Tourism Summit in Gwalior Secures INR 3,500 Crore in financial commitments

The Gwalior Tourism Conclave 2025, held at the Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agricultural University campus, brought together investors, industry leaders, artisans, and policymakers to discuss and drive the development of tourism in Madhya Pradesh.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized tourism as a cornerstone of prosperity, stating that it strengthens national income and creates employment opportunities. He drew parallels between the state's architectural heritage and India's political landmarks, highlighting the potential for tourism to showcase the state's rich history and culture.

One of the key highlights of the conclave was the announcement of a heritage city development project for Gwalior Fort. The project aims to beautify the fort and introduce homestay options, enhancing the tourist experience. Seven land parcels were issued to six investors, unlocking more than INR 60 crore in immediate investments.

The conservation and beautification of Gwalior Fort was a significant component of the comprehensive master plan unveiled at the event. INR 58.46 crore was allocated for works at the Raja Man Singh Tomar Music and Arts University, a testament to the government's commitment to preserving and promoting the state's cultural heritage.

The CM also announced a INR 50 crore allocation for the upcoming Raja Man Singh Tomar Music University in Gwalior. The university is expected to play a pivotal role in nurturing and promoting the state's thriving craft traditions.

The conclave showcased Madhya Pradesh's rich craft traditions, with exhibitions of various art forms like terracotta pieces, wooden toys, handloom textiles, Sikki art, bamboo paper toys, resin work, and cloth dolls. Batto Bai dolls, a traditional craft from Gwalior, were prominently featured. These dolls, considered auspicious for unmarried girls, are always sold in pairs, with the tradition known as Gudda-Gudiya. They range from a few inches to two feet in height and remain popular as home décor and souvenirs.

Batto Bai, a pioneering craftswoman from Gwalior, gained international acclaim and several state and national awards. Her fourth-generation family continues to handcraft the dolls using materials like rags, paper, clay, cotton, bamboo, and bright fabrics.

Cultural performances, such as the Languriya folk dance, were a major draw at the conclave, showcasing traditional narratives of womanhood and devotion. A short film on Chambal was screened, presenting it as a pristine river landscape.

In addition to the cultural and heritage initiatives, the conclave also focused on digital marketing efforts. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board signed MoUs to drive influencer campaigns and digital marketing efforts. A dedicated e-commerce platform was launched to promote traditional crafts and weaving.

The conclave generated investment proposals worth INR 3,500 crore. One such proposal is a new project in Morena district, which includes the foundation stone for a hydrogen plant at Piparsaira Industrial Area with an investment of about INR 500 crore.

The CM also laid the foundation stone for development projects worth INR 17 crore at Gwalior's historic Phoolbagh. Jiwaji University has secured substantial funds under the PM Usha scheme.

The Gwalior Tourism Conclave 2025 marked a significant step towards the development and promotion of tourism in Madhya Pradesh, promising a renaissance for the state's cultural and historical sites.