Madhya pradesh cabinet approves biotechnology park, state data centre 3.0, scooter scheme extension

Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved a series of major initiatives aimed at accelerating the state's progress in science, technology, digital governance, education, and innovation. Among the key decisions are the establishment of the Madhya Pradesh Biotechnology Park, approval of the State Data Centre (SDC) 3.0 project, extension of the Chief Minister Scooter Scheme until 2031, and the implementation of the Food Grain Disposal Policy 2026. These initiatives are expected to strengthen research, promote startups, enhance digital public services, support meritorious students, and improve agricultural management across the state.

Biotechnology Park to Boost Startups, Innovation, and Research:

The Cabinet has approved the establishment of the Madhya Pradesh Biotechnology Park, which will be developed under the Government of India's National Biotechnology Park Scheme implemented by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).

The park aims to position Madhya Pradesh as a hub for biotechnology research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrial development. It will provide advanced infrastructure and support services to biotechnology startups, researchers, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), helping them accelerate research and commercialize innovative technologies.

Key Benefits of the Biotechnology Park:

• Incubation facilities for biotechnology startups. 
• Technical and research support for innovators and entrepreneurs. 
• Assistance to MSMEs in research, product development, and business expansion. 
• Promotion of biotechnology-based industries and employment opportunities across the state. 
• ₹800 Crore Approved for State Data Centre 3.0

The Cabinet has sanctioned ₹800 crore for the expansion and modernization of the Madhya Pradesh State Data Centre (MPSDC) 3.0) to strengthen the state's digital infrastructure and support future e-governance initiatives.

The project will significantly enhance data processing capacity while modernizing critical IT infrastructure to meet the growing demand for digital government services.

Highlights of the Project:

• Expansion and modernization of IT infrastructure. 
• Strengthening of Disaster Recovery (DR) systems. 
• Upgradation of cybersecurity architecture. 
• Increased storage, networking, and data processing capacity. 
• Development of advanced digital platforms to support e-governance services. 

The government believes the upgraded data centre will improve the security, reliability, and efficiency of online public services while supporting the state's rapidly expanding digital ecosystem.

Chief Minister Scooter Scheme Extended Until 2031:

The Cabinet has also approved the continuation of the Chief Minister Scooter Scheme from FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31, with a financial allocation of ₹495 crore. The scheme aims to encourage academic excellence by providing mobility support to meritorious students pursuing higher education.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Regular students enrolled in government higher secondary schools under the School Education Department and Tribal Affairs Department. 
• Students securing at least 70% marks in their first attempt. 
• Boys and girls who secure first position in their respective schools. 
• The government expects the scheme to motivate students toward higher education while making transportation more accessible for deserving beneficiaries.
• Food Grain Disposal Policy 2026 Approved
• The Cabinet has also approved the Madhya Pradesh Wheat, Gram, Sorghum, and Pearl Millet Disposal Policy 2026. The policy is designed to make the sale of government-procured food grains more transparent, competitive, and efficient, ensuring better value realization while streamlining the disposal process.

FAQs:

1. What are the major Madhya Pradesh Cabinet decisions?

The Madhya Pradesh Cabinet approved the Biotechnology Park, State Data Centre 3.0, Chief Minister Scooter Scheme extension, and Food Grain Disposal Policy 2026.

2. What is the purpose of the Madhya Pradesh Biotechnology Park?

The Madhya Pradesh Biotechnology Park will support biotechnology startups, research institutions, innovators, and MSMEs with advanced infrastructure and incubation facilities.

3. How much funding has been approved for State Data Centre 3.0?

The Cabinet has sanctioned ₹800 crore for the modernization and expansion of the State Data Centre 3.0 project.

4. Who is eligible for the Chief Minister Scooter Scheme?

Students studying in eligible government higher secondary schools who secure at least 70% marks in their first attempt and school toppers are eligible under the scheme.

5. What is the Food Grain Disposal Policy 2026?

The Food Grain Disposal Policy 2026 aims to ensure transparent and efficient disposal of government-procured wheat, gram, sorghum, and pearl millet while improving agricultural management.