Rohan Umak
MP CM Ujjain: In a major infrastructural and cultural boost, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Tuesday unveiled development projects worth over ₹664 crore in Ujjain, positioning the city for rapid transformation ahead of the upcoming Simhastha 2028.
Addressing a gathering, the Chief Minister described the scale of development as “unprecedented”, emphasising that the initiatives would significantly enhance connectivity, urban infrastructure, and religious tourism in the region.
Mega Connectivity Projects to Boost Ujjain
Highlighting key infrastructure upgrades, Dr Yadav said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already gifted Ujjain a major eight-lane super expressway connecting Badnawar. Additionally, a direct route to Delhi via the Garoth highway near Dewas-Indore has been facilitated.
He further noted that a massive National Highway project, estimated at ₹3,839 crore, will link Dwarka in Gujarat to Assam along the China border, directly connecting the sacred sites of Somnath and Mahakal in Ujjain. The project has already received approval from the Union Cabinet.
Geeta Bhavan to Rise as Cultural Landmark
A key highlight of the announcement was the foundation-laying ceremony for a grand Geeta Bhavan in Ujjain, to be constructed at a cost exceeding ₹77 crore. The project follows similar developments in Indore and Jabalpur, aiming to create a network of cultural hubs across Madhya Pradesh.
The Geeta Bhavan is envisioned as a centre for promoting Indian philosophy, literature, and social engagement, offering a platform for youth, researchers, and citizens to connect with traditional knowledge systems.
Massive Investment for Simhastha Preparations
Dr Yadav also revealed that ₹3,600 crore has been earmarked for future development works in the 2026–27 fiscal year, specifically aligned with preparations for Simhastha. Ongoing works worth over ₹13.5 crore are already underway.
The ₹664 crore package includes new roads, railway overbridges, road widening projects, and cement concrete roads aimed at improving urban mobility and infrastructure.
Focus on Farmers, Welfare and Education
Declaring 2026 as the ‘Farmer Welfare Year’, the Chief Minister highlighted significant strides in agriculture and allied sectors. Milk production has reportedly increased by 25 per cent over the past year, benefitting farmers with an additional ₹5–₹8 per litre.
He also outlined welfare initiatives, including free bicycles, uniforms, and textbooks for schoolchildren, along with scooters for toppers and laptops for meritorious students. A new scheme named after Mata Yashoda will provide free milk packets to students in schools.
Governor Hails Cultural Renaissance
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Mangubhai Patel termed the projects a “conch-blast of cultural resurgence”. He said the Geeta Bhavan initiative would help instil values and promote India’s rich philosophical traditions among future generations.
The Governor added that these urban development schemes would elevate religious tourism, boost local trade, and strengthen the regional economy, reflecting the spirit of inclusive growth championed by the Central government.
