Experts Deliberate on “Madhya Pradesh: From Hidden Gem to Global Icon” at First Session of Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart

Bhopal:
On the second day of the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart (MPTM), the first panel discussion focused on the state’s tourism potential under the theme “Madhya Pradesh: From Hidden Gem to Global Icon.” Experts shared insights on the state’s heritage, wildlife, eco-tourism, and festivals.

Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said that Madhya Pradesh aims to develop a robust and dynamic ecosystem that integrates tourism and business, bringing the theme “From Hidden Gem to Global Icon” to life. The state has now emerged as a premier tourism destination offering unique experiences in heritage, wildlife, culture, and hospitality. Through the new policy framework, we are strengthening the foundation of the hospitality sector and ensuring better coordination between various departments and the private sector. Focus is being given to simplifying processes and creating an investor-friendly environment, benefiting both investors and the state alike.

Mr Shukla highlighted that nearly 4,000 B2B meetings have been scheduled over the two days of MPTM, reflecting the growing confidence of national and international stakeholders in Madhya Pradesh’s tourism potential. This extensive participation is evidence of the state’s rising reputation. Madhya Pradesh is fast becoming a preferred destination for investment, collaboration, and experiential tourism. Inspired by this success, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has committed to developing MPTM as an annual platform to promote continuous dialogue, partnerships, and innovation in the tourism sector.

*Mr. Manish Puri, Head of Sales, Air India Limited, stated that Air India is actively working to enhance last-mile connectivity and link Tier-3 cities, thereby enabling a seamless travel experience across India. Madhya Pradesh’s diverse tourism potential, coupled with improved connectivity, will play a crucial role in attracting domestic and international tourists.

Mr. Parveen Chander Kumar, Executive Vice President, Commercial, Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), said that our journey with Madhya Pradesh can be defined in three words: Vision, Relationship, and Execution. IHCL established India’s first luxury safari experience here in Madhya Pradesh, a strong example of the state’s tourism potential. Today, we operate nine hotels in the state, with eight more under construction. Being located in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh offers excellent connectivity and a variety of experiences in wildlife, heritage, spirituality, and culture.

Dr. Sushrut Sudhir Babulkar, Managing Director, Serendipity Lakes & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., said that Madhya Pradesh follows a model where community development is at the core of its efforts. This shared vision fosters a natural and promising collaboration between Serendipity and the state. Our aim is to strengthen local capacities, enhance livelihoods, and contribute to inclusive development.

Mr. Ravi Gosain, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), said that Madhya Pradesh has made remarkable progress in tourism over the past decades. The state has built a strong identity through active participation at national and international levels. MPTM is a commendable initiative. Inviting foreign tour operators will further strengthen global partnerships and reinforce the state’s position as a world-class tourism destination.

Mr. L. Krishnamurthy, CEO, MP Ecotourism Development Board & Additional Chief Principal Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), said that Madhya Pradesh is known as India’s “Wildlife State,” with a special focus on conservation, protection, and community involvement. Revenue from tiger reserves and safaris is reinvested in wildlife protection and local community development. The state has also introduced activities such as trekking, kayaking, and camping, offering tourists a diverse range of experiences.

Mr. Anirudh Kandpal, Co-Founder & Senior Vice President, The Postcard Hotel, said that Madhya Pradesh’s wildlife is truly unique. As a luxury hospitality brand, The Postcard Hotel plans to establish ultra-luxury wildlife lodges in the state, starting with Kanha and Pench, with further announcements to follow soon.

Mr. Rakesh Kumar Rana, Head – Hotels, Yatra.com, said that digital platforms are the best option to showcase Madhya Pradesh’s diverse tourism offerings, whether wildlife, culture, heritage, or spiritual experiences. This will enable travellers to easily explore the state’s diverse tourism potential in one place.

Mr. Rajan Sehgal, Chairman, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), said, “With the support of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, we are developing a golf course near Sanchi. Madhya Pradesh also attracts a large number of tourists interested in golf, and this initiative will allow them to enjoy golf while experiencing the natural beauty of the state.”

The session was moderated by Mr Naveen Kundu, Futuristic Officer, Tourismfuture.ai.

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