Bhopal. Guides at tourist sites serve as ‘Monument Gurus’ for visitors. The amount of knowledge a tourist gains is directly linked to the information provided by the guide. Therefore, it is essential that guides offer authentic and well-researched information. This was emphasized by Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director of the Tourism Board, Shiv Shekhar Shukla, while addressing a guide orientation and skill development workshop at RCVP Noronha Academy of Administration.
Encouraging the guides, Mr. Shukla announced that under the Tourist Guide Rating System (RGTS), the top three guides will be awarded cash prizes of ₹2 lakh, ₹1 lakh, and ₹50,000 respectively, starting next year.
He advised guides to learn multiple languages and maintain courteous behavior for the convenience of tourists. As influencers, they should also encourage tourists to maintain cleanliness. Along with providing information about tourist sites, guides should also share details about the state’s achievements and specialties, and inform visitors about nearby attractions. This will increase tourist interest in Madhya Pradesh and encourage repeat visits. Every guide should act as a caretaker for tourists, ensuring they have a pleasant and memorable experience.
Mr. Shukla added that the number of guides will be increased in the future, along with enhancements in the facilities provided to them. Technology-based workshops and online sessions will also be conducted to further sharpen their skills.
Guides Bridge Tourists and Culture
Additional Managing Director of the Tourism Board, Bidisha Mukherjee, noted that guides act as a bridge between the tourism department and tourists. They share the proud history of the state and country with visitors. Through their skills, tourists gain knowledge of our rich traditions and culture. Currently, 72 guides are serving in Madhya Pradesh, and recruitment for 313 new positions will begin soon. Ms. Mukherjee stated that future workshops will continue to enhance guide competencies, including language proficiency and technical know-how.
Guides Represent Local Culture
Regional Director of the Archaeological Survey of India, Mr. Bhuvan Vikram Singh, remarked that guides represent local culture and serve as mentors to tourists, making their journey unforgettable. They help introduce Indian culture to travelers from around the world.
It is noteworthy that a two-day residential workshop is being organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board to enhance the training, efficiency, and practical skills of licensed state-level and local guides. The initiative is being conducted in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India, the State Archaeology Museum and Archives in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, IITTM Gwalior, and subject experts.
During the workshop, experts will deliver sessions on the historical background of tourist sites, presentation skills, emerging technologies, communication styles with tourists, and tourism-related government schemes and programs. On the opening day, awards were presented under the RGTS to top-performing guides: Shashi Bhushan Singh (first) from Orchha, Surendra Singh Bhadoria (second) from Sanchi, and Rajesh Awasthi (third) from Khajuraho. Also present was Manoj Kurmi, Superintending Archaeologist of the ASI Bhopal division.
Heritage Walk Through Historic Landmarks
A Heritage Walk will also be held at 7 AM on Tuesday, July 1, from Kamla Park to Sadar Manzil, offering guides the opportunity to explore historic sites and gain a practical understanding of their heritage, cultural significance, and local legends. This workshop aims to foster innovation in the knowledge and skills of guides, enabling them to provide more engaging, factual, and impactful information to tourists.