Accessibility Project Underway in Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha
By Mewati Sitaram
On the occasion of World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh is not only celebrating its rich cultural legacy but also taking significant strides to make it more inclusive. In a landmark move, the state government has launched a dedicated initiative to enhance accessibility across four major heritage sites — Maheshwar, Mandu, Dhar, and Orchha.
The project, spearheaded by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board under the ‘Accessibility Infrastructure and Development’ scheme, aims to open up the state’s iconic monuments to all visitors, including persons with disabilities. Plans include the installation of ramps, Braille signage, accessible washrooms, tactile pathways, and other inclusive infrastructure to ensure that the state’s historical marvels can be experienced by everyone.
“Under the guidance of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav and the leadership of Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts & Endowments (Independent Charge) Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, we are working to have more of Madhya Pradesh’s iconic locations added to the UNESCO World Heritage list,” said Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board. “This initiative is a step towards enabling every individual, regardless of physical ability, to engage with the timeless beauty of our heritage.”
The Chausath Yogini temple is in Mitaoli village, also spelled Mitawali. This temple was built by the Kachchhapaghata king Devapala r.c. 1055 – 1075.
Madhya Pradesh is actively preserving its centuries-old heritage while making it more accessible to a wider, diverse audience through inclusive tourism initiatives. By implementing features like ramps, Braille signage, and wheelchair-friendly pathways at key heritage sites, the state ensures that its cultural treasures can be experienced by all, including persons with disabilities. These efforts not only safeguard historical monuments but also reflect a commitment to equitable tourism. In doing so, Madhya Pradesh reinforces its identity as the cultural heart of India, where history is preserved, celebrated, and shared by everyone.
The detailed development plan is finalized, with financial backing proposed under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Once completed, the initiative is expected to bolster Madhya Pradesh’s standing as a leading destination for inclusive tourism in India.
Madhya Pradesh is preserving its rich heritage while making it accessible to a wider, more diverse audience through inclusive tourism efforts. By adding features like ramps, Braille signage, and wheelchair-friendly pathways at key sites, the state is ensuring that its cultural landmarks can be experienced by all, including persons with disabilities. These initiatives reflect a commitment to equitable tourism and strengthen Madhya Pradesh’s identity as the cultural heart of India—where history is not only protected but shared by everyone.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
