Maharashtra’s Tourism Roadmap 2025: Shambhuraj Desai On Policy, Sustainability And Global Ambitions

What is the core focus of the Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2025? How does it benefit stakeholders?The policy aims to attract INR 1 lakh crore in investments by 2030 and create 18 lakh jobs, supporting the state’s USD 1 trillion economy target for 2028. It emphasises eco-tourism, rural and agro-tourism, adventure, caravan, Yuva, and river tourism. Incentives include capital subsidies up to INR 20 crore, GST waivers, electricity concessions, and stamp duty reductions. Local communities are integrated through initiatives like Tourism Mitra, which ensures safe tourist activities, and awards for homestays and agro-tourism units. The policy also fosters collaboration with tour operators, MICE organisers, and trade associations.What steps is the government taking to promote lesser-known destinations?We are focusing on rebranding and promoting destinations beyond the mainstream, such as Matheran, Chikhaldara, Velas, Harihareshwar, and forts like Sindhudurg and Panhala. Digital platforms, social media campaigns, and virtual tours are being used to highlight their potential. Infrastructure is being upgraded with better roads, signage, tourist amenities, and eco-friendly stays. Based on investment potential, public-private partnerships are being encouraged in tiered regions (A, B, C). Community-based tourism is a key priority, empowering local guides, artisans, and homestay providers to create authentic experiences such as village tours and cultural festivals.How is the Department of Tourism promoting rural and agro-tourism?We are developing agro-tourism hubs where visitors can engage in farm-based activities like organic farming and harvest festivals. Subsidies and grants are being provided to rural entrepreneurs for homestays, farm tours, and local cuisine experiences. The Aai Policy registers women-owned tourism businesses in every district to empower women entrepreneurs. Connectivity improvements, including road networks and digital ticketing, are being made. Local festivals such as the Ganesh Festival, Glamping Festival, Hindavi Swarajya Mahotsav, and Mahabaleshwar Festival are being promoted to boost rural and agro-tourism.How are you aligning tourism development with sustainability goals?Controlled visitor access, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching measures are being implemented to protect ecosystems. A share of tourism revenue is reinvested into conservation, including wildlife protection and heritage site maintenance. Initiatives such as afforestation, revival of traditional crafts, and farm-to-table gastronomy are being promoted. Tourist sites are being developed as no single-use plastic zones, with clean drinking water and waste management systems.What are your top three tourism priorities for the next 12 months?First, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region will be strengthened as a tourism hub, leveraging infrastructure like the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Navi Mumbai airport, and coastal projects in Gorai, Alibaug, and Madh. This will help position MMR as a combined business and leisure destination.Second, positioning Maharashtra as India’s leading MICE destination. The Maharashtra Convention Bureau, launched in May 2025 at IMEX Frankfurt, is the first state-led initiative in this space. Cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur will be promoted as interconnected hubs with diverse venues and strong transport networks.Third, promoting the 12 Maratha forts inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in July 2025. We are upgrading facilities with better signage and information centres, and training local guides near forts like Salher, Shivneri, and Sindhudurg. Global promotion through digital campaigns, tourism fairs, and influencer partnerships will be prioritised.How will the Namo Tourism Skill Program and the Namo Tourism Information and Facilitation Center initiatives contribute to Maharashtra’s tourism sector?The Namo Tourism Skill Program and the Namo Tourism Information and Facilitation Centres are transformative steps for Maharashtra’s tourism sector. The Skill Program will train 7,500 youth, giving them professional expertise in hospitality and guiding, while also creating local employment and making them partners in promoting the state’s culture and history. Tourists will benefit from authentic, informed experiences. At the same time, the Facilitation Centres at key heritage sites like Raigad, Pratapgad, and Shivneri will enhance visitor comfort with modern amenities such as baby care rooms, disabled-friendly facilities, and digital platforms, ensuring safer, more inclusive, and enriching travel.Indian Responsible Tourism State Awards 2026 – Maharashtra Chapter Celebrates Excellence In Responsible Tourism