The Madhya Pradesh Tourism delegation concluded its successful participation at IFTM Top Resa 2022 with more than 60 meetings with travel trade partners, media and consumers over the course of the three day event.

Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Govt of Madhya Pradesh and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board led the delegation that comprised some prominent tour operators from the state. Meetings with important tour operators such as TUI, Sita, ASIA, Marco Vasco, etc, were very fruitful and will lead to the addition of more MP based itineraries. Media companies included Desirs De Voyage, National Geographic, France TV and Marie France and other leading publishing houses.

An event showcasing the various facets of Madhya Pradesh Tourism was held at the Embassy of India in Paris on Friday. His Excellency, Jawed Ashraf, Ambassador of India to France and Monaco spoke about the multifarious tourism products that Madhya Pradesh offered such as the spectacular wildlife, heritage and culinary offerings of the state in his opening remarks. Mr. Shukla addressed the audience and spoke about ties between Madhya Pradesh and France dating back to the Bourbon era.

He also spoke about the various new initiatives that have been introduced in the state such as skill-training for women in the field of tourism which will have the dual advantage of offering women a livelihood while improving safety of female travellers, both solo and group.

He also spoke about film tourism which offers a single window clearance for film/ TV shooting units who choose MP for their productions. He also added that financial subsidies are available for films shot in the state.

An audio visual presentation was followed by a cultural program showcasing folk and classical dances of MP such as Matka, Badhai and Kathak. Special delicacies from the state such as Poha Jalebi, Bhopali Lamb Korma, Kuno Dal Handi and Shikanji were served to the guests at the event.

Later in the day, the delegation met with Vishal V Sharma, Indian Ambassador to UNESCO to discuss the various upcoming projects in the state. Sharma appreciated the initiatives taken by the Madhya Pradesh government in the conservation of heritage and was particularly happy with the various TV commercials promoting MP which are memorable and highly creative. This was followed by a meeting with senior officers of UNESCO including Jyoti Hosagrahar, Deputy Director for the World Heritage Centre.