Interview/ Mohan Yadav, chief minister, Madhya Pradesh
Q/ Are you satisfied with the outcome of the Global Investors Summit (GIS) in Bhopal?
A/ Absolutely. GIS 2025 surpassed expectations in investment commitments, participation, and policy impact. With nine partner countries, and delegations from over 60 nations, we secured investment commitments of Rs30.77 lakh crore, creating 21.4 lakh employment opportunities. Ninety memoranda of understanding [MoUs] were signed. More than 5,000 B2B [business-to-business] meetings, and over 600 B2G [business-to-government] meetings, were held. We introduced 18 new policies, including the Industrial Promotion Policy 2025, Logistics Policy, Export Policy, MSME [micro, small, and medium enterprises] Policy, and Startup Policy. This summit is a step in the right direction.
Q/ What is your roadmap to ensure implementation?
A/ Our top priority is turning MoUs into real investments. We have a rigorous multi-level screening and monitoring system to assess feasibility and economic impact. The cabinet committee on investment promotion plays a key role in approving high-impact projects aligned with our industrial vision. Our 18 new policies provide structured incentives, streamlined approvals, and sector-specific frameworks. We are focused on practical, sustainable investments that generate employment and economic growth. Proactive follow-ups and investor-centric policies will ensure that commitments materialise into tangible projects and job creations.
Q/ MP has improved its ease of doing business rankings. How will this boost investment? What are your five priority sectors?
A/ MP has implemented major reforms in land acquisition, labour laws, tax compliance, and digital governance, creating a stable and transparent business environment. Our priority sectors include renewable energy, where MP is emerging as India’s green energy hub; IT and emerging technologies, with policies attracting global tech giants; MSMEs and startups, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship; tourism, driven by projects like the Mahakal Lok Corridor; and urban infrastructure, with transformative developments like the Indore-Ujjain-Dewas-Dhar metropolitan region. With investor-friendly policies, we are confident that these sectors will drive MP’s $305 billion GDP vision by 2028-29.
Q/ During the elections, the BJP’s welfare schemes for women served as a model for similar promises in other states. How do you respond to concerns that such schemes, often labelled as freebies, could place a significant financial burden on the economy?
A/ Calling Ladli Behna Yojana a freebie misses its real intent―women’s empowerment. The scheme provides direct financial assistance to 1.29 crore women, enhancing their financial independence and decision-making power. The government has ensured its sustainability without burdening the economy. Impact assessment shows women are actively engaging in banking, saving, and they are even starting small businesses. Beyond financial aid, the scheme fosters confidence and social upliftment, making it a transformative step toward self-reliance.
Q/ The development of the Mahakal Lok Corridor has led to a significant increase in footfall. What has been the impact on local businesses?
A/ The development of the Mahakal Lok Corridor has transformed Ujjain’s economy, with annual footfall surging from one crore to five crore visitors. This has led to a significant boost in the hospitality sector, with hotel occupancy rising by 70-80 per cent and room tariffs increasing by 30-50 per cent. Restaurants, food stalls and prasad shops have witnessed a business growth of 300 per cent. Retail, transport, and real estate have also flourished. Temple revenues have tripled, enabling reinvestment in infrastructure.
Q/ Simhastha Kumbh 2028 is a major event. How are you preparing for it?
A/ Simhastha Kumbh is expected to welcome 150 to 200 million devotees. We are implementing AI-driven crowd management and drone surveys. A Rs2,312 crore road project is set to enhance connectivity between Ujjain and Indore. Railway coordination cell and special routes will be developed to regulate traffic flow and prevent congestion during peak hours.
Q/ What initiatives have been undertaken to promote MP’s cultural heritage?
A/ MP is the cultural heart of India, and we are committed to preserving and globally showcasing its rich heritage. With 14 UNESCO-recognised sites, we are actively pursuing Orchha’s nomination and UNESCO status for Narmada Parikrama. Our focus on tribal heritage includes Gond art and the Bhagoria festival. Through the Responsible Souvenir Programme, we are empowering artisans and promoting sustainable tourism. These efforts position MP as a global centre for cultural excellence.
Q/ Will Bhopal be the permanent venue for GIS? Do you plan to develop a dedicated convention centre?
A/ Shifting GIS to Bhopal was a strategic decision to ensure balanced development across MP. While Indore has hosted major events, GIS 2025 proved Bhopal’s capability for global engagements. Our vision is to uplift all regions―including Gwalior, Jabalpur, Rewa, and Satna―as emerging industrial hubs. Recognising the scale of such events, we are committed to developing world-class exhibition and convention centres in key cities to position MP as a premier investment destination.
Q/ As you move forward, what key issues do you aim to address?
A/ My vision is to transform MP into a powerhouse of development, competing with leading states. We are strengthening ease of doing business, expanding industrial corridors, expressways, and airports, and boosting IT, MSMEs, and startups. Our focus is also on top-tier education, health care and leadership in renewable energy. Advancing smart cities, rural development and social welfare are integral to our growth strategy. MP is rising, and our time has come.