Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Friday announced that the state government will establish fast-track courts in major cities of the state, such as Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur and Gwalior, to hear cases related to the education and employment of young people. The announcement follows Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's recent commitment to introduce specialised courts for such cases at the national level.

Addressing a public gathering in Panna district, CM Dr Yadav said India, under PM Modi's leadership, is moving forward with the ideals of its cultural heritage and the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The Earth is one family), while working for global welfare.

"Our culture teaches us to work for the welfare of all and uphold humanity. In line with the Prime Minister's announcement, Madhya Pradesh will also establish fast-track courts in its four major cities to ensure quicker resolution of youth-related education and employment matters," the Chief Minister said.

Development projects worth ₹184.83 crore inaugurated

During his visit, CM Dr Yadav inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth ₹184.83 crore. He also transferred more than ₹210 crore to the bank accounts of over 3.5 million pension beneficiaries through a single-click digital transfer.

Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister offered prayers at the Shri Jugal Kishore Temple, seeking prosperity and well-being for the people of the state.

He also announced that the Panna Medical College would be inaugurated next year, creating fresh opportunities for NEET-qualified students to pursue medical education in the region.

Ken-Betwa project to transform Bundelkhand

Highlighting the state's development agenda, the state’s top political leader said the ₹1 lakh crore Ken-Betwa river linking project, conceived under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision, would transform Bundelkhand's agricultural landscape.

He said the Union Government had approved funding for 90 per cent of the project's cost and assured that people whose land, homes or commercial establishments are affected would receive appropriate compensation.

Claiming the project would end the region's long-standing water scarcity, the Chief Minister urged farmers not to sell their land, expressing confidence that Bundelkhand would eventually surpass Punjab and Haryana in agricultural prosperity.

Glass viewpoint to boost tourism

CM Dr Yadav also inaugurated a glass-floor viewpoint and other beautification works at Brihaspati Kund, developed at a cost of ₹8 crore. He said the attraction would draw visitors from across India and abroad, positioning Panna as a major tourism destination.

The development package also includes two Sandipani schools worth ₹74 crore in Gunnor and Pawai. Describing them as among the country's finest educational institutions, the Chief Minister said they would provide students with quality education rooted in Indian values.

Employment, investment and police recruitment

The Chief Minister said the state had approved 10,000 new posts in the police department, following the recruitment of 8,000 personnel last year. He added that more than one lakh government employment opportunities have been created across Madhya Pradesh.

He also encouraged farmers to supplement their income through dairy farming and fisheries, while noting that the state aims to increase milk production from 12% to 20%. He said investment worth thousands of crores is flowing into Panna and that industrial activity across Bundelkhand is gaining momentum, with the expansion of the Bina refinery serving as a key example.

Remarks on Uniform Civil Code

Speaking on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), CM Dr Yadav said the state Cabinet had approved the relevant Bill and that it has already been passed by the Legislative Assembly.

He stated that once implemented, the UCC would establish a common legal framework for all citizens irrespective of religion. Referring to marriage and divorce laws, he said divorce proceedings would be routed through the courts, adding that the reform would provide relief to Muslim women in divorce-related matters.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government remains committed to the welfare of farmers, women, youth and economically weaker sections through welfare schemes, scholarships and financial assistance.

Key announcements made on the occasion

Among the major announcements, CM Dr Yadav said:

• Facilities at the Jugal Kishore Temple will be upgraded.

• Maharaja Chhatrasal Stadium will be developed into a fully equipped sports complex.

• A new college will be established in Brijpur.

• New road and bridge construction projects will also be undertaken in the district.