Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) [India], February 25 (ANI): The Tourism Summit in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, witnessed a significant gathering of key figures from the tourism and entertainment industries, with Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and State Tourism Minister Dharmendra Lodhi participating in discussions centered on enhancing tourism in the State.

During his address, actor Pankaj Tripathi shared his deep connection with Madhya Pradesh, recalling his experiences shooting for films across the state.

'I remember, two years ago, there was a film festival going on in Goa. I was shooting for Stree in Chanderi. Mr Sheo Shekhar Shukla told me, you've shot four films here, and all of them were hits: Stree, Stree 2, Oh My God 2, and Luka Chhupi,' Tripathi said, highlighting the state's significance as a prime filming location.

The actor further shared fond memories of him travelling across the State for a tourism film shoot.

He recalled how, during a 20-day tour in September, he visited several famous locations such as Bhimbetka, Sanchi, Gwalior, and Vidisha by road.

'I fell in love with its beauty, especially after the monsoon,' Tripathi said. He praised the state's diverse landscapes and encouraged more tourists to explore its natural beauty.

In his remarks, Tripathi also shared his experiences during the filming of 'Fukrey 3' in Khajuraho and Panna National Park.

He recalled staying at the Madhya Pradesh Tourism guesthouse near the Panna National Park, where he had a unique experience of observing wildlife under a moonlit sky.

'The 15 nights I spent there were the most beautiful nights of my life. It wasn't just about seeing tigers, but feeling the jungle, listening to its sounds,' he added, emphasizing the profound connection he had developed with Madhya Pradesh's rich wildlife.

Tripathi also urged tourists to visit Madhya Pradesh, especially for its forests and rich heritage. 'You don't need to travel to South Africa to experience a forest; we have beautiful, vast forests right here in Madhya Pradesh,' he said.

The actor also noted how the state offers a peaceful environment for shooting films, with no disruptions or interference from locals.

Speaking after the summit, Tripathi stated, 'Madhya Pradesh is fantastic. I have shot five films here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to showcase its beauty to the world.'

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department is planning major developments in the sector, with a focus on attracting investments.

The state has identified over 1,000 hectares of land for tourism infrastructure expansion and aims to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination.

As part of this effort, the state introduced the Tourism Policy 2025 and Film Tourism Policy 2025, which include exclusive incentives for investors.

During the second day of the summit, a panel discussion was held on how tourism and culture could help create a 'Future-Ready Madhya Pradesh.'

Key participants included Union Minister for Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism V. Vidyavathi, and Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Managing Director Sheo Shekhar Shukla.

The state is actively seeking investments for tourism-related projects, offering preferential incentives for mega projects with investments exceeding Rs 100 crore.

The state's new tourism policies include capital grants ranging from 15 to 30 per cent and land allocation for up to 90 years at collector guideline rates.

The aim is to enhance Madhya Pradesh's tourism appeal, including the development of hotels, resorts, and eco-tourism initiatives.

To support this growth, the state has established an Investment Promotion Cell to ensure transparency in land allocation and timely approvals for tourism projects.

Incentives will also extend to projects in wildlife resorts, electric cruises, and remote areas, fostering sustainable development.

With these initiatives, Madhya Pradesh is set to become a key player in India's tourism industry, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

The Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025, which is being held in Bhopal, is expected to serve as a turning point for the state's tourism sector.

The summit is also anticipated to boost employment and economic growth in the region.

On the first day of the summit, the state signed 19 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with various companies and countries to promote investment and development projects, including the setting up of renewable energy projects, power plants, and cross-border trade initiatives. (ANI)