Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that the expansion of the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Center (Minto Hall) and the construction of a new convention center will fulfill Bhopal’s long-standing need for a venue to host large-scale events. He highlighted the success of the Global Investors Summit held at the National Museum of Mankind, where the necessity of such a facility was realized. Shortly after the announcement, the central government approved the project, making it one of the first major initiatives under the new Union Budget. The construction work will commence soon.
Yadav emphasized that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, not only are various sectors witnessing rapid development, but significant efforts are also being made to enhance public infrastructure in cities. The growth of Bhopal and Madhya Pradesh will align with Prime Minister Modi’s vision.
Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony held at the main auditorium of Kushabhau Thakre Convention Center, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav directed tourism department officials to ensure that the architectural design of the new center, which will be built at a cost of ?100 crore, aligns with the aesthetics of the existing convention center. This facility will be instrumental in hosting high-level meetings, business conferences, and large-scale events.
Bhopal as the ‘Tiger Capital’
Yadav highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s growing reputation in the tourism sector. He mentioned that the natural beauty of Bhopal was a topic of discussion among delegates at the Global Investors Summit. With the highest tiger population in India and the recent declaration of Madhav National Park as the ninth tiger reserve in the state, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a prominent destination for wildlife tourism.
He noted that Bhopal uniquely exemplifies human-wildlife coexistence, with the Ratapani Sanctuary located just 4-5 kilometers from the city, home to a significant tiger population. Additionally, Bhopal’s lakes host gharials, further reinforcing the city’s ecological significance. Madhya Pradesh remains the only state in India that houses cheetahs alongside numerous tiger reserves and a gharial sanctuary in the Chambal region.
Yadav praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, stating that he has realized Swami Vivekananda’s prophecy of the 21st century being India’s century. He also acknowledged India’s remarkable economic progress under Modi, surpassing England in global rankings. In line with this vision, Madhya Pradesh is taking significant strides in tourism development. The state’s first airport was in Khajuraho, and now efforts are being made to expand air connectivity, which will boost trade and commerce.
The Chief Minister expressed his happiness over the participation of industry and trade representatives, particularly those from the hotel and tourism sectors, at the foundation stone-laying event.
Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, Chaitanya Kumar Kashyap highlighted that within just ten days of Chief Minister Dr. Yadav’s announcement on February 25, the foundation stone for the convention center has been laid. He credited the success of the Global Investors Summit for fostering an environment of enthusiasm and attracting a large number of investors to the state, ensuring rapid industrial growth.
Senior Member of Parliament V.D. Sharma praised Yadav’s vision, stating that the new convention center will address the limitations of the existing facility, which had inadequate capacity for large events. He noted that Bhopal’s beauty has become a hallmark of the city, even impressing Prime Minister Modi during his visit. Tourism Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi also conveyed his congratulations via video message.
