Raipur: Chhattisgarh is emerging as a strong tourism hub, thanks to proactive government policies promoting tourism, culture, and heritage. Officials highlighted achievements of the past two years and outlined plans for the coming period during a press conference in Raipur.
Tourism Becomes a Key Driver of State Economy
Officials noted that tourism is increasingly forming a solid foundation for Chhattisgarh’s economy, while culture and archaeology have elevated the state’s identity at national and international levels.
- Tourism Recognized as an Industry: Private investment surged after tourism was officially given industry status, with over ₹500 crore secured through programs like Investor Connect.
- Religious Tourism Boosted: The Ramlalla Darshan Scheme facilitated thousands of pilgrims traveling to Ayodhya via special trains, strengthening religious tourism.
- Rural Tourism Expansion: A new homestay policy aims to develop 500 homestays, providing capital and interest subsidies to create employment opportunities for local residents.
Infrastructure and Film Industry Development
To promote film and cultural activities, officials revealed that Nava Raipur is seeing the development of an integrated film city and convention center at a cost of ₹350 crore. This project aims to position Chhattisgarh as a major center for film production and cultural events.
Heritage and Religious Tourism Initiatives
Significant projects are underway to promote religious and heritage tourism:
- Bhoramdev Temple Corridor: Developed under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to give the historical site national recognition
- Sirpur World Heritage Site: An integrated master plan is being prepared to develop the site for global recognition
- Chitrakote Waterfall: Plans for the Chitrakote Indigenous Nature Retreat are in progress, with expected ₹250 crore central funding to develop it as an international tourism destination
Cultural Promotion and Artist Welfare
The Culture Department has launched multiple initiatives:
- Chinhari Portal: Registration and pension schemes for artists and writers
- Artist Welfare Fund: Financial support for needy artists and their families
- Bastar Pandum 2026: Promotes tribal culture, dance, folk music, crafts, and traditions
Archaeological excavations have also uncovered new insights into the state’s ancient history, further enhancing Chhattisgarh’s cultural heritage.
Global Recognition and Tourism Revenue
Chhattisgarh Tourism Board actively participated in national and international promotional events, resulting in:
- Increased recognition of the state’s tourism sites globally
- Growth in the number of tour and travel operators
- Significant increase in revenue for the Tourism Board
