Varanasi/Bhopal: On March 31, 2026, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav arrived in Varanasi to participate in the Madhya Pradesh–Uttar Pradesh Cooperation Conference. He was warmly received by Uttar Pradesh Industrial Development Minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’, along with MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan, Sports & Youth Welfare Minister Girish Yadav, local representatives, and senior district officials.
The visit aimed at strengthening collaboration between the two states to enhance economic growth, employment generation, and religious tourism development.
Inspection of Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Corridor
During his visit, CM Dr. Mohan Yadav performed darshan at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and conducted a detailed inspection of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor. He closely observed crowd management systems, infrastructure, and pilgrim facilitation mechanisms.
Special presentations on crowd control measures were showcased to the Chief Minister, followed by a meeting with officials to understand operational and logistical arrangements within the corridor.
Read also: MP CM Mohan Yadav Inaugurates Launchpad Incubation Center in Indore, Eyes Startup Hub by 2047
Strengthening MP-UP Cooperation for Development
Highlighting the importance of inter-state coordination, Dr. Yadav toured various ghats along the Ganga and offered prayers. He praised the effective management of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, initiated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, emphasizing the vital role of local community participation.
The Chief Minister noted that collaboration between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh can help replicate best practices in religious tourism management, leading to improved pilgrim experiences and enhanced economic benefits for local communities.
Focus on Religious Tourism and MSME Growth
Dr. Yadav acknowledged Uttar Pradesh’s achievements under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, particularly the promotion of Banarasi saris. He emphasized that Madhya Pradesh is making similar strides by promoting Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees and other MSME products. Both states are set to coordinate strategies to strengthen small-scale industries and improve market access for local artisans.
Crowd Management Model for Simhasth
The Chief Minister revealed plans to implement a crowd management model similar to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor at the Ujjain Simhasth, ensuring safe and smooth pilgrim experiences. The visit provided valuable insights for planning large-scale religious events with efficient infrastructure and crowd control measures.
Economic Growth and Employment Generation
CM Yadav highlighted that inter-state collaboration would generate employment opportunities for youth and uplift economically weaker sections. He mentioned that roadshows and promotional events would help bring visibility to local MSME products, ensuring fair market value and boosting economic prosperity.
Leveraging Mahakal Lok and Kashi Vishwanath Corridor for Development
The Chief Minister stated that projects like Mahakal Lok in Ujjain and the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi have transformed local economies under the guidance of PM Narendra Modi. Sharing experiences between states through MoUs will further strengthen regional development and cultural tourism initiatives.
Promoting Cultural Programs and Historical Heritage
Dr. Yadav informed that Madhya Pradesh is conducting research on the life of Emperor Vikramaditya, with government fellowships supporting the work. A grand theatrical performance based on the emperor’s life will be staged at Kashi Vishwanath Dham from April 3–5, featuring around 400 artists, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Collaboration Over Competition
The Chief Minister emphasized that the era of competition between states is being replaced with cooperation. Projects like the Ken-Betwa river linking and solar initiatives will be jointly executed, ensuring holistic development, employment generation, and long-term benefits for both Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
