Tourism in Madhya Pradesh to Scale New Heights from the Vindhyan Valleys: Deputy CM Rajendra Shukla
Successful Conclusion of Two-Day Regional Tourism Roadshow Organised by MP Tourism Board in Rewa
Stakeholders from Tourism Sector, Tour Operators and Hospitality Industry Participate in Large Numbers
Tourism Minister Dharmendra Lodhi and Principal Secretary Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla Highlight State’s Unique Offerings
On the concluding day of the two-day Regional Tourism Conclave in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, three insightful dialogue sessions were held, focusing on critical areas such as tourism, investment, culture, and connectivity. The sessions were titled “From Forest Trails to Heritage Tales: The Tourism Renaissance of Rewa”, “Building Holistic Tourism Experiences in Madhya Pradesh”, and “Investment Opportunities in Tourism, Film and Hospitality in Madhya Pradesh”. Tourism experts, investors, and senior administrative officials from across the country deliberated on the immense tourism potential of Madhya Pradesh, particularly in the Vindhya region.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, systematic and integrated efforts are being made to promote infrastructure development, preserve traditional culture, and encourage private participation in tourism. As a result, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a dynamic and promising destination for tourism and investment. The government envisions tourism as a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and cultural pride. He remarked that when a region experiences an industrial revolution, a green revolution, and a tourism revolution simultaneously, its development accelerates. Vindhya’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural depth offer immense scope for national and international recognition. Platforms like the Regional Tourism Conclave are vital steps towards promoting investment, dialogue, and partnerships.
Tourism Industry Among the Fastest-Growing in the World: Minister Dharmendra Lodhi
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts and Endowments Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi noted that tourism is currently one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global economy. Under the leadership of CM Dr. Mohan Yadav, sustained efforts are being made to strengthen tourism infrastructure and enhance visitor amenities. The recently launched PM Shri Vayu Seva scheme has linked remote regions of the state, and heli-services are also on the anvil. He added that the state’s tourism policy has simplified investment approvals, and the government remains committed to providing seamless services to investors through a single-window system.
Tourism Has No Borders; Vindhya Poised to Lead Corridor Connectivity: Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla
Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla emphasized that tourism transcends boundaries. The Vindhya region, adjoining Uttar Pradesh, enjoys robust road, rail, and air connectivity. He informed that a proposed tourism corridor from Maa Ganga to Maa Narmada aims to link major pilgrimage and tourism hubs in both states, including Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Omkareshwar, and Mahakaleshwar. This initiative will enhance inter-state tourism cooperation and offer visitors an enriched, multifaceted experience, boosting religious, cultural, wellness, and heritage tourism. Madhya Pradesh, with its cultural legacy, natural wealth, historic monuments, and wildlife diversity, offers a comprehensive tourism experience and has already marked a strong presence on the global tourism map. “Tourism is not just an economic driver, but also a means of social inclusion and cultural connectivity,” he stated.
Tourism is a Catalyst for Cultural Integration and Social Inclusion: Dr. Ilaiyaraja T
Dr. Ilaiyaraja T, Managing Director of MPSTDC, shared that the Corporation is focused on strengthening core infrastructure while ensuring ease of access, quality accommodation, and unforgettable visitor experiences. An integrated ecosystem is being developed where tourists can book tickets and stays online. Comprehensive upgrades in air and road connectivity along with power infrastructure are being implemented at tourist destinations.
A Vision for Inclusive, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism: Bidisha Mukherjee
Additional Managing Director of MP Tourism Board, Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, said that tourism must be viewed beyond economic metrics—it must align with social inclusion, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. “Our vision is to develop an inclusive, responsible, and sustainable tourism model,” she said. The Board is working on rural homestays, women guide training, promotion of local crafts and arts, and eco-friendly infrastructure. “We envision a tourism ecosystem where not just tourists, but local communities too gain identity, income, and empowerment,” she added.
