Latest news with #MPTB
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Plans afoot to develop craft & handloom village in Maheshwar
Indore: The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) is planning to involve local artisans from Kharia village in Maheshwar through choupals, aiming to transform the village into a craft and handloom hub. In Maheshwar, the board intends to develop a textile village, cafeteria, traditionally designed home stays, and restaurants that will be operated by the local community. Kharia village in Maheshwar is home to more than 100 weavers. "A choupal is planned for next week with artisans at Kharia village in Maheshwar to understand their needs and explore how the craft tourism village could help transform their lives. This initiative will give them an economic tool to enhance their income and a platform to showcase Maheshwari textile to all discerning tourists coming to see the beauty of quaint Maheshwar and expanse of grand Narmada," said tourism and culture principal secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla. The choupal will be attended by villagers, representatives from NGOs, and senior officials from the tourism department. MPTB has submitted a proposal to handlooms development commissioner for developing "textile tourism" in Maheshwar. The villages of Kharia and Keriakhedi in Maheshwar accommodate approximately 146 weavers. The estimated cost of the project is approximately Rs 511 crore. The proposed project will also feature an experience centre, cycling tracks and common areas, alongside scenic ghats, all aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and attracting tourists. The tourism board is also working on establishing another craft village in Dhar to promote the renowned Bagh print. Kukshi and Bagh, notable areas in Dhar district, are famous for their unique Bagh print — a traditional hand-block printing technique using natural colours and vegetable dyes. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
MP tourism board to hold annual fest at Gandhi Sagar in Sept
Indore: Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) plans to host the next edition of annual fest at Gandhi Sagar in September. The fests at two other locations, Kuno and Chanderi, are planned for October. The tourism department hosts annual fests at selected tourist locations in the state to attract footfall. Locally made handicraft items, crafts, clothes, and other products are showcased to tourists during the fest. "The annual fest at Gandhi Sagar will be held in September. The preparations have started, and the plan is to add new things to the event to make it more interesting so that it will engage more tourists," MPTB advisor Yuvraj Padole said. For Chanderi, it would be the third edition of the fest, where tourism department aims to showcase distinguished art and craft heritage, exhibit artisanal crafts and Chanderi textiles. The tourism board is pursuing agencies to establish tent sites in Mandu, Orchha, and Tamia to incorporate recreational and adventure activities. MPTB intends to introduce aerial, aquatic, and terrestrial activities in the tent cities to entice tourists. "These annual fests are not just a medium to promote various tourist locations in the state, but they open multiple avenues of income for locals. The increase in tourist footfall generates employment opportunities for locals and increases their income," said Padole. The annual Jal Mahotsav at Hanuwantiya again is unlikely to happen this year as the board still has not finalised the agency for hosting the fest. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
In Ujjain, locals open homestays to cash in on rush of devotees during Shravan month
Ujjain: As the holy month of Shravan has started, locals in Ujjain, known for its rich history and spiritual significance, are seizing the opportunity to convert their homes into homestays. They are catering to surging influx of devotees flocking to the city for religious rituals and festivities. Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) has registered over 60 homestays in Ujjain city, while those outside the ambit of the board are estimated in thousands, significantly reshaping the local economy. A couple, Ramesh and Kavita Sharma, has recently opened their doors to tourists seeking a place to stay during the auspicious Shravan month when the footfall of devotees goes up. Their two-bedroom home, nestled just a short walk from the famous Mahakaleshwar temple, was transformed from a family residence into a welcoming homestay. "We realised that many visitors do not just want a place to sleep but seek a homely atmosphere that connects them to the culture of Ujjain, especially those coming from other states like Maharashtra. Also, they get a feel of home and it is much more economical than any hotel," said Kavita, who assists her husband in running a small grocery shop in Ujjain. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Last year, the Sharma couple had earned an additional income of around Rs 35,000 during the festive month alone, a figure they expect to surpass this year. The average tourist footfall in Ujjain is to more than 2 lakh per day during the Shravan month, with weekends recording a significant spike in visitors. Like the Sharmas, many others have embraced the opportunity to share their space with travellers. Another homestay owner, Krishnalata Nathniya, turned into an entrepreneur at the age of 46 with her two-room homestay located within 1 km area of Mahakal temple. The Nathniya couple found joy in connecting with their guests, sharing local stories, and even offering homemade snacks that feature traditional recipes passed down through generations. "Our ground portion of the house was unused, so, we turned it into a homestay. We get lots of guests and positive feedback. It keeps me busy and has given a new identity," Krishnalata said proudly, emphasising that she now gives employment to people in her homestay. She said the demand for workforce increases sharply in Ujjain and the average salary of a worker increases to at least Rs 12,000 a month. A young entrepreneur, Devansh Gangrade, turned his property into a villa, capitalising on the opportunity. "This business model is very attractive and opens an additional source of income. In the digital age, online booking platforms have made business and reaching out to customers easier. The average income from homestays is not less than Rs 3-4 lakh per annum." With the MPTB backing these initiatives, many are encouraged to take that entrepreneurial leap. In preparation for Simhastha 2028, the board has commenced development work in villages of Kamed and Undasa near Ujjain. Each location will host between 6 and 12 homestays. "We have taken up projects across several places near tourist and religious place to make homestays. We are working to develop meaningful cultural exchanges between hosts and guests, while generating additional income sources for local communities," said Sheo Shekhar Shukla, principal secretary of tourism and culture.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
