Deputy CM 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 in Madhya Pradesh to boost tourism through infrastructure development, preservation and promotion of traditional culture, and increased private sector participation. As a result, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a high-potential and attractive destination for tourism investment. The state government is positioning tourism as a foundation for the economy, employment, and cultural pride.
He added that when a region witnesses an industrial revolution, a green revolution, and a tourism revolution, its development accelerates, generating ample employment opportunities. Vindhya’s rich heritage, nature, and culture hold immense potential to be showcased on national and international platforms. Events like the Regional Tourism Conclave are important steps toward investment, dialogue, and collaboration in this direction. Shri Shukla was addressing the inaugural session of the second day of the two-day Regional Tourism Conclave in Rewa on Sunday.
On the concluding day of the conclave, three panel discussions were held focusing on tourism, investment, culture and connectivity. From Forest Trails to Heritage Stories: Rewa’s Tourism Renaissance, Building a Holistic Tourism Experience in Madhya Pradesh and Investment Promotion in Tourism, Film, and Hospitality Sector in Madhya Pradesh. Tourism experts, investors, and administrative officials from across the country shared their views on the immense tourism potential in Madhya Pradesh, especially in the Vindhya region.
Minister of State for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts (Independent Charge) Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi emphasised that tourism is currently one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global economy. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, continuous efforts are being made to develop tourism infrastructure and amenities.He mentioned that through the PM Shri Air Service Scheme, remote areas in Madhya Pradesh have been connected, and helicopter services will be launched soon. The state’s tourism policy has simplified approval processes for investors, and the government is committed to providing investor-friendly services through a single-window system.
Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Shiv Shekhar Shukla, said tourism is aborderless sector. Vindhya shares borders with Uttar Pradesh and enjoys excellent road, rail, and air connectivity. The proposed “Ganga to Narmada Tourism Corridor” aims to link major religious and tourism destinations of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, including Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Omkareshwar, and Mahakaleshwar. This will enhance inter-state tourism cooperation and offer visitors a rich and diverse experience in religious, cultural, wellness, and heritage tourism.
Managing Director of MP State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) Dr. Ilayaraja T. shared that MPSTDC is actively strengthening basic infrastructure and working on multiple fronts to ensure easy access, quality accommodation, and memorable experiences for tourists. He said a complete ecosystem is being developed, enabling tourists to book tickets and stays from home. Reliable electricity and connectivity infrastructure have also been ensured at tourism sites.
Additional Managing Director of MP Tourism Board, Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, added that the board views tourism not just as an economic activity but also as a medium for social inclusion, cultural preservation, and environmental balance.
Expert Opinions from National Stakeholders
During various sessions, tourism experts expressed their insights. Shri Rakesh Mathur, President of the Responsible Tourism Society of India, emphasised the need for building a bridge between tourism and tourists that safeguards nature and heritage.Shri Atul Pandey, Director of Operations at Taj Safaris, praised Madhya Pradesh’s biodiversity and said it has been a major reason for launching luxury nature tourism projects in the state.Shri Rishi Suryapuri, hospitality consultant, noted the immense investment potential in the state and said that increasing connectivity in the Vindhya region is drawing international investors.Shri Pushpraj Singh, former minister from Rewa, stated that infrastructure development across the country is advancing under Prime Minister Modi’s vision, and the road network in Madhya Pradesh is greatly boosting tourism.Shri Sameer Bajaj, Head of Corporate Affairs at MakeMyTrip, said that Madhya Pradesh has a vast tourism landscape and receives nearly one-third of MakeMyTrip searches. Most tourists come from Delhi-NCR and Maharashtra.Shri Siddharth Joshi, influencer, stated that tourism must be experiential, not just visual.Tourism entrepreneurs such as Shri Anil Agarwal (Founder, Tathastu Resorts), Shri Rohit Chopra (Area Commercial Director, Minor Hotels), Shri Gajendra Singh Rathore (Jungle Camps India), Shri D. A. D. Singh (Swiss Trafalgar), and Shri Mahendra Pratap Singh (Chairman, FICCI MP Tourism Committee) also praised the state’s investor-friendly policies.
Actor Mukesh Tiwari’s Heartfelt Remarks
Renowned actor Shri Mukesh Tiwari remarked, “We in Madhya Pradesh don’t welcome people with red carpets, but with open hearts.” He added that nature created us to protect nature, and that travel has always held great significance in the lives of great personalities. He emphasized the need to discover the true meaning of tourism.
Tourism Exhibition Attracted Visitors
A grand exhibition organised during the Regional Tourism Conclave showcased the rich handicrafts, arts, tourism services, and traditional heritage of Madhya Pradesh. Exhibits includedDhokra Craft (Betul), Bundeli Painting (Niwari), Date Leaf Craft (Anuppur), Bronze Craft (Uchehra), Sikki Art (Sidhi)and Terracotta Craft. Mrignayani Emporium, Rewa, displayed exquisite textile art, while premier tourism entities such as IRCTC, MP Hotels & Resorts, Mowgli Resorts, and Tenduleaf Resorts presented their offerings and opportunities through their stalls. The exhibition served as an effective platform for creative dialogue and collaboration among local artisans, tourism entrepreneurs, and visitors.