Is the Government Making MP a Top Tourist Destination?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Madhya Pradesh aims to be a leading international tourist destination.
- Focus on sustainable tourism practices.
- Collaboration with Airbnb for rural homestay training.
- Involvement in global tourism events like ITB Asia.
- Highlighting key segments such as wildlife and cultural heritage.
Bhopal, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB), Sheo Shekhar Shukla, announced on Friday that the government is actively striving to position the state's vibrant heritage, wildlife, spirituality, and forests among the top international tourist destinations.
Speaking during the final session of the two-day travel trade show, ITB Asia 2025, which took place at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, Shukla highlighted that ITB Asia provided an essential global stage to present the diverse tourism opportunities that Madhya Pradesh has to offer.
“Our ambition is to transform Madhya Pradesh into a premier international destination where heritage, wildlife, spirituality, and sustainable tourism come together to create truly memorable experiences for travelers,” stated Shukla.
As the leader of the MPTB delegation at the Singapore event, Shukla engaged in several productive discussions with delegates aimed at advancing Madhya Pradesh Tourism on a global scale.
The Madhya Pradesh team also participated in B2B meetings with international tour operators, buyers, and key players in the global travel sector. These discussions focused on promoting inbound tourism and identifying new partnership opportunities.
Training for rural homestay operators was a significant focus, along with a broader initiative to promote Madhya Pradesh’s innovations. Shukla expressed interest in collaborating with Airbnb to conduct specialized training workshops in the state, enhancing the capabilities of rural homestay owners.
“Conversations centered around Madhya Pradesh’s key tourism segments—including wildlife sanctuaries, cultural heritage, adventure tourism, and film and wedding tourism—to further solidify the state’s identity as the ‘Heart of Incredible India’,” he added in a statement.
ITB Asia gathers prominent professionals from the MICE, corporate, and travel technology sectors, along with international exhibitors and buyers. The event acts as a global platform for business dialogues, networking, and forging strategic partnerships.
“Our participation is a crucial step towards reinforcing partnerships and establishing Madhya Pradesh on the international tourism map as a hub for culture, nature, and adventure,” said Shukla, who also serves as the Additional Chief Secretary for Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments in Madhya Pradesh.