Tourism in MP to Scale New Heights from Vindhyan Valleys

On the concluding day of the two-day Regional Tourism Conclave in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, three insightful dialogue sessions were held, focusing on critical areas such as tourism, investment, culture, and connectivity. The sessions were titled “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 administrative officials from across the country deliberated.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla stated that 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..

Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts and Endowments Dharmendra Singh Lodhi noted the recently launched PM Shri Vayu Seva scheme has linked remote regions of the state, and heli-services are also on the anvil. He added that the state’s tourism policy has simplified investment approvals, and the government remains committed to providing seamless services to investors through a single-window system.

Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Sheo Shekhar Shukla emphasized that tourism transcends boundaries. The Vindhya region, adjoining Uttar Pradesh, enjoys robust road, rail, and air connectivity. He informed that a proposed tourism corridor from Maa Ganga to Maa Narmada aims to link major pilgrimage and tourism hubs in both states, including Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Omkareshwar, and Mahakaleshwar. This initiative will enhance inter-state tourism cooperation and offer visitors an enriched, multifaceted experience, boosting religious, cultural, wellness, and heritage tourism. Madhya Pradesh, with its cultural legacy, natural wealth, historic monuments, and wildlife diversity, offers a comprehensive tourism experience and has already marked a strong presence on the global tourism map.

Dr. Ilaiyaraja T, Managing Director of MPSTDC, shared that the Corporation is focused on strengthening core infrastructure while ensuring ease of access, quality accommodation, and unforgettable visitor experiences. 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.

Additional MD of MP Tourism Board, Ms Bidisha Mukherjee, said that tourism must be viewed beyond economic metrics—it must align with social inclusion, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. “Our vision is to develop an inclusive, responsible, and sustainable tourism model,” she said. The Board is working on rural homestays, women guide training, promotion of local crafts and arts, and eco-friendly infrastructure, she added.

Conclave in Rewa marked a major step in redefining Vindhya’s cultural, spiritual, and ecological identity. Experts emphasized responsible, inclusive, and sustainable tourism, with Madhya Pradesh emerging as a hospitality and investment hub. Discussions highlighted the state's biodiversity, religious circuits, and connectivity as key tourism drivers. Influencers and industry leaders stressed immersive travel experiences, youth entrepreneurship, and digital promotion. A parallel exhibition showcased handicrafts and tourism services, creating a vibrant platform for collaboration and local empowerment.