MP Emerges as New Growth Engine of Tourism and Employment: CM Dr. Yadav

Embracing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s enduring vision of “development along with heritage,” Madhya Pradesh is moving decisively on a historic path to preserve and strengthen its cultural identity. The cultural renaissance initiated by Prime Minister with the inauguration of Shri Mahakal Lok in Ujjain has, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, taken the form of a large public movement. Across the sacred land of the state, 20 religious and cultural ‘Loks’ are being developed at a cost exceeding Rs 900 crore. These projects will stand as living testimony to the state’s rich traditions for generations to come.

As part of this continuing journey of religious and cultural enrichment, work is progressing rapidly on 17 major religious and cultural Loks at a cost of more than Rs 580 crore. In Sagar, Sant Ravidas Lok is being developed at a cost of Rs 101 crore as a symbol of social harmony. Landmark projects such as Devi Lok at Salkanpur in Sehore district and Shri Ram Raja Lok at Orchha are nearing completion. Reflecting the government’s firm resolve, the Bhagwan Pashupatinath Lok complex in Mandsaur has already been completed and dedicated to public. Similarly, projects including Veer Shiromani Maharana Pratap Lok in Bhopal, Bhagwan Parshuram Lok at Janapav and the Devi Ahilya Museum in Maheshwar have been completed, further enriching the cultural landscape of Madhya Pradesh.

Respecting public faith and tradition, the state government has also envisioned development of three new Loks and the second phase of two existing Loks at a cost of more than Rs 315 crore. Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of Shri Mahakal Lok, proposals include construction of Mamleshwar Lok at Omkareshwar, Tapti Lok at the Tapti river origin site in Betul, and Maa Sharda Lok at Maihar. In Maheshwar, Devi Ahilya Lok is being developed at a cost of Rs 110 crore, while the second phase of Maa Narmada Lok at Amarkantak reflects deep and enduring reverence for Sanatan culture.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the religious and cultural Loks being developed across the state are not merely structures of stone and brick. They are poised to become new growth engines for Madhya Pradesh’s development. Embracing Prime Minister’s vision of “Vocal for Local,” these sites are set to emerge as global tourism destinations, creating largescale employment opportunities at the local level. From artisans and craftsmen to the service sector, the development of these Loks will open new avenues of economic prosperity for all sections of society. This collective expression of faith is nurturing cultural roots while simultaneously accelerating the state’s journey toward modernity and self-reliance.