Madhya Pradesh is moving forward with new avenues of development. The state has set an ambitious target to increase per capita income from the current ₹1.55 lakh to ₹22.50 lakh over the next 25 years. In line with this, a long-term roadmap has been prepared to transform Madhya Pradesh into a $1 trillion economy.
During the Abhyuday Industry Leadership Conclave 2026 held at Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav spoke to senior journalist Prafull Ketkar about the state’s industrial progress. He emphasized that micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of Madhya Pradesh’s industrial development. The state government is promoting industry not only in major cities but also in smaller towns through 18 new industrial policies. Rapid investment opportunities are emerging in sectors such as mining in Katni and Shahdol, electrical equipment manufacturing in Babai-Mohasa (Narmadapuram), and tourism.
The government aims to make the youth job providers rather than job seekers. Various self-employment schemes and startup promotion programs have been launched for this purpose. Religious tourism and homestay initiatives are also generating new income opportunities in rural areas. The Chief Minister highlighted that the state’s unemployment rate has now dropped to around 1–1.5%.
To increase farmers’ income, the state government is prioritizing agricultural production alongside food processing and animal husbandry. The target is to raise milk production from 9% to 20%. In the past 18 months, the irrigated area has expanded by 7.5 lakh hectares, with a long-term goal of reaching 1 crore hectares. The flow of water from the Narmada River to the Kshipra River has provided significant benefits to farmers in the Malwa region.
Madhya Pradesh has now become the third-largest state in renewable energy production in India. A joint solar energy project with Uttar Pradesh is being established in Morena, providing electricity to both states on a six-month rotational basis. The pump storage project at Gandhi Sagar Dam (Mandsaur) has also been rapidly developed. Farmers are being provided solar pumps to promote energy self-reliance.
Budget and Urban Development Strategy:
The government has set a goal to double the state budget over the next five years. The upcoming budget has been described as a roadmap for comprehensive development. Metropolitan areas are being developed in Indore and Bhopal to ensure that industrialization and urbanization progress together.
Special Emphasis on Youth Skill Development:
Following the implementation of the New Education Policy 2020, the state is giving priority to skill development and technical education. IT centers are being established in engineering colleges to equip the youth with skills in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, preparing them to meet future challenges.
FAQs:
1. What is the per capita income target of Madhya Pradesh?
The state aims to increase per capita income to ₹22.50 lakh over the next 25 years.
2. What role do MSMEs play in Madhya Pradesh Development?
MSMEs are the backbone of industrial growth and are central to the $1 trillion economy vision.
3. How is the state promoting renewable energy?
Through solar projects in Morena and pump storage at Gandhi Sagar Dam, along with solar pumps for farmers.
4. What steps are being taken for farmers?
Expansion of irrigated land, increased milk production targets, and river interlinking projects support farmers.
5. How is youth employment being addressed?
Startup schemes, skill development programs, and IT centers under NEP 2020 are preparing youth to become job creators.
