The Government of Maharashtra has appointed Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Vikas Pansare as the new Director of the Directorate of Tourism, Maharashtra, as part of a recent administrative reshuffle. Pansare assumed charge at the Directorate of Tourism, Mumbai, on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
The appointment comes at a significant time for Maharashtra’s tourism sector, as the state continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for domestic and international travellers.
Prior to his appointment as Director of Tourism, Vikas Pansare served as Managing Director of the Maharashtra Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (MSSIDC), where he handled key administrative and organisational responsibilities.
Over the course of his career, Pansare has served across various departments of the Maharashtra Government, gaining extensive experience in administration and public-sector management. His diverse experience is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the state’s tourism development initiatives.
As Director of the Directorate of Tourism, Pansare will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of tourism policies, promoting Maharashtra’s diverse destinations and strengthening publicity and outreach initiatives.
His responsibilities will also include supporting efforts to position Maharashtra as an outstanding tourism destination on the global map, while encouraging sustainable and responsible tourism development across the state.
With Maharashtra offering a diverse mix of heritage, culture, beaches, wildlife, spiritual destinations, adventure experiences and urban attractions, the Directorate of Tourism plays a key role in developing and promoting the state’s tourism ecosystem.
Pansare succeeds Mangesh Joshi (IAS), who previously served as Director of the Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra.
During his tenure, Joshi contributed significantly to strengthening Maharashtra’s tourism ecosystem, with a focus on tourism infrastructure, destination promotion and increasing private-sector participation. His efforts helped enhance the visibility of Maharashtra’s tourism offerings and contributed to the state gaining wider recognition nationally and internationally.
The Directorate of Tourism placed on record its appreciation for Joshi’s contribution and leadership during his tenure.
With Vikas Pansare taking charge, the Directorate of Tourism enters a new phase focused on further strengthening Maharashtra’s tourism potential. His administrative experience, combined with the state’s expanding tourism opportunities, is expected to support the development of new initiatives and accelerate sustainable tourism growth.
The Directorate of Tourism has extended a warm welcome to Pansare and expressed confidence that under his leadership, Maharashtra’s tourism sector will continue to grow and scale new heights.
