided they are not bank defaulters.

Which activities are supported?

Examples include caving, rafting, trekking, and 4x4 off-roading adventures.