Madhya Pradesh Offers the Most Investor-Friendly Environment: Additional Chief Secretary Shukla

On the second day of the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart (MPTM), the first panel discussion focused on tourism prospects with the theme ‘Madhya Pradesh: From Hidden Gem to Global Icon’. Experts agreed that the state has made significant progress toward becoming an exceptional tourism destination. The session explored heritage, wildlife, eco-tourism and festivals in Madhya Pradesh.

Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism and Culture) and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Shiv Shekhar Shukla, stated that the state aims to build a robust and dynamic ecosystem that integrates tourism with business, realizing the vision of ‘From Hidden Gem to Global Icon.’ The state has emerged as an outstanding travel destination offering unique experiences in heritage, wildlife, culture, and hospitality. Madhya Pradesh is strengthening the hospitality sector and enhancing coordination between government departments and the private sector through a new policy framework. The focus is on simplifying processes and creating an investment-friendly environment to benefit both investors and the state equally.

Shri Shukla shared that over the two days, around 4,000 B2B meetings have been scheduled at MPTM, reflecting the growing confidence of national and international stakeholders in Madhya Pradesh’s tourism potential. This extensive participation is a testament to the state’s rising reputation. Inspired by this success, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has pledged to make MPTM an annual platform to encourage continuous dialogue, partnerships, and innovation in the tourism sector.

Air India Ltd. Head of Sales, Shri Manish Puri, said that the airline is actively improving last-mile connectivity and linking tier-3 cities to provide seamless travel experiences across India. With its vast possibilities, better connectivity in Madhya Pradesh will be key in unlocking the state’s full tourism potential and attracting tourists from India and abroad.

IHCL Executive Vice President – Commercial, Shri Parveen Chander Kumar, described IHCL’s journey with Madhya Pradesh in three words: vision, partnership and execution. He highlighted that India’s first luxury safari experience was launched in Madhya Pradesh, showcasing the state’s tourism appeal. Currently, IHCL operates nine hotels in the state, with eight more under construction. Madhya Pradesh’s central location provides excellent connectivity and access to a rich tapestry of wildlife, heritage, spirituality, culture and diverse experiences.

Dr. Sushrut Sudhir Babulkar, Managing Director of SerenDIPity Lakes & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., noted that Madhya Pradesh follows a model where community development is at the core of its tourism efforts. This shared vision naturally fosters meaningful collaborations between SerenDIPity and the state. The goal is to strengthen local capabilities, enhance livelihoods, and contribute to inclusive state development through collective efforts.

IATO President Shri Ravi Gosain said Madhya Pradesh has made remarkable strides in tourism, earning strong national and international recognition. The Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart is a commendable initiative, and inviting foreign tour operators will further boost global partnerships and reinforce the state’s image as a world-class tourism destination.

MP Ecotourism CEO Shri L. Krishnamurthy highlighted India’s ‘Wildlife State’ focuses on conservation, safety and community participation. Revenue generated from tiger reserves and safari operations is reinvested into wildlife conservation and local community development. Madhya Pradesh has also introduced trekking, kayaking, and camping alongside safari experiences to provide a variety of activities for tourists.

The Postcard Hotel’s Co-Founder and Senior Vice President, Shri Aniruddha Kandpal, praised the uniqueness of Madhya Pradesh’s wildlife and announced plans to establish ultra-luxury wildlife lodges starting in Kanha and Pench.

Shri Rakesh Kumar Rana, Head of Hotels at Yatra.com, said digital platforms are the best way to showcase Madhya Pradesh’s tourism attractions—wildlife, culture, heritage, and spiritual experiences, making it easier for travelers to explore the state’s diverse offerings from a single source.

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) Chairman, Shri Rajan Sehgal, revealed that in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, they are developing a golf course near Sanchi to attract golf enthusiasts. This will allow visitors not only to enjoy the sport but also to experience the natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh up close. The session was moderated by TourismFuture.ai’s Futuristic Officer, Shri Naveen Kundu.