Latest news with #MPTB
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.
Time of India
16-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Madhya Pradesh tourism board hosts high-impact workshop at Kanha to promote year-round, sustainable, and adventure-based tourism
Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board aims to establish the state as a year-round destination by promoting diverse experiences beyond tiger safaris BHOPAL: In a move to position the state as a year-round global tourism destination, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) recently concluded a high-impact two-day workshop at Bagheera Resort, Mocha, near the Kanha Tiger Reserve. Held under the guidance of Shiv Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary of the Tourism Department, the workshop focused on diversifying tourism experiences beyond the traditional tiger safaris. The event emphasised sustainability, adventure, and cultural integration. Stakeholders from the tourism and conservation sectors gathered to explore strategies for increasing tourist footfall, even during the monsoon closure of core zones, by promoting buffer areas through alternative tourism models. Speaking at the workshop, Dr S K Srivastava, Joint Director of the Adventure Sports Department, said Madhya Pradesh is emerging as a hub for adventure tourism in India. Activities like skydiving, cycling safaris, and trekking are gaining popularity under the Tourism Board's Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Successful events, such as the Lake Festival in Mandla and trekking initiatives in Pench and Alirajpur, highlight the state's growing appeal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The development of 'Pancharanya', a cultural and spiritual tourism project in Mandla and Pachmarhi, was also announced. 'Two acres of land will be allocated in Mandla to build a structure celebrating local folklore, tribal culture, and spiritual heritage,' said Dr Srivastava, adding that the project would empower local artisans and promote indigenous products. The workshop highlighted the untapped potential of Kanha's buffer zones as tourism assets. Amita K, Deputy Director of the Kanha Forest Division Buffer Zone, gave a presentation on eco-tourism and responsible travel, emphasising the benefits to local communities when tourism is managed sustainably. Shreyansh Komat, CEO of Zila Panchayat Mandla, said the district's rich spiritual and tribal traditions must be showcased. 'Mandla is not just about forests and wildlife—it's a cultural landscape. We must highlight places like Mahishmati Ghat, Chaugan Madhiya, and the Panch Chowki Mahaarati as heritage destinations,' he stated. Sessions featured discussions on wellness tourism, sky gazing, cycling tours, and eco-sensitive adventure sports. A panel of adventure operators, filmmakers, insurance professionals, and conservationists discussed how storytelling through films, documentaries, and social media could create emotional connections with wildlife and conservation. Wildlife photographer Farhan Khan screened documentaries showcasing central India's biodiversity. Filmmaker Nishant Kapoor stressed the power of visual media in shaping public opinion and environmental awareness. In a significant announcement, Dr Srivastava said the Tourism Board plans to launch a helicopter service from Jabalpur to Kanha to cut down travel time. 'A helipad will be built near Mocha or the Khatiya Gate area to support this service,' he said. Hotel and resort operators suggested renaming Khatiya Gate, claiming that many tourists mistakenly believe it lacks access to core zones or tiger sightings, which leads to confusion and discourages visits. The MPTB, in partnership with private adventure operators, will host a series of events from 14 to 17 August, including a marathon, trekking expeditions, star gazing, and the 'Tour of Kanha' cycling event—expected to boost off-season tourism and promote Kanha as a diverse destination. As part of the programme, attendees visited the Baiga Art Gallery in Mocha and enjoyed a live performance of traditional Baiga dance, showcasing the region's tribal culture. Sonali Dev, SDM of Bichhiya, said adventure tourism and tribal heritage are the twin pillars of Mandla's tourism development. Efforts are also underway to secure Green Destination Certification for Kanha National Park, similar to Pachmarhi. This international recognition, based on Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards, is expected to boost Kanha's appeal among eco-conscious international travellers.
Time of India
01-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Mandu set for major tourism makeover, local homestay boost
Indore: The historic fort city of Mandu is poised for significant development aimed at enhancing tourist facilities and infrastructure. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) estimated the beautification project to cost around Rs 25 crore. Renowned as one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the Indore region, Mandu saw a notable increase in visitor numbers. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, principal secretary of Tourism and Culture for Madhya Pradesh, said that the beautification efforts are expected to commence after the monsoon season. "Our goal is to make Mandu more tourist-friendly and ensure that visitors can fully appreciate its historical beauty. We want to create an unforgettable experience for everyone who visits this remarkable fort city," said Shukla. This rising influx encouraged several Bhil tribal families to venture into entrepreneurship, offering homestays near Dhar in the Malipura area. One homestay owner, Dinesh Katare, said, "We are so excited about the upcoming tourist season. The training we received empowered us to share our culture and hospitality with visitors, and we look forward to welcoming more guests to our home. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo More families in our village are planning to start homestays as an alternative mode of income." To prepare these families for this venture, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board provided training in hospitality and various job roles as part of its Rural Tourism project. This initiative identified 100 villages across the state, assisting beneficiaries in developing homestay facilities and enhancing locally made products and culinary offerings. Moreover, the tourism department is actively pursuing partnerships to hold annual fests in Mandu, Orchha, and Tamia, aimed at incorporating recreational and adventure activities that further enrich the tourism experience.
