Shillong, Nov 3: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday inaugurated the three-day Rising Sun Water Fest 2022 at Umiam Sports Complex.
Speaking during the inaugural address, Sangma said a water festival of such magnitude is being organised in the state for the first time. “Meghalaya is blessed with abundant natural beauty in terms of its water bodies. We are blessed with lakes waterfalls and environmental beauty yet we have not been able to take full advantage of it in terms of really allowing people to be part of it and enjoy it and also be able to create tourism opportunities out of it,” he added.
The chief minister asserted that despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the government has tried to take advantage of such natural assets and create livelihood opportunities while ensuring that Meghalaya becomes one of the most preferred tourist destinations.
Sangma also said that it is the endeavour of the government to make such events an international annual event.
The Indian Army and the government of Meghalaya as a part of Khelo India programme is organising the rowing and sailing event for the first time. The event will witness participation from elite pan India clubs. Various other attractions such as local cultural expo, food fest, art and craft exhibition along with water sports are some of the highlights of the water fest.
