Shillong/IBNS: The Megahalaya Government plans to provide electric vehicles and SUVs at subsidized rates within the next few months, in order to enhance the tourism sector of Megahalaya.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced this initiative during the distribution of 16 Toyota Innova cars to tour operators under the 'PRIME Tourism Vehicles scheme,' reported EastMojo.

The objective behind subsidizing high-end vehicles is to bolster transportation facilities, attract more tourists, and create employment opportunities for the state's youth.

The government aims to distribute a total of 50 cars this fiscal year and anticipates providing around 250 to 300 vehicles over its five-year term. The scheme also encourages travel agencies and stakeholders to offer soft skill training to drivers.

The tourism industry in Meghalaya, which contributes approximately 4.1% to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), supports the livelihoods of nearly 50,000 individuals. Through a meticulous assessment process, 47 beneficiaries were selected from over 600 applicants in the scheme's first phase.