Priyanka Saxena Ray
What is your vision for Madhya Pradesh Tourism by 2025, and how do you plan to position the state as a leading destination for both domestic and international travellers?
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board will host seasonal Influencer Meets in 2025 to showcase offbeat destinations & create unique travel stories leveraging OTT and digital platforms. Besides Gandhisagar, Chanderi and Kuno, plans are underway to launch new tourist destinations. As a comprehensive destination promotion program, diverse destination promotional events like year-round tent cities with cultural and adventure activities at Mandu, Orchha, Tamia and others will be implemented. As ‘Moh Liya Re’ starring Pankaj Tripathi captured nationwide attention in 2024 with 1,460,926 views as of now, another TVC featuring international Sitar adroit Anoushka Shankar is in the pipeline to enhance international appeal. Additionally, a comprehensive Destination Handbook is being curated to showcase the state’s captivating attractions. To stay ahead of the curve, Madhya Pradesh embraces technology by creating 360-degree VR videos, audiobooks, and digital tours to engage a wider audience.
Could you highlight your key strategies to enhance tourism infrastructure, improve connectivity, and ensure a seamless experience for visitors across the state?
In 2024, Madhya Pradesh emerged as a leading tourist destination, welcoming over 13 crore visitors. This surge, driven by a record 7.25 crore pilgrims to Ujjain’s Mahakal temple, solidified the state’s position as a global spiritual tourism hub. Madhya Pradesh has achieved a significant milestone in heritage preservation. Plans are underway to expand PM Shri Paryatan Vayu Seva. Bhopal is set to receive a state-of-the-art convention centre worth ₹100 crore near Minto Hall. Orchha’s heritage is a priority and the state is committed to preserving Orchha’s historical significance while promoting tourism with investment of ₹100 crore to support sustainable development in the region. Furthermore, the state is actively pursuing UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status for the Bhagoria dance, Gond painting, and Narmada Parikrama.
Please share details regarding any new promotional campaigns or marketing strategies that are being planned to showcase Madhya Pradesh’s diverse offerings to a global audience?
Madhya Pradesh has plans to strategically attract global tourists in 2025. The state tourism board is working on an ‘Outreach Programs’ to build a connection with sources market and leverage global reach. We aim to actively participate in international travel trade shows and conferences to connect with key stakeholders and promote Madhya Pradesh as a destination. Lately, we are planning to participate in FITUR, International tourism trade fair at IFEMA Madrid and ITB at Berlin to showcase its tourism offerings and connect with potential partners. The board is planning to organize roadshow in Barcelona post FITUR to promote Madhya Pradesh to travel agents, tour operators, and media. The roadshows will highlight the state’s unique experiences and encourage partnerships.
Are there particular regions or tourism segments in Madhya Pradesh, such as eco-tourism, heritage tourism, or wellness tourism, that you are focusing on for special promotion or development?
Sarsi Island Resort situated in the backwater region of Bansagar Dam in Shahdol district, the resort is close to prominent tourist destinations like Bandhavgarh National Park and divine Maihar. Visitors can expect a unique and memorable experience at this eco-circuit destination, aimed at promoting regional tourism. The resort has modern facilities & boasts three boat clubs, offering thrilling water sports experiences. 10 eco-huts have been built, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty for accommodations. An attractive restaurant caters to food enthusiasts, while a modern conference room is perfect for corporate and other events amid nature. Apart from this, health and recreation facilities include a gym, library and a play area for children ensuring a wholesome experience for all age groups.
How does Madhya Pradesh Tourism plan to collaborate with private players, local communities, and international organisations to drive sustainable tourism and create lasting economic benefits for the state?
The state is collaborating with private players, local communities to drive sustainable tourism and create lasting economic benefits though initiatives including cruise tourism, rural tourism, wellness tourism, heritage tourism, eco-tourism and many more. Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board aims at enhancing experiential tourism in Madhya Pradesh. We are working in expansion of homestays to 350 by 2025 to provide authentic rural experiences and allowing tourists to immerse themselves in local culture and lifestyle. Thereafter, development work in 40 villages along the Narmada River, including the establishment of 17 homestays, will promote river-based tourism and offer unique experiences. The focus on textile tourism in Maheshwar, Unchehra, and Bherugarh will allow visitors to experience traditional weaving techniques, interact with skilled artisans, and purchase authentic handicrafts. And with an intent to develop Ujjain as a skydiving hub, along with the Skydiving Festival in Ujjain, hot air ballooning and paramotoring will attract adventure enthusiasts and provide thrilling experiences.
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