Has Meghalaya Unveiled a Rs 6.6 Crore Scholarship for Aspiring Hospitality Students?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Investment of Rs 6.6 crore for hospitality education.
- Supports 165 students over five years.
- Tuition fees fully covered by the government.
- No age restrictions for applicants.
- Emphasizes youth empowerment in the hospitality sector.
Shillong, Sep 2 (NationPress) The government of Meghalaya has officially introduced the Chief Minister Hospitality Scholarship Programme (CMHSP), committing an investment of Rs 6.6 crore to assist 165 students in pursuing a B.Sc degree in Hospitality and Hotel Management over the upcoming five years.
During the launch in Shillong, State Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh emphasized that this initiative is designed to motivate the youth to engage in the hospitality industry and prepare them for international career opportunities.
"The aim is to cultivate talent, enhance professional training in hospitality, and develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting the industry's increasing demands," stated Lyngdoh.
Under this program, the Meghalaya government will cover 100 percent of tuition fees for students enrolling in the B.Sc (Hospitality and Hotel Management) program at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Shillong.
The initiative will benefit 165 students across three consecutive batches, with 55 students selected annually, one from each block.
Lyngdoh mentioned that the total investment by the government over five years would amount to Rs 6.6 crore, translating to approximately Rs 3.6 lakh per student.
"This initiative demonstrates our dedication to empowering youth and fostering sustainable employment opportunities in the hospitality sector," he noted.
Eligibility criteria require applicants to be permanent residents of Meghalaya, have completed Class XII with English as a subject, and belong to families with an annual income of less than Rs 3 lakh.
Furthermore, there will be no age restrictions for applicants.
Selections will be merit-based and interest-driven, with a state-level selection committee making the final decisions.
While tuition fees are fully covered, students will need to manage costs related to hostel accommodation, meals, uniforms, and other incidental expenses.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed his support for the initiative, describing it as a significant step toward equipping Meghalaya's youth for careers in one of the fastest-growing industries.
"Our government is devoted to creating opportunities for our youth to compete globally and contribute to the state's economy through tourism and hospitality," stated Chief Minister Sangma.