News Desk, News Nation 360:  India’s tourism industry contributed $178 billion, or about 5.8 per cent, to the country’s gross domestic product in 2021. This will more than double to $512 billion by 2028, according to Government data. The tourism sector provides about 137 million jobs. The industry has been noticing historic high demands of rates and occupancies with domestic travel witnessing a surge. Other than scenic beauty, Meghalaya, in the new year, has a bouquet of festivals lined up, that is sure to please all kinds of travellers. The Government of Meghalaya, under the leadership of CM Shri Conrad Sangma, envisions making Meghalaya, one of the top 10 states of the country and tourism plays a pivotal role in achieving this goal. The policies and programs implemented by the Government work towards trying to make Meghalaya the most sought-after tourist destination. Meghalaya, also known as the Abode of Clouds, is known for its abundant biodiversity areas, famed monsoons, and dramatic terrain but Meghalaya also has a rich cultural and natural heritage, and many festivals are celebrated all around the year to commemorate the same. The four major cultural and religious festivals of the State are the Wangala Dance (Garo hills - November), Shad Suk Mynsiem and Nongkrem Dance Festival (Khasi hills - April and November), and the Behdeinkhlam Festival (Jaintia hills - July). In addition to these, the Government of Meghalaya also organizes a calendar of curated festivals ranging from Kayaking to music and literature. The significant among these are the Kayaking