Madhya Pradesh: A Rising Star in Global Tourism Investment
Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Madhya Pradesh is fast becoming one of India’s most promising destinations for tourism investment. The state, with its vast potential and a growing commitment to developing world-class tourism infrastructure, is setting new benchmarks in creating an investor-friendly environment while offering unique experiences for travelers.
In recent remarks during the Tourism Summit at the Global Investors Summit (GIS), Chief Minister Dr. Yadav emphasized the state’s ongoing efforts to build and expand its tourism infrastructure. “The future of the Global Investors Summit will be focused on tourism,” he remarked, highlighting the increasing importance of this sector in the state’s growth. Dr. Yadav further stated that regular air services have been launched to improve connectivity and instill confidence among tourists. In a significant gesture of inclusivity, the state also offers free ambulance services for Ayushman Card holders, ensuring seamless travel experiences for all.
A Hub for Wildlife and Environmental Conservation
Madhya Pradesh stands as a leader in wildlife tourism, offering a diverse array of experiences that blend natural beauty with environmental conservation. The state’s unique ability to integrate wildlife and human settlements offers travelers rare opportunities to witness nature in harmony. Notably, cheetahs are often seen near villages in Sheopur, and even tigers have been spotted in the urban areas of Bhopal, demonstrating a rare balance between nature and urban life. This commitment to preserving wildlife has earned Madhya Pradesh the title of “Vulture State,” and the state continues to expand its tiger reserves, further cementing its position as a prime wildlife tourism destination.
Tourism: A Cornerstone of India’s Economic Growth
Union Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat underscored tourism’s crucial role in India’s economic development. He noted that Prime Minister Modi has identified three major sectors—Technology, Textiles, and Tourism—as pivotal to India’s future growth. By 2047, tourism is expected to contribute more than 10% to the nation’s GDP. With India’s middle-class spending power growing, bolstered by recent tax relief measures, domestic tourism is thriving. As travel demand surges, Madhya Pradesh is strategically positioned to capture a significant share of this expanding sector.
Madhya Pradesh: A Prime Investment Destination
Madhya Pradesh’s appeal as an investment hub in the tourism sector is undeniable. Shri Shekhawat, addressing global investors, assured them that the state is a gateway to vast tourism opportunities. The investor-friendly environment, coupled with policies designed to promote growth, ensures that Madhya Pradesh remains a compelling destination for tourism investments. The state’s supportive infrastructure, including robust road, rail, and air connectivity, along with its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives, further strengthens its position as an attractive investment destination.
Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trust & Endowments, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, echoed this sentiment, adding that Madhya Pradesh has also become a hotspot for film production, drawing blockbuster movies and solidifying its reputation as a cinematic destination.
Film Industry and Tourism: A Symbiotic Relationship
Actor Shri Pankaj Tripathi, a brand ambassador for Madhya Pradesh tourism, shared his deep personal connection to the state. “I played the role of a guide in a film shot here nearly 20 years ago, and I have been in love with Madhya Pradesh ever since,” he said. Encouraging domestic travelers, Tripathi emphasized that one doesn’t need to go abroad to experience some of the most stunning destinations in the world—Madhya Pradesh has it all.
The state has also become a hotspot for film production, offering filmmakers diverse, picturesque locations that have been featured in numerous films. Tripathi highlighted how the authenticity of locations, such as the ancient town of Chanderi, adds realism and depth to the films, ultimately benefiting both the film industry and the local economy. As films boost tourism, these locations become more prominent, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
Tourism Infrastructure Expansion and Investment Opportunities
Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism, Culture, and Religious Endowments, provided insights into the state’s ambitious tourism projects and the incentives available for investors under the Tourism Policy 2025 and the Film Tourism Policy 2025.
Madhya Pradesh’s investment appeal is enhanced by several factors:
- A streamlined single-window approval system for ease of business
- Available land parcels for tourism projects
- Strong connectivity via road, rail, and air
- Robust Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives
At GIS 2025, the state secured investment proposals exceeding ₹4,468 crore in the tourism and hospitality sector. Key investment areas include:
- Cruise tourism
- Film production studios
- Luxury hotels and resorts
- Water parks and golf courses
- Ultra-mega tourism projects
Noteworthy Investment Proposals:
- Ayodhya Cruise Lines – ₹70 crore for cruise tourism projects
- Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Ltd. – ₹100 crore for houseboats and water sports
- Jehan Numa Group of Hotels – ₹18 crore for a premium hotel in Mandu
- Amazon Prime, Hollywood Projects, Zee5 – ₹300 crore in film production investments
- Treasure Group – ₹600 crore for luxury resorts and golf courses
- Indian Hotels Company Ltd. – ₹1,960 crore for hospitality units across national parks
- ITC Hotels Pvt. Ltd. – ₹250 crore for heritage hotel development
- Imagica World Entertainment Ltd. – ₹200 crore for a water park near Indore
Strategic MoUs Signed at GIS 2025
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board also signed several key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to drive sustainable tourism development. These included partnerships focused on:
- Women’s safety
- Adventure tourism
- Cultural preservation
- Water tourism
Notable MoUs include:
- MakeMyTrip – Construction of ‘Pink Toilets’ at Orchha, providing employment to local women
- IndiaHikes – New trekking routes and adventure tourism campaigns
- Alchemy Cruise Lines – Launching a cruise service along the Narmada River
- UN Women – Gender equality awareness at major tourist destinations
Shaping the Future of Madhya Pradesh’s Tourism
At GIS 2025, a high-profile panel discussion explored the future of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism sector. Among the key participants were:
- Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of Tourism
- Dr. Ilayaraja T, MD of MP State Tourism Development Corporation
- Padma Shri K.K. Mohammed, Renowned Historian
- Padma Shri Ajit Bajaj, President, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India
- Actor Shri Pankaj Tripathi
- Shri Rohit Khosla, Executive VP, Indian Hotels Company Ltd.
The panel highlighted the state’s long-term vision for tourism, focusing on low-volume, high-value tourism, sustainable travel practices, and authentic rural experiences.
A Future-Ready, Sustainable Tourism Model
Madhya Pradesh’s tourism policy prioritizes sustainable practices, including the development of tranquil, rejuvenating destinations and rural homestays. The state is committed to creating a future-ready tourism model, supported by simplified investor policies like the Ease of Doing Films (EODF) initiative and single-window clearance.
With its rich cultural heritage, expanding tourism infrastructure, and unwavering government support, Madhya Pradesh is poised to become a global tourism powerhouse. Whether you are an investor, a traveler, or a filmmaker, Madhya Pradesh offers endless possibilities for exploration and growth.
As Padma Shri Historian Shri K.K. Mohammed aptly put it, “I am Surma Bhopali,” capturing the essence of Bhopal’s unique culture and history. The state’s untapped potential, from its UNESCO-listed heritage sites to its rich wildlife reserves, makes Madhya Pradesh a top destination for those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
