Make Full Use of the Tourist Heli Service: CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that comprehensive facilities for tourists are being rapidly developed around the world heritage site Khajuraho and the Panna Tiger Reserve. Khajuraho already has an airport, and now Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has further strengthened regional connectivity by gifting a new Vande Bharat train service between Varanasi and Khajuraho. With this, Bundelkhand’s pride, Shri Matangeshwar Mahadev, has been directly linked with Kashi Vishwanath.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav informed that the State Government has significantly enhanced convenience for tourists with the launch of the new PM Shri Heli Tourist Service. Residents of Madhya Pradesh are also benefiting from inter-state air connectivity and air ambulance services. He appealed to tourists to make full use of these facilities.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the number of tourists visiting Madhya Pradesh has increased by more than 526 percent. Over 13.41 crore tourists visited the state last year, and with ongoing tourism-promotion initiatives, this number is expected to rise further in the coming years. The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing a programme in Khajuraho on Wednesday, where he formally inaugurated Hotel The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace by lighting a ceremonial lamp and cutting the ribbon. On this occasion, Oberoi Group owner Shri Arjun Oberoi welcomed and felicitated the Chief Minister with a bouquet and shawl.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav remarked that Khajuraho enjoys special divine blessings. With the establishment of the Rajgarh Palace Hotel by the Oberoi Group, Khajuraho is entering a new era of prosperity. He stated that the State Government is consistently working for the comprehensive development of Bundelkhand. Visitors from across the world come to witness Khajuraho’s ancient architectural grandeur. Khajuraho was once the capital of Maharaja Chhatrasal, and the valiant tales of Alha and Udal continue to inspire pride in Bundelkhand. Dr. Yadav said that this magnificent hotel has been developed on 70 acres, offering world-class luxury while also generating employment opportunities for local residents.

Member of Parliament (Khajuraho) Shri V. D. Sharma stated that the day marked a historic moment for Madhya Pradesh. As a world heritage site, Khajuraho attracts international tourists throughout the year. Prime Minister Shri Modi has identified 17 iconic cities in India, and Khajuraho is proudly among them.

A large number of foreign tourists also visit the nearby Panna Tiger Reserve. With the introduction of the new air service and Vande Bharat connectivity, Khajuraho has become even more accessible. Shri Sharma said that while Panna is renowned for its diamonds, Rajgarh Palace will emerge as the ‘Diamond of the hotel industry’ in the years ahead.

Highlighting the grandeur of Rajgarh Palace, Shri Arjun Oberoi said that Madhya Pradesh is a centre of immense tourism potential and cultural richness. The design and architecture of Rajgarh Palace provide visitors an opportunity to experience the state’s historical heritage up close. He expressed confidence that Rajgarh Palace would serve as a distinguished gateway for tourists visiting Madhya Pradesh.

The event was attended by Minister of State for Forests and Environment Shri Dilip Ahirwar, MLAs Shri Arvind Pateria, Smt. Lalita Yadav, Shri Rajesh Shukla and Shri Kamakhya Pratap Singh, District Panchayat President Smt. Vidya Agnihotri, Additional Chief Secretary (Culture and Tourism) Shri Shiv Shekhar Shukla, DIG Shri Vijay Khatri, Collector Shri Parth Jaiswal, Superintendent of Police Shri Agam Jain, along with local public representatives and officials of the Oberoi Group.