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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.
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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.
