Steps undertaken to promote tourism in MP successful: Puar

BHOPAL: Steps undertaken to promote tourism in the state have been very successful, Madhya Pradesh Minister of State for Tourism, Sports and Youth Welfare Tukojirao Puar said on Saturday.

"Religious, historic and natural sites are being developed as tourist destinations so that more and more national and international tourists will be attracted to the state," he said addressing a three-day workshop organised by World Travel and Tourism Council at Khajuraho.

Union Minister of State for Tourism Kanti Singh, local MP Ramakrishna Kusmaria and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation Ashwini Lohani were also present.

Puar said the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Policy was formulated in 2004 and if needed, amendments to this policy could be made.

The tourism potential of the state is being increased by dividing Madhya Pradesh into tourism sectors. Special attention is being given to developing Panna, Chitrakoot, Khajuraho and Orchha as tourist destinations.

He said areas are being developed for religious, historic and natural tourism to attract both national and international tourists. Thirty-seven tourist places have been selected for further development.

Puar said an investors' meet was held at Bhopal to promote the tourism industry. The State government has been undertaking efforts to rope in national and international investors.