The two-day Regional Tourism Conclave concluded on a high note in Rewa, with a strong focus on tourism, investment, culture, and connectivity. The event featured three key sessions: “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 officials from across the country participated in these dialogues, emphasizing the potential of Madhya Pradesh—particularly the Vindhya region—as a key tourism destination.
Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla said, “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.”
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts and Endowments, Dharmendra Singh Lodhi said, “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.”
Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, spoke about cross-border tourism. He said, “Tourism transcends boundaries,” and highlighted the proposed tourism corridor from Maa Ganga to Maa Narmada. This corridor aims to connect pilgrimage and tourism hubs in states including Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Omkareshwar, and Mahakaleshwar, enhancing inter-state cooperation and enriching the tourism experience.
Dr. Ilaiyaraja T, Managing Director of MPSTDC, said, “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.”
Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of the MP Tourism Board, noted, “Our vision is to develop an inclusive, responsible, and sustainable tourism model.” She shared ongoing initiatives like rural homestays, women guide training, promotion of local arts, and eco-friendly infrastructure.
Speakers also touched on investment opportunities in the state. Hospitality Consultant Rishi Suryapuri underlined the untapped potential for investment, while Sameer Bajaj, Head of Corporate Affairs at MakeMyTrip, revealed, “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.”
Dighesh Amit Digvijay Singh of Swiss Trafalgar encouraged youth to take up tourism as a profession and a passion. “They must not only study tourism but also develop themselves as tourism entrepreneurs,” he said.
Sessions were moderated by Prateek Hira (Chairperson, FICCI UP Tourism Committee), Neelam Rathore (Social Media Lead, MP Tourism Board), and Rajesh Gupta (Director IP).
An exhibition was also held during the conclave, featuring Madhya Pradesh’s rich crafts and tourism services. Highlights included Dhokra from Betul, Bundeli Painting from Niwari, Date Leaf Craft from Anuppur, and Terracotta Craft, among others. Mrignayanee Emporium showcased the state’s textile heritage, while tourism enterprises like IRCTC, MP Hotels & Resorts, Mowgli Resorts, and Tendu Leaf Resorts presented their offerings.
The conclave highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to building a tourism model that is inclusive, responsible, and sustainable—positioning the Vindhya region as a key pillar in this journey.
