Madhya Pradesh Tourism Realizing ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’: CM Dr. Yadav

Bhopal, Sept 2025 : Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that Madhya Pradesh tourism has now reached international standards. The state’s tourism sector is bringing the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. The number of both domestic and international tourists visiting the state is steadily increasing, making Madhya Pradesh the first choice for travelers. Last year, 134.1 million tourists visited Madhya Pradesh, including over 70 million spiritual tourists in Ujjain alone.

CM Dr. Yadav stated that tourism in Madhya Pradesh adheres to all principles of sustainable development. Beyond natural, cultural, spiritual, rural and wildlife tourism, emerging sectors like sports tourism, medical tourism, water sports tourism, agricultural tourism, and heritage tourism are also gaining popularity. He said that, under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision, tourism in states like Madhya Pradesh is steadily growing, enhancing India’s global reputation. Global tourism growth has benefited states like Madhya Pradesh. PM Modi has positioned tourism not merely as an economic activity but as a medium for social, cultural, spiritual, and environmental rejuvenation. Initiatives like Vocal for Local, Dekho Apna Desh, and concepts like ‘Triple T’ (Textile, Tourism & Technology) link tourism with development, employment generation, women empowerment and cultural renaissance.

Rising Tourist Numbers

Tourist arrivals in Madhya Pradesh have consistently risen over the past five years. In 2019, 89 million tourists visited the state. Travel restrictions and the COVID-19 health crisis reduced numbers in 2020 and 2021, yet Madhya Pradesh remained a preferred destination. With conditions normalizing in 2022, tourism numbers improved, rising to 112.1 million in 2023 and 134.1 million in 2024.

Global Heritage in Madhya Pradesh

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh has become a hub of global heritage. In Madhya Pradesh, 18 of India’s 69 UNESCO World Heritage sites are located, including the Khajuraho temple complex, Sanchi Buddhist monuments, and Bhimbetka caves, reflecting the grandeur of Indian civilization globally. Currently, three sites are on the permanent list, and 15 are on the tentative list, including Gwalior Fort, Mandu, Orchha, Chanderi, Bhedaghat, Lameta Ghats, Satpura Tiger Reserve, Ashoka inscriptions and 64 Yogini temples. Madhya Pradesh’s natural and historical heritage is thus immensely rich.

Tourism in the state has also become a major attraction for investment. Recently, Regional Tourism Conclaves in Rewa and Gwalior drew enthusiastic participation from investors, with proposals exceeding ₹3,000 crore in Rewa and ₹3,500 crore in Gwalior.

Tourism Infrastructure Development

CM Dr. Yadav highlighted improvements in tourism infrastructure, including the launch of PM Shree Tourism Air Service in Indore, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Bhopal, Rewa, Singrauli, Ujjain, and Khajuraho. Private operators will soon provide helicopter services across the state under a public-private partnership. These services connect major cities, religious sites, national parks, and tourist destinations, facilitating affordable and sustainable air travel. This initiative will enhance travel for tourists, residents, businesses, and investors, boosting commerce, tourism, and employment opportunities.

Recognition and Awards

The year 2025 has been a golden chapter for Madhya Pradesh tourism. Key accolades include—Hospitality India Awards, January 2025: Best State for Promoting Fairs and Festivals; Best State for Publicity. In February the state received  ‘SATTE 2025’: Best State Tourism Award, in April VETA awarded Madhya Pradesh with ‘Leading Heritage Tourism Destination’, in September ‘India Travel Awards’ for Best State Tourism Board by DDP Publication, Golden Banyan Award – Heritage Tourism (Best State) by The Week Magazine, in August MP Tourism–Kidzania Experience Centre won Best Experiential Marketing Campaign and Best Travel & Tourism Marketing Campaign by MADX Summit & Awards 2025 in Goa,

These awards demonstrate that Madhya Pradesh tourism is setting new benchmarks not only nationally but also globally.