Madhya Pradesh opens a new chapter in military tourism with Rs 10 crore upgrade of BSF academy and digital war museum
BHOPAL: Ordinary citizens will soon be able to experience, at close quarters, the unflinching courage, gruelling training and modern defence technology of the guardians of India’s borders. Madhya Pradesh, famed the world over for its historic heritage and vibrant wildlife tourism, is now set to emerge on the national map as a major military tourism destination. During the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart 2026 (MPTM), a landmark tripartite agreement was signed for an unprecedented upgrade of military tourism at the prestigious Border Security Force (BSF) Academy at Tekanpur, near Gwalior.
Modelled on Nadabet Seema Darshan in Gujarat and the Longewala War Memorial in Rajasthan, the project has been granted a sanction of Rs 9.99 crore (roughly Rs 10 crore) by the state government. The main aim of this unique initiative is to bring members of the public, particularly young people, face to face with the valour of the Indian Army and paramilitary forces, the historic struggles they have fought and the supreme sacrifices they have made in defending the nation.
To bring this far-sighted project to fruition, the BSF Academy Tekanpur, the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) and the Gwalior district administration have joined forces. The official documents were signed by DIG Harinder Singh Tomar for the BSF, and by senior official Ritesh Thakur on behalf of the tourism department and district administration.
In the first phase of the project, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department will bear the entire financial and administrative responsibility for developing the tourism infrastructure and digital works from its capital expenditure. Once construction and public amenities are fully in place, and in keeping with strict security standards, the internal management and operation of the entire complex, along with control of the guidelines, will be handed over to the BSF Academy itself.
The main attraction of the Tekanpur project is the complete modernisation of the existing BSF Museum, which will be transformed into a world-class international military museum. According to the Tourism Department’s official plan, the new museum will feature state-of-the-art digital infrastructure, 3D technology, immersive galleries based on virtual reality (VR) and automated audio-visual guides.
Visitors will have the chance to see, brought vividly to life, the BSF’s gallant role in the historic India–Pakistan wars, the challenges of patrolling in harsh conditions along the borders, and the untold tales of valour of the brave martyrs. In addition, the complex will host grand exhibitions of ancient and modern weapons, destroyed enemy tanks and specialised military equipment.
The most thrilling experience for tourists visiting Tekanpur will be getting a close look at the country’s first dedicated “Drone Warfare School”. To tackle the challenges posed by contemporary global conflicts (such as the Russia–Ukraine war and the Israel–Hamas conflict) and by modern cross-border drone incursions, the BSF has established this school at the academy itself.
Visitors will learn about the working of this highly secretive, cutting-edge institution, as well as anti-drone technology, UAV operations and indigenous technologies such as the “Chaukasi Drone”. In addition, the academy’s renowned National Dog Training Centre and the stunts and technical feats of the BSF’s world-famous “Jabaz” and “Seema Bhawani” motorcycle teams may be showcased in special tourism sessions.
Because military installations have strict security protocols, public access here has so far been very limited or restricted. Following this agreement, however, extensive infrastructure is being developed to make the experience pleasant and convenient for ordinary visitors. Under the first phase of development, world-class public amenities will be built at Tekanpur, including a state-of-the-art information and help centre, a high-quality cafeteria, comfortable seating lounges, and safe, clean washrooms. Work has also begun on a dedicated transport link and a well-organised entry-pass system to connect tourists arriving in Gwalior directly to the Tekanpur academy.
Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said that the state government is putting Madhya Pradesh on the global tourism map through transparent policies, swift single-window clearances and heavy investment. After Ujjain’s Mahakal Lok, Omkareshwar and Khajuraho, this part of the Gwalior division will now be recognised as a major global hub of military tourism. The government believes the project will not only give a tremendous boost to local employment, hotels, guides and the transport industry, but will also be a powerful means of inspiring future generations and young people to join the armed forces and serve the nation.
Gwalior District Collector Ruchika Chauhan added that, once the project is complete, tourism in the Gwalior region will gain fresh momentum, and the Tekanpur BSF Museum will develop into a leading tourist destination, not just for the state but for the country.
Historic tripartite agreement: A major military tourism pact between the BSF Academy Tekanpur, MPSTDC and the Gwalior district administration.
₹10 crore budget: The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department will incur capital expenditure of ₹9.99 crore on first-phase construction work.
Official approval: Given by DIG Harinder Singh Tomar on behalf of the BSF, and by Ritesh Thakur on behalf of the tourism department and administration.
Main attractions: An international digital BSF Museum, 3D immersive galleries, India’s first Drone Warfare School and a state-of-the-art tourist cafeteria.