MP govt promotes rural tourism with new homestays partnerships and recognition for achievements
Bhopal: Highlighting the importance of rural tourism, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday said that tourism in villages generates local jobs for young people while showcasing cultural heritage, festivities, and local food internationally. He was addressing the 'Grameen Rang - Paryatan Sang' state event at the Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium. He said that expanding homestay network in the state exemplifies "Atithi Devo Bhava." The govt works alongside homestay operators, with support from Panchayat and Rural Development and Tribal Affairs departments, to ensure visitors receive outstanding service, he said. Yadav discussed India's pilgrimage heritage, observing that whilst foreign visitors seek recreational activities, Indians undertake spiritual journeys like the Char Dham Yatra, maintaining Sanatan cultural traditions and discovering regional customs. The CM explored the rural tourism display, engaged with district representatives, and participated in clay artistry. He introduced a microsite for the Responsible Tourism Mission to enhance rural tourism and digital homestay reservations, offering visitors detailed information about rural experiences. He also virtually launched 241 village homestays. *MoUs Signed to Promote Tourism* Four significant MoUs were executed in CM Yadav's presence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Total AV 2025 – Save Up to 80% Off Antivirus Today Total AV - Tier 2 Install Now Undo MPTB partnered with Patanjali's Divya Yog Mandir Trust for rural development and tourism infrastructure, with Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla and Patanjali's scientific advisors as signatories. MPTB joined forces with Signify Innovations India Ltd. for energy-efficient lighting in tourist villages. Further collaborations were formed with Scope Global Skills University for tourism development and skill enhancement, and between MPTB and MPSTDC for digital integration of rural homestays. Yadav announced forthcoming helicopter services through the State Tourism Board. A wellness summit is scheduled to enhance tourist services, incorporating wildlife, religious, and healthcare tourism. He emphasised developing innovative promotional approaches to establish Madhya Pradesh as a worldwide tourism destination. Ten district collectors received recognition for achieving homestay targets. The CM commended representatives from 16 village panchayats and institutions for their contributions to rural tourism, interacting with homestay operators from various districts. Tourist visits increased by 526% in 2024 compared to 2020. Notable growth was seen at Kanha, Pench, and Bandhavgarh, amongst India's leading national parks. The state ranks first in tiger population and wildlife diversity. The 241 new homestays near tourist spots provide authentic rural experiences, including local cuisine and cultural activities. Madhya Pradesh targets establishing 1,000 homestays statewide. Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhavsingh Lodhi reported over 134.1 million tourist visits last year. Under CM Dr Yadav, 241 homestays were established across 121 villages. Villages from Panna (Madla), Niwari (Ladpura Khas), and Sidhi (Khas) earned national recognition as premier tourism villages. Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla detailed the Responsible Tourism Mission's achievements. MP Tourism Corporation trained 10,000 women in hospitality. Self-help groups and artisans create handicrafts purchased by tourists and hotels nationwide. Tourist locations are receiving Divyang facilities, supported by CSR funds. CM Dr Yadav viewed exhibitions featuring traditional crafts including clay art, Mandna, Chitera, bamboo crafts, hand block printing, Gond paintings, and textiles, engaging with artisans.
Time of India
17-06-2025
- Time of India
MP explores cruising options, feasibility study underway
Indore: Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) is mulling over starting short and medium distance crusing excursions for tourists in the backwaters at potential locations in the state for which a feasibility study has been initiated. The short and medium distance cruising excursions will be part of the proposed 120 km cruise expedition on the Narmada River that will traverse from Ekatma Dham (the Statue of Oneness) situated at Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh to the Statue of Unity in Kevadiya, Gujarat. As per the initial proposal, a 2 night crusing excursion is being planned from Kukshi to Sardar Sarovar while day cruising is planned for about 45 minutes in and around Kukshi in Dhar district. The board has initiated a feasibility study to evaluate short and medium distance cruise operations in the backwaters of Gandhisagar, Rajghat (Chanderi), Omkareshwar, Indira Sagar, Tawa and Bargi dams. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, said we are doing feasibility study for short and medium distance cruise operations in the backwaters of Gandhisagar, Rajghat (Chanderi), Omkareshwar, Indira Sagar, Tawa and Bargi dams. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pensioners Born Before 1971 Wanted To Test Hearing Aids Best Hearing Aids Apply Now Undo The board is mulling over various cruising excursions for visitors following guidelines of the Inland Vessels Act, 2021, which was enacted in India to revise the registration and regulation of vessels operating in inland waterways. Commander Rajendra Nigam (retd), Adviser Water Tourism, MPTDC said excursions are being planned following the guidelines of the Inland Vessels Act (INVA) 2021. The cruise operations will be conducted on a Public-Private Partnerships mode for which the board has received around 3-4 expressions of interest. For the project, a total of four terminals will be established along the 120 km route of which two terminals will be constructed in MP at Kukshi and Sakarja in Alirajpur district, and the other two terminals shall be established at Hanfeshwar and Mokhadi in Gujarat.
