The Maharashtra government will take steps to expedite the proposed MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) project at Hatani and Valti in Buldhana district’s Chikhli taluka, along with the proposed development of ‘Jijau Srushti’ at Sindkhed Raja, the birthplace of Rajmata Jijau.
Maharashtra Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai said the two projects are expected to give a new direction to tourism in the Vidarbha region.
A review meeting on the proposed MICE project and the development of Shivsrushti and Jijau Srushti at Sindkhed Raja was held at Mantralaya under the chairmanship of Desai.
The meeting was attended by Makrand Aaba Patil, Minister of Relief and Rehabilitation and Guardian Minister (Buldhana District); Shweta Mahale, MLA; Manoj Kayande, MLA; Neelesh R. Gatne (IAS), Managing Director, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation; Vijay Powar, Deputy Secretary, Department of Tourism; Ravindra Pawar, Assistant Director, Directorate of Tourism, along with the Collector of Buldhana, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Assistant Director of the Archaeology Department and other officials who joined through video conferencing.
MICE Project to Be Fast-Tracked
During the meeting, the Collector of Buldhana was directed to hand over the land required for the proposed MICE project at Hatani and Valti to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation.
Officials were also instructed to prepare the project’s master plan, architectural design, detailed project report (DPR) and cost estimates on priority. Discussions also focused on financial provisions, funding plans and the roadmap for implementation of the project.
The proposed MICE project is expected to strengthen the region’s potential for business events and contribute to the development of tourism infrastructure in Vidarbha.
Focus on Jijau Srushti
The meeting also discussed the proposed ‘Jijau Srushti’, planned as a tribute site for the all-round development of Rajmata Jijau’s birthplace at Sindkhed Raja.
Several conservation and preservation works have already been completed as part of the development plan for the historic birthplace. The proposed Jijau Srushti is now under consideration, with the aim of making the site more attractive, informative and tourism-ready.
The proposal will be submitted to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for approval. Following a final decision, the Tourism Department will undertake planning, detailed design, fund allocation and phase-wise execution of the project in coordination with Makrand Aaba Patil, Guardian Minister for Buldhana District.
The project is also expected to use modern methods to bring Rajmata Jijau’s history, legacy and cultural heritage to a wider audience of tourists.
Together, the MICE project at Hatani and Valti and Jijau Srushti at Sindkhed Raja are aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure while highlighting the region’s historical and cultural significance.
