By Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister, Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is today entering its 70th year of existence. Since its formation on November 1, 1956, the state has embarked on a new journey of development, particularly over the last two decades, elevating it toward the potential of becoming a leading state in the nation. It is a fortunate convergence that we celebrate our Rajyotsav on the sacred day of Dev Uthani Ekadashi. Our festivals, traditions, and cultural contexts are the foundation that inspires us to move from the ancient to the contemporary, generating the momentum needed for future growth.
It is a profound source of pride that Madhya Pradesh, the ‘Heart of India,’ is richly endowed with forests, water, agriculture, minerals, art, culture, and traditions. We are blessed by the presence of the holy Narmada, Chambal, and Shipra rivers, and the divine grace of Baba Mahakal. This land is sanctified as the birthplace of Lord Parashuram, the education center of Lord Shri Krishna, and the place of meditation for Adi Shankaracharya. It is also the birthplace of historical emperors like Raja Nal, Bhartruhari, and Vikramaditya, the latter of whom liberated India from the terror of the Shakas. The world’s first scientific calendar, the “Vikram Samvat,” originated right here in Ujjain.
Linking Heritage to Prosperity: The Developed India Mandate
We are now advancing from our glorious heritage towards development, driven by our natural and historical magnificence. Our esteemed Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has articulated the vision of a ‘Developed India’ (Viksit Bharat)—a resolve that is guiding our nation toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy. To realize this national ambition, Madhya Pradesh is making continuous and concerted efforts. We have designated this year as the ‘Industry Year’ and centered our Rajyotsav theme on ‘Industry and Employment,’ symbolizing our dedication to sustainable growth, cultural enrichment, and public participation.
Inspired by the Prime Minister’s vision, we are translating our intentions into concrete results in investment and industrial expansion. Acknowledging the unique capacity and skill set of every region in our diverse state, we pioneered the concept of Regional Investors’ Summits. This initiative began in Ujjain in March 2024 and was successfully expanded to Jabalpur, Gwalior, Rewa, and global centers including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, the UK, Germany, Japan, and Dubai. These national and international roadshows have substantially augmented investment into Madhya Pradesh.
We are committed to providing a competent, simplified, and secure ecosystem for investors. Furthermore, by establishing Innovation Hubs, a robust Startup Policy, funding support, and an Incubation Network, we are playing a vital role in accelerating India’s startup revolution. Our dedication to fostering industrial investment has yielded historic achievements, demonstrated by the overwhelming response from domestic and international investors at the Global Investors Summit. Notably, the recent Mineral Conclave secured investment proposals exceeding Rs 56,000 crore, reflecting the effectiveness of our progressive mineral policy and streamlined administration.
The Four Pillars of Empowerment: G.Y.A.N. Mission
Madhya Pradesh is undergoing a profound period of transformation, built on the cornerstones of Investment, Innovation, and Employment. In line with Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Gyan’ mantra—honoring the Garib (Poor), Yuva (Youth), Annadata (Farmer), and Nari (Woman)—our development strategy is focused on these four pillars of welfare.
= Youth Power and Employment: Job creation is our utmost priority. The Madhya Pradesh Skill Development Mission and the Startup Policy 2025 are successfully transforming job seekers into job creators. We are the first state to release a government recruitment calendar, with the process already underway.
= Farmer Prosperity: We are initiating an agricultural revolution focused on innovation, including drone-based crop inspection and smart irrigation. Our collective efforts, including the ambitious Ken-Betwa and Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal link projects, have increased the irrigated area to over 52 lakh hectares. We aim to double this figure to 100 lakh hectares in the next three years.
= Women’s Dignity and Empowerment: The Nari Shakti Mission is proving transformative. Schemes like the Ladli Behna Yojana provide crucial economic security, while the Women Entrepreneurship Policy offers opportunities in cottage industries, dairy, and services, fundamentally strengthening the base of New India.
= Poor Welfare and Social Security: Through the Garib Kalyan Mission, we are ensuring social security, housing, education, and health facilities, working tirelessly to bring a genuine smile to the face of the poorest citizen.
We are immensely pleased that, with the guidance of the Prime Minister and the unwavering support of the people, we have successfully implemented these welfare policies. The glorious journey of Madhya Pradesh continues under the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas. Our resolve and goal are one: the happiness of the poor, the prosperity of the farmer, the dignity of women, and the bright future of the youth.
Let us all work together to build a self-reliant Madhya Pradesh and contribute meaningfully to the making of a Developed India.
Hearty wishes to all residents of the state on the 70th Foundation Day of Madhya Pradesh.
