Safari is passe, ‘Tiger State’ now turns its gaze skyward with Astro Villages

Indore: Known globally as the ‘Tiger State of India' for the big cats that inhabit its protected green reserves, Madhya Pradesh is in line to soon emerge as a magnet for visitors from near and far for reasons other than forest safari. The state is now turning its attention from forest safaris by day to stargazing by night.In a major step to institutionalise night tourism, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) has identified 15 villages across 12 districts to be developed as dedicated Astro Villages. The initiative aims at expanding tourism beyond wildlife and heritage by introducing structured astro tourism experiences in rural regions with naturally dark skies. Officials said the programme aims to blend night-sky exploration with community-based tourism, creating fresh livelihood opportunities while extending tourist activity beyond daylight hours.The identified villages include Kera Pipra Tola, Mukki Lagma, and Chimitpur Bijadhana in Balaghat district; Dhusawani and Kajra in Chhindwara; Bajjarwada Bancha in Betul; Barelipar Kohaka in Seoni; Chedka Dhaba in Narmadapuram; Ranchha Dobha in Umariya; Madha in Singrauli; Umargohan in Anuppur; Chuagaan in Mandla; Manor in Panna; Gyanpura in Dhar; and Richkudi in Damoh. Tourism officials said the selected locations were chosen for low light pollution and their proximity to existing tourism infrastructure. Many of the villages are located near homestays and Madhya Pradesh Tourism properties, allowing tourists to stay overnight and participate in guided stargazing and astro-based activities. Ilayaraja T, managing director, MPTB, said the initiative is expected to add an economic dimension to rural tourism. "While wildlife tourism gave Madhya Pradesh a global recognition as the Tiger State, the Astro Village programme allows us to deepen engagement with rural communities. It will encourage longer tourist stays and generate income through homestays, local guides, and village-level services," Ilayaraja said, adding that the initiative is particularly relevant for forest buffer areas and remote regions where tourism activity traditionally ends after sunset. According to the project framework, implementation will begin with baseline surveys, followed by the preparation of detailed project reports with defined timelines. Local youth will be identified and trained in astro-related activities, including stargazing and astro photography. The programme also includes procurement of necessary equipment, development of basic infrastructure at the village level, marketing through IEC activities and social media promotion, and continuous handholding support to ensure smooth implementation.DP Singh, director (Skill), MPTB, said the project is structured to ensure long-term sustainability. "After capacity building and orientation, the activity will be handed over to village tourism committees so that local communities can operate and manage it independently," Singh told TOI. Tourism officials said the Astro Village initiative is expected to strengthen rural tourism, diversify the state's tourism offerings, and position Madhya Pradesh as a destination where exploration continues long after dark.