Vindhya’s Cultural and Spiritual Riches Receive New Identity through the Conclave
The Regional Tourism Conclave proved to be a decisive step in giving Vindhya’s cultural depth, spiritual legacy, and natural wealth a renewed identity. The discussions over two days reaffirmed Madhya Pradesh’s rapid strides toward a tourism model that is inclusive, responsible, and sustainable. With a holistic lens on tourism, investment, culture, and connectivity, the event laid a strong foundation for long-term tourism development. The state’s religious circuits, cultural diversity, rich biodiversity, and architectural marvels are not just drawing tourists, but also opening avenues for employment and self-reliance within local communities. The conclave underscored the evolving role of tourism—not merely as recreation, but as a conduit for social connection, economic upliftment, and cultural preservation, with the Vindhya region poised to play a defining role.
Industry Experts Share Perspectives on the Future of Tourism
President of the Responsible Tourism Society of India, Shri Rakesh Mathur, stressed the need to build bridges between tourists and nature that preserve ecological balance. “We must adapt our behaviour to preserve our heritage and environment,” he said.
Director of Operations, Taj Safaris, Shri Atul Pandey, highlighted the state’s biodiversity, which has consistently attracted visitors. He noted that Taj Group initiated luxury safari experiences in Madhya Pradesh due to its tourism-friendly policies and the responsiveness of the government and administration to investor needs.
Hospitality Consultant Shri Rishi Suryapuri spoke about the vast investment potential in Madhya Pradesh. He observed that the state is emerging as a leader in hospitality, with the government’s continued expansion of connectivity drawing international attention.
Former Minister of Rewa, HH Shri Pushpraj Singh, remarked that the Prime Minister’s vision has led to remarkable infrastructure expansion across the nation, and the state’s robust road network is propelling tourism growth.
MakeMyTrip’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Shri Sameer Bajaj, shared that a third of searches on their platform relate to Madhya Pradesh, especially from Delhi-NCR and Maharashtra, and the state’s tourism is on a rapid rise.
Travel influencer Shri Siddhartha Joshi stated that content creators must design immersive and experiential narratives. “Today’s traveller wants not just visuals but a complete itinerary experience,” he noted.
Founder of Tathastu Resorts, Shri Anil Agrawal, affirmed that the MP Tourism Department remains the most proactive body in resolving stakeholder concerns in the tourism sector.
Rohit Chopra, Area Commercial Director of Minor Hotels, remarked that Madhya Pradesh continues to be a safe and attractive destination. “If this safety is maintained, the tourism sector will undoubtedly flourish,” he added.
Gajendra Singh Rathore of Jungle Camps India shared that Madhya Pradesh offers wildlife tourism opportunities unmatched in the country, supported by pristine heritage properties. He noted that local youth engaged in tourism here are excelling even beyond their metropolitan counterparts.
Dighesh Amit Digvijay Singh of Swiss Trafalgar emphasized that Madhya Pradesh offers young people both a profession and a passion in tourism. “They must not only study tourism but also develop themselves as tourism entrepreneurs,” he stated.
Chairperson of FICCI MP Tourism Committee, Shri Mahendra Pratap Singh, emphasized the role of the Tourism Board in elevating Madhya Pradesh’s global profile. “Through digital collaboration with international platforms, we can position the state as India’s No. 1 tourism destination,” he said.
Veteran actor Shri Mukesh Tiwari said, “We in Madhya Pradesh welcome people not with red carpets but with open hearts.” He spoke about the intrinsic role of travel in shaping great lives and the deeper meaning of tourism as a journey of self-discovery.
The sessions were moderated by Shri Prateek Hira, Chairperson of FICCI UP Tourism Committee; Ms. Neelam Rathore, Social Media Lead at MP Tourism Board; and Director IP, Shri Rajesh Gupta.
Tourism Exhibition Becomes a Major Attraction at the Conclave
The exhibition held during the Regional Tourism Conclave in Rewa featured an impressive showcase of Madhya Pradesh’s rich handicrafts, tourism services, and cultural heritage. Artworks and crafts on display included Dhokra from Betul, Bundeli Painting from Niwari, Date Leaf Craft from Anuppur, Bronze Craft from Uchehra, Sikki Art from Sidhi, and Terracotta Craft. Mrignayanee Emporium presented the state’s exquisite textile crafts. Leading tourism enterprises such as IRCTC, MP Hotels & Resorts, Mowgli Resorts, and Tendu Leaf Resorts also exhibited their offerings. The exhibition emerged as a dynamic platform for creative exchange and collaboration among artisans, tourism entrepreneurs, and visitors alike.
