Maharashtra unveils Maharashtra Convention Bureau (MCB)

India’s first state-led MICE initiative aims to position the country as a leading global destination for business events.

The Maharashtra Government’s Department of Tourism announced the formation of the Maharashtra Convention Bureau (MCB), said to be India’s first state-led initiative focused on cementing the state’s position as a compelling destination for global conventions, exhibitions, and business events.

The Bureau was introduced at IMEX Frankfurt. Based out of India’s financial capital Mumbai, MCB aims to serve as a catalyst to attract and facilitate international events, building upon the state’s reputation as a business and tourism hotspot. This initiative to boost the key focus of the Maharashtra Tourism Policy 2024, highlighting the growing importance of MICE tourism, and aims to accelerate the growing visitor economy across the state.

During the announcement, present were Indranil Naik, Minister of State (Tourism, Industries, Public Works, Higher & Technical Education, Tribal Development, Soil & Water Conservation), alongside Atul Patne, IAS, Principal Secretary (Tourism) and Santosh Rokade, Deputy Secretary from the Department of Tourism, Maharashtra Government as well as Dr. B.N. Patil, IAS, Director, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra.

The formation of MCB is said to be a strategic step towards expanding the country’s intellectual capital by drawing delegates, professionals and experts from around the world to promote knowledge-sharing, innovation, and industry collaboration. The formation of MCB is a step in this direction – leveraging world-class infrastructure, a thriving economy, and a robust service ecosystem to establish the state as a top destination for high-impact international events.

Cities like the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur – will be at the core of this movement, creating a network of interconnected locations offering a diverse mix of venues, accommodation, and seamless transportation, equipped to support events of every scale.

"The establishment of the Maharashtra Convention Bureau marks a transformative moment for our state’s economic and cultural landscape. Maharashtra has long been a leader in industry, education, and innovation—and with this new bureau, we are unlocking the full potential of the business events industry to amplify that leadership on a global stage. Through strategic investment in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), we are creating a powerful platform for innovation, collaboration, and intellectual exchange."

"This initiative will serve as a catalyst across key sectors—from tourism and hospitality to higher education, manufacturing, and infrastructure. It will attract global thinkers, investors, and changemakers to Maharashtra, generating new opportunities for our youth, our entrepreneurs, and our communities. As Minister of State, I am proud to support this visionary step forward that will elevate Maharashtra as a premier destination not just for business, but for bold ideas and inclusive growth." — shared Indranil Naik.

MCB will work towards promoting the State for business tourism by working closely with international event organisers, offering administrative assistance, and providing resources to ensure the success and impact of events. Additionally, the Bureau will collaborate with key stakeholders, including hotels, venues, and service providers to ease the planning process and enhance the overall experience.

“The establishment of the Maharashtra Convention Bureau is a watershed moment for our nation, state and Mumbai city’s global aspirations. This initiative reflects the growing importance of business tourism in our economic landscape and reinforces our commitment to promoting Maharashtra as a premier destination for international conventions. We are proud that the Jio World Convention Centre is leading the way with hosting truly world-class events, and we are excited to bring the world to Maharashtra and Mumbai – The Gateway to India,” said Atul Patne.

Underlining the immense potential for MICE events in India, Dr. Senthil Gopinath - CEO International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), said “The establishment of the Maharashtra Convention Bureau is a transformative milestone, not only for Maharashtra but for India’s entire MICE industry. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to leveraging its world-class infrastructure, thriving economy, and diverse destinations to attract global conventions. By creating a dedicated bureau, Maharashtra is setting a benchmark for other states to follow, fostering a culture of knowledge exchange, collaboration, and economic growth through international events. As ICCA, we are excited to see Mumbai and Maharashtra take their rightful place on the global MICE map”.