Meghalaya’s strengths :
The State of Meghalaya was carved out of Assam as an autonomous State in April 1970 and was declared a full-fledged State in January 1972. Meghalaya, situated in the northeastern region (NER) of India is a narrow stretch of land, running between Bangladesh on the South and West and Assam on the North and East. Meghalaya's advantageous position is further strengthened by the upcoming BBIN2 Corridor. This corridor will transform Meghalaya into a crucial connecting node for Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Further, its proximity to the Bay of Bengal underscores its potential to become a major trade hub for the NER.
The State, known forits natural beauty and cultural richness, has demonstrated a remarkable economic journey from the late 20th century into the present day. It hasseen its GDP rise from approximately USD 3.16 billion in FY15 to a significant USD 5.9 billion in FY24. This growth has been sustained despite facing substantial challenges in the form of a National Green Tribunal ban on coal mining in the middle of the previous decade followed by the global pandemicin 2020.
The State's abundance of natural resources, including water, coal, limestone, and uranium, provides a solid foundation for various industries to thrive. Meghalaya's agricultural sector is another significant strength, with its rich soil and favorable climate making it an ideal location for farming and allied activities. The State is also home to a vibrant tourism industry, with its unique culture, breathtaking scenery, and potential for eco-tourism. Furthermore, Meghalaya has a growing IT sector, with a focus on software development and BPO, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
The State's skilled workforce, rich cultural heritage, and potential for mineral-based industries, food processing, and renewable energy make it an attractive destination for businesses and investors. By leveraging these strengths, Meghalaya isdiversifying its economy, attracting investments, and driving business and industrial growth.
State Demography :
Discover the key demographic and economic indicators shaping Meghalaya's landscape. From population statistics to export growth, explore the state's dynamic profile in a glance.
Key Demographic:
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Total Population (2011)
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Air Quality (AQI of capitals)
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Sex Ratio (Per 1000 males)
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Mobile Connections per 100 Person (2023)
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Internet subscribers per 100 population (2023)
Economic Indicators
Export Growth (2017 to 2022)
GSDP (2024-2025-Projected)
GSDP Growth (2023 to 2025)
Labour force participation rate
Women’s participation in the workforce (Rural)
Women’s participation in the workforce (Urban)
Connectivity :
Meghalaya's connectivity is key to its development. With extensive road, rail, and air networks, the state ensures
seamless transportation for growth and accessibility.
- Road Network : 13,000 km
- Road Density : 0.48 km/sq. km density
- Ongoing developments : SARDP, PMGSY, and Shillong Smart-city programs
- Ongoing projects linking Meghalaya with Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim
- Regular service connecting Mendipathar and Guwahati density
- Railhead at Mendipathar
- Airport at Umroi (30 km from Shillong)
- Helicopter service connecting Shillong to Guwahati and Tura density
- Guwahati airport (118 km from Shillong)
- Additional helipads and heliports planned across the state
Unique Strengths and Opportunities :
Meghalaya presents abundant opportunities for growth and development across various sectors. From its natural resources to emerging industries, the state offers a fertile ground for investment and progress.
Abundant flora, fauna, forests, medicinal plants, minerals (coal, limestone, quartz, feldspar, granite, industrial clay, sillimanite, uranium)
High-value crops like Strawberry, Ginger, Lakadong turmeric, Honey, black pepper, Potato, Jackfruit, Pineapple, Areca Nut, and exotic flowers
Most state produce is naturally organic – Replace with “Meghalaya, with its pristine environment, rich soil, and favorable climate, is a haven for organic produce, offering a diverse range of chemical-free and sustainably grown crops, including fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs”.
Mineral-based industry, horticulture and agro-based industry, electronics and IT, export-oriented units, tourism, and emerging service sectors
Meghalaya Growth Path :
GI Tags of Meghalaya :