MP Tourism Summit: Industry Leaders, Investors, and Bollywood Join Hands for Growth

Madhya Pradesh Emerges as a Prime Investment Hub for Tourism

₹4,468 Crore Investment Proposals Secured at Global Investors Summit

Bhopal – Madhya Pradesh is rapidly positioning itself as a premier destination for tourism investment, driven by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and proactive initiatives by the state government. At the recent Global Investors Summit (GIS), the state secured investment proposals worth ₹4,468 crore in the tourism and hospitality sector, reflecting its immense potential for growth and development.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, addressing the Tourism Summit at GIS, emphasized that under the government’s directives, continuous efforts are being made to enhance tourism infrastructure, improve connectivity, and create a world-class experience for travelers. He highlighted the state’s commitment to making Madhya Pradesh an investor-friendly destination, predicting that future GIS events may focus solely on tourism.

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat underscored the crucial role of tourism in India's future development, citing that by 2047, its contribution to the GDP is expected to exceed 10%. He noted that increased income tax relief in the budget has boosted domestic tourism, providing a significant opportunity for investors. “If I were not in politics, I would be doing business in the tourism sector today,” he remarked, encouraging investors to capitalize on Madhya Pradesh’s vast opportunities.

Madhya Pradesh: A Haven for Wildlife and Cultural Tourism

Madhya Pradesh is renowned for its unique coexistence of wildlife and human habitation, setting it apart from other destinations. The state boasts a rich biodiversity, including cheetahs, tigers, leopards, gharials, and vultures, and continues to expand its network of tiger reserves. Notably, cheetahs are frequently seen near Sheopur villages, and tigers have been spotted in Bhopal’s urban areas, highlighting the state’s harmonious approach to wildlife conservation and tourism.

Actor Pankaj Tripathi, Madhya Pradesh’s tourism brand ambassador, praised the state’s beauty and cultural richness. Reflecting on his past filming experiences, he stated, “There’s no need to go abroad for scenic beauty; everything is right here in Madhya Pradesh. I will visit MP next month with my family because it’s truly unique and amazing.”

Key Investment Highlights in the Tourism Sector

The GIS event witnessed the signing of significant investment proposals to enhance tourism infrastructure, film production, and adventure tourism. Some notable projects include:

• ₹1,960 crore investment by Indian Hotels Company Ltd. (IHCL) for five new hospitality units in national parks, Indore, Ujjain, Gwalior, and Pench.

• ₹600 crore by Treasure Group for luxury resorts, a golf course, and tourism projects near Khajuraho and Sanchi.

• ₹300 crore from Amazon Prime, Hollywood projects, and Zee5 for film production in the state.

• ₹450 crore by the Oberoi Group for a new hospitality unit at Rajgarh Palace, Khajuraho.

• ₹200 crore by Hilton Group for new hotel units in Jabalpur and Bhopal.

• ₹200 crore by Imagica World Entertainment Ltd. for a water park near Indore.

• ₹70 crore by Ayodhya Cruise Lines for cruise tourism projects in the state.

These investments aim to elevate Madhya Pradesh as a key tourism and hospitality hub, with a focus on heritage, adventure, wellness, and sustainable tourism.

Strategic MoUs to Boost Tourism Development

To strengthen tourism and ensure inclusive development, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board signed six key MoUs, including:

• MakeMyTrip: Development of modern ‘Pink Toilets’ in Orchha to improve facilities for women travelers and create employment for women self-help groups.

• IndiaHikes: Expansion of trekking routes and skill development for local adventure entrepreneurs.

• Alchemy Cruise Lines: Launch of a cruise service along the Narmada River from Kukshi (MP) to the Statue of Unity (Gujarat).

• IndiGo Airlines: Development of tourism experiences at Gwalior Fort without altering its historic structures.

• UN Women: Awareness programs to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in tourism.

• Knowledge Marine & Engineering: Development of the Narmada Cruise Line Project to enhance river tourism.

Industry Leaders and Experts Weigh In on MP’s Tourism Potential

A panel discussion at GIS explored the role of tourism and culture in shaping a future-ready Madhya Pradesh. Industry leaders, including Principal Secretary Tourism Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Historian Padma Shri K.K. Mohammed, and executives from major hospitality and travel companies, shared insights on investment prospects and tourism trends.

Shri K.K. Mohammed suggested the creation of a ‘Baghi Museum’ in Chambal, similar to England’s Robin Hood Museum, to showcase dacoit history and attract global tourists. Shri Rohit Khosla of IHCL highlighted the state’s specialty in tiger tourism and announced expansion plans, while Shri Ajeet Bajaj, President of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India, emphasized MP’s potential as the adventure tourism capital of India.

Madhya Pradesh: A Model for Sustainable Tourism Growth

Madhya Pradesh’s approach to tourism balances growth with cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, and ease of investment. With streamlined policies, a transparent single-window clearance system, and incentives for investors, the state is poised to become a national leader in tourism.

Dr. Ilayaraja T, Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, summed it up: “Madhya Pradesh is an offbeat, multi-specialty destination of first choice. The state ensures easy clearances and minimal governance, allowing investors to focus on creating world-class tourism experiences.”

As Madhya Pradesh continues to attract global interest, its commitment to inclusive, high-value tourism is set to redefine India’s travel landscape, making it a preferred destination for investors and travelers alike.

Important Quotes:

1. CM Dr. Mohan Yadav: “Madhya Pradesh is not just a destination; it’s an experience of culture, heritage, and endless possibilities for investors.”
2. Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat: “If I weren’t in politics, I’d be in the tourism business—because Madhya Pradesh is the land of opportunity.”
3. Actor Pankaj Tripathi: “Why travel abroad when you can experience breathtaking landscapes and heritage right here in Madhya Pradesh?”
4. Tourism Minister Dharmendra Lodhi: “We are committed to making Madhya Pradesh the first choice for tourism investment with world-class infrastructure and policies.”
5. Padma Shri K.K. Mohammed: “Madhya Pradesh is a living museum of history, culture, and wildlife, waiting to be explored.”