Successful Wrap-up of Two-Day Regional Tourism Roadshow Organised by MP Tourism Board in Rewa

On the final day of the two-day Regional Tourism Conference in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, three engaging dialogue sessions took place, centred around vital themes such as tourism, investment, culture, and connectivity. These sessions, 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”, saw the participation of tourism experts, investors, and senior government officials from across the country, all deliberating on the immense potential of Madhya Pradesh’s Vindhya region.

During the inaugural session, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, comprehensive efforts are underway to develop infrastructure, preserve traditional culture, and foster private sector involvement in tourism. He emphasised that Madhya Pradesh is becoming a dynamic destination for tourism and investment, with tourism viewed as a crucial driver of economic growth, employment creation, and cultural pride. Vindhya’s rich cultural heritage, natural splendours, and profound history offer vast opportunities for national and international recognition. Initiatives such as the Regional Tourism Conference are vital steps in promoting investment, dialogue, and partnerships.

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts and Endowments, Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, highlighted that tourism remains one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide. Under CM Dr Mohan Yadav’s leadership, sustained efforts are being made to bolster tourism infrastructure and improve visitor facilities. The recently launched PM Vayu Seva scheme has connected remote regions of the state, with heli-services also on the horizon. He added that Madhya Pradesh’s tourism policy simplifies investment procedures and provides seamless services through a single-window clearance system.

Vindhya as a Key Connectivity Corridor: Sheo Shekhar Shukla

Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla, also Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, highlighted that tourism transcends borders. The Vindhya region, neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, benefits from strong road, rail, and air connectivity. He announced the proposed tourism corridor linking Maa Ganga to Maa Narmada, aiming to connect key pilgrimage and tourism centres including Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Omkareshwar, and Mahakaleshwar. This initiative seeks to foster interdisciplinary cooperation across states and provide visitors with an enriching experience in religious, cultural, wellness, and heritage tourism. Madhya Pradesh, with its rich cultural legacy, natural diversity, historic monuments, and wildlife, already commands a notable presence on the global tourism stage. “Tourism is not just an economic driver, but also a means of social inclusion and cultural connectivity,” he stated.

Tourism as a Catalyst for Cultural Integration and Social Inclusion: Dr Ilaiyaraja T

Managing Director of MPSTDC, Dr Ilaiyaraja T, highlighted that the corporation is focused on strengthening core infrastructure, ensuring ease of access, high-quality accommodation, and memorable visitor experiences. An integrated ecosystem is being developed where tourists can book tickets and stays online, alongside upgrades to air and road connectivity and power infrastructure at major tourist sites.

A Vision for Inclusive, Responsible, and Sustainable Tourism: Bidisha Mukherjee

Additional Managing Director of MP Tourism Board, Bidisha Mukherjee, outlined that tourism must go beyond economic metrics towards fostering social inclusion, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. The department is working on rural homestays, training women guides, promoting local crafts and arts, and developing eco-friendly infrastructure. “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 Heritage Gains New Recognition through the Conference

The Regional Tourism Conference served as a significant step in revitalising Vindhya’s cultural and spiritual heritage, emphasising Madhya Pradesh’s rapidly evolving, inclusive, responsible, and sustainable tourism model. By adopting a holistic approach to tourism, investment, culture, and connectivity, the event laid a strong foundation for long-term development. The state’s religious circuits, diverse culture, rich biodiversity, and architectural marvels are attracting tourists and generating employment and self-reliance opportunities for local communities. The conference reiterated that tourism is evolving from mere recreation to a tool for social harmony, economic upliftment, and cultural preservation, with the Vindhya region set to play a defining role.

Industry Experts Share Perspectives on the Future of Tourism

President of the Responsible Tourism Society of India, 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.

Atul Pandey, Director of Operations at Taj Safaris, praised the state’s biodiversity, which has historically drawn visitors, and noted Taj’s luxury safari experiences driven by supportive policies. Hospitality Consultant Rishi Suryapuri identified Madhya Pradesh as an emerging leader in hospitality, citing expanding connectivity and international interest. Former Rewa Minister Pushpraj Singh lauded infrastructure growth, while Sameer Bajaj, Head of Corporate Affairs at MakeMyTrip, highlighted the significant rise in searches for Madhya Pradesh.

Travel influencer 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. 

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 emphasised 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, Mahendra Pratap Singh, emphasised 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 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.

Tourism Exhibition Sparks Creativity

The conference’s tourism exhibition showcased Madhya Pradesh’s vibrant handicrafts, including Dhokra from Betul, Bundeli paintings, Date Leaf Craft from Anuppur, Bronze Craft from Uchehra, Sikki Art from Sidhi, and Terracotta crafts. The event also featured displays from prominent tourism brands like IRCTC, MP Hotels & Resorts, Mowgli Resorts, and Tendu Leaf Resorts, fostering creative exchange and collaboration among artisans, tourism entrepreneurs, and visitors.