The city of Gwalior has stepped into the national spotlight with its first ever regional tourism conclave. Held at the Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University campus, the two day event became a turning point for tourism in Madhya Pradesh by attracting massive investments, introducing bold heritage projects, and launching campaigns that will redefine how the state is seen across India and beyond.
A surge of optimism and opportunity defined the conclave as investors, policymakers, and cultural leaders came together to shape the future of tourism in the Gwalior Chambal and Bundelkhand regions. The event generated investment proposals worth INR 3,500 crore, demonstrating the confidence of both domestic and international stakeholders in Madhya Pradesh’s potential.
Chief minister Mohan Yadav set the tone by calling tourism a cornerstone of prosperity. He reminded the audience that Madhya Pradesh, the Heart of India, is uniquely placed to use tourism as a growth engine that creates jobs, boosts the economy, and strengthens cultural pride. His words echoed the larger vision of building an Atmanirbhar and globally recognised state that welcomes the world to explore its landscapes, heritage, and traditions.
One of the key outcomes of the conclave was the issuance of Letters of Allotment for seven land parcels to investors, unlocking projects ranging from hotels and resorts to eco tourism units. These ventures will not only create employment but also energise the hospitality sector and open new opportunities for local communities.
Heritage was at the heart of the conclave as well. Development projects worth INR 17 crore were initiated at Gwalior’s historic Phoolbagh under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, while an allocation of INR 58.46 crore was announced for the Raja Man Singh Tomar Music and Arts University. The state also unveiled a master plan for the conservation and beautification of the iconic Gwalior Fort, further enhancing the city’s global identity as a hub of culture and history.
Digital promotion emerged as a central focus. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board signed agreements to drive influencer campaigns and expand digital outreach, ensuring that destinations, festivals, and cultural events from the state reach audiences worldwide. This effort is set to give a modern voice to a region with timeless traditions.
The conclave was not only about investment but also about celebrating culture. Artisans showcased terracotta pieces, handloom textiles, bamboo paper toys, resin crafts, and the iconic Batto Bai dolls. These dolls, handcrafted for generations in Gwalior, symbolise artisanal pride and cultural continuity. Always made in pairs, they carry traditions of family, blessings, and heritage, and remain cherished as souvenirs that tell the story of Madhya Pradesh’s creative spirit.
Performances like the Languriya folk dance added a vibrant dimension, turning the conclave into a stage where heritage met modern aspirations. The event also screened a short film on Chambal, redefining perceptions of a region long misunderstood and presenting it instead as a landscape of rivers, wildlife, and pristine natural beauty.
Voices from politics, business, and the arts praised the initiative, with many highlighting how the conclave marks a fresh chapter in Madhya Pradesh’s tourism journey. Actor Piyush Mishra emphasised the importance of a film friendly climate, while tour operators expressed confidence in promoting the state’s destinations through new partnerships and familiarisation tours.
The momentum created by the conclave is already leading toward the upcoming Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart scheduled for October, which is expected to attract global tourism stakeholders and further strengthen the state’s position as a major player in India’s tourism landscape.
The Gwalior Tourism Conclave was more than an event. It was a statement that Madhya Pradesh is ready to embrace its identity as a cultural and tourism powerhouse. With new investments, ambitious heritage projects, and innovative campaigns, the state is building a future where visitors not only explore its monuments and landscapes but also connect deeply with its stories, people, and traditions.
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