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In Bhopal, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced a new initiative to drive tourism and investment in Madhya Pradesh during the 39th annual conference of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). He highlighted Ujjain's Vedic clock, a globally recognized timekeeping marvel, and described Bhopal as a flourishing tourism hub. Yadav stressed the state's commitment to harnessing the tourism potential and applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his recent symbolic train journey from Poland to Ukraine. The conference also saw the release of the IATO manual and a documentary screening, while the late M L Rajdan was posthumously honored with the Hall of Fame Award by IATO.
Puneet Chhatwal, MD and CEO of Indian Hotel Company Limited, was also recognized during the event. Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Sheo Shekhar Shukla expressed confidence that the IATO Madhya Pradesh Convention would set a new standard for future conventions, encouraging delegates to explore the state's rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty. Furthermore, a cultural performance titled "Enchanting Madhya Pradesh: The Heartland of India" was presented by the Madhya Pradesh Government's Culture Department and directed by Maitreyi Pahar.The presentation highlighted the state's rich history and stunning natural landscapes with a 40-minute dance performance featuring 53 artists. Kailash Sisodia and his group from Dhar performed the traditional Bhagoria dance of the Bhil tribe, enchanting the audience of tour operators from various parts of the country.