Neighbouring states key markets

Yuvraj Padole, Deputy Director (Events & Marketing) Madhya Pradesh Tourism, highlights some key industry  engagements that his department has planned such as the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart, creating new road trip  itineraries for the trade and registration of service providers in the state.

Hazel Jain

What challenges is the state facing right now?

We have opened our hotels, resorts and destinations following all safety and hygiene protocols, and guidelines issued by the Central and state government. However, a major challenge that we are facing is to build the confidence in tourist’s mind about the safety at our tourist destinations.Train and air services are also not regular, creating a hassle for travellers. The only way people are travelling is by road to visit nearby destinations. We are in the process of rebuilding the confidence and trust among travellers through social media platforms to ensure them that all safety norms are being followed in the state.

Are you looking to conduct any roadshows?

Yes, Madhya Pradesh Tourism is already in the process of conducting both virtual and physical roadshows for all our stakeholders in various source market cities of the country. MP Tourism has also gradually started organising various virtual and physical events such as Jal Mahotsav, and other promotional campaigns.

What new products and experiences is MP Tourism planning to push in 2021?

Keeping in mind the new normal, our focus is more on destinations that fit into the frame of experiential activities – such as responsible tourism, wellness and mindful tourism. We are also focusing on promoting homestays, gram-stays and farmstays as a safe and culturally-rich option for guests so they can experience our rural culture, food and traditions. We have created special itineraries for this. We have also initiated the registration of service providers in the state. The state tourism is hand-holding all stakeholders to equip them in providing better services to their clients.

What prompted MPT to open film shoots first?

Madhya Pradesh is the first state in India to accomplish successful film and TV shootings under strict guidelines amidst the pandemic. Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board recently launched a new Film Tourism Policy to promote seamless film shoots in the state. Films showcase the natural and cultural heritage of the state which inspire and influence tourists to visit it. It will also definitely contribute in state’s tourism revenue.