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Maharashtra Sets Up India’s First State-Backed Bureau for MICE Tourism

Maharashtra Sets Up India’s First State-Backed Bureau for MICE Tourism

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
by 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
4 minutes read
News
May 31, 2025

Maharashtra Convention Bureau: A New Era in MICE

The Maharashtra Government has unveiled the Maharashtra Convention Bureau (MCB), which stands as India’s first state-supported entity dedicated to advancing global Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. This initiative, announced at the IMEX Frankfurt, positions Maharashtra, particularly Mumbai, as a pivotal hub for significant business events and aligns with the state’s broader tourism strategy.

Strategic Intent Behind the Bureau

In its quest to elevate Maharashtra’s status on the global business events landscape, the government is laying the groundwork for the Maharashtra Convention Bureau. This bureau will operate primarily from Mumbai, focusing on attracting and facilitating international conventions, exhibitions, and professional gatherings across the state. The initiative is a crucial component of the Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024, aiming to stimulate economic growth by enhancing the region’s attractiveness to event organizers.

Key Figures at IMEX Frankfurt

Representatives from Maharashtra included Indranil Naik, the Minister of State for Tourism, alongside key officials like Atul Patne (Principal Secretary, Tourism), Santosh Rokade (Deputy Secretary), and B.N. Patil (Director, Directorate of Tourism). Naik expressed the government’s commitment, emphasizing, “Through strategic investment in MICE tourism, we are creating a platform for innovation and intellectual exchange.” This commitment not only aims to elevate Maharashtra as a premier destination but also to generate opportunities for local youth and entrepreneurs.

Collaboration with Local Venues

The MCB will work closely with local hotels, venues, and service providers to streamline event planning and execution. With vibrant cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur at its core, Maharashtra boasts diverse venues and impressive infrastructure to cater to a range of needs.

Atul Patne highlighted how this initiative underscores the increasing significance of business tourism in Maharashtra’s economy, stating, “We are proud that the Jio World Convention Centre has already hosted prestigious events, and we look forward to welcoming many more.”

Upcoming Events in the Pipeline

A number of high-profile events are already slated for Mumbai, such as:

  • International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (2025)
  • Asian Seed Congress (2025)
  • International Forum of Architects (2027)

Moreover, the city is vying to host the prestigious International Astronautical Congress in 2028, further bolstering its reputation on the global MICE stage.

Impact on Maharashtra’s Tourism Landscape

Dr. Senthil Gopinath, the CEO of the International Congress and Convention Association, remarked that Maharashtra’s bold move sets a standard for India’s MICE sector. The establishment of the MCB exemplifies how dedicated leadership and well-developed infrastructure can position a region prominently on the global MICE map.

Significance in the Global Context

Maharashtra’s increasing focus on business events resonates with India’s expanding presence on the international stage, particularly after its G20 Presidency. This strategy not only draws global attention but also aligns with trends in business tourism, enhancing Maharashtra’s economic fabric.

Conclusion: A Gateway to MICE Tourism

The launch of the Maharashtra Convention Bureau is a significant step towards elevating MICE tourism in India. As the nation embraces its potential as a global hub for business events, Maharashtra’s strategy serves as a blueprint for other states aiming to enhance their tourism offerings. For those looking to experience this exciting development firsthand, booking transfers with LocalsRide.com offers a unique advantage. Users can select their preferred vehicle while accessing transparency in costs and service quality, ensuring an effortless travel experience in and around Maharashtra.

In summary, while the impact of Maharashtra’s new initiative will unfold over time, it emphasizes the crucial role of dedicated infrastructure and government backing in promoting MICE tourism. LocalsRide is positioned to support this vibrant travel trend by providing a user-friendly platform for booking personalized transfers, ensuring convenience and affordability. Enhance your travel experience with LocalsRide.com today!