Bhopal/Varanasi: The Madhya Pradesh-Uttar Pradesh Cooperation Summit was held in Varanasi on March 31, 2026, bringing together top leaders and officials from both states. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav of Madhya Pradesh, along with Uttar Pradesh ministers, senior bureaucrats, and eminent personalities, participated in the event to discuss critical areas including investment, MSME growth, ODOP initiatives, and religious tourism.
The summit witnessed several MoUs (Memorandums of Understanding) being signed, opening new avenues for joint development between the two states.
MoUs Signed: Boost to Temple Trusts and ODOP Initiatives
During the summit, an MoU was signed between the Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust and Mahakaleshwar Temple Trust, aimed at fostering collaboration. Additionally, the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative saw strengthened cooperation between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav emphasized the immense industrial potential of Madhya Pradesh, highlighting that exports from the state exceed ₹70,000 crore annually, signaling promising opportunities for investors.
Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Governance Model Lauded
Dr. Yadav praised Kashi Vishwanath Dham as one of the world’s most significant religious sites. He also commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for establishing a strong governance and development model in the state. According to Dr. Yadav, India is rapidly advancing toward becoming the third-largest economy in the world.
Naxal-Free Madhya Pradesh Strengthens Democracy
The Chief Minister highlighted the efforts of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in curbing Naxalism. Madhya Pradesh has now achieved a Naxal-free status, which Dr. Yadav described as a major milestone for strengthening democracy in India.
Religious Tourism: Ujjain and Varanasi in Focus
Dr. Yadav underlined the cultural and religious importance of Ujjain and Varanasi, noting that developments like the Mahakal Lok and Kashi Vishwanath Corridor have enhanced religious tourism in both states. He also referenced historical sites linked to Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, reinforcing the strong cultural ties between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Joint Efforts in Ken-Betwa Project and Solar Energy
The summit also highlighted joint initiatives in water and energy sectors. The Ken-Betwa river linking project, guided by Prime Minister Modi, has begun to provide irrigation and drinking water benefits across multiple districts in both states. Additionally, a 2000 MW solar project in Morena is being developed collaboratively to strengthen renewable energy initiatives.
Learning from Singhast and Maha Kumbh
Dr. Yadav explained that Madhya Pradesh officials studied the organization of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh to ensure better management of the upcoming Singhast fair in Ujjain.
Investment and Development Opportunities in Madhya Pradesh
The Chief Minister highlighted that Madhya Pradesh has expanded its irrigation coverage to 5.5 million hectares, and the state now has 40 medical colleges. Government policies offer 30 acres of land at ₹1 lease for hospital projects, while farmers receive up to 50% subsidy on various schemes, showcasing a strong push toward development.
ODOP Empowering Artisans
Uttar Pradesh Industries Minister Nand Gopal Gupta (Nandi) emphasized that the summit demonstrates strong inter-state relations. The ODOP initiative has provided local artisans and craftsmen with increased recognition. So far, over 1.63 lakh youth have received loans totaling more than ₹6,000 crore, generating significant employment opportunities.
MSME Growth and Export Boom in Uttar Pradesh
Officials noted that Uttar Pradesh has over 96 lakh MSME units, making it the largest MSME hub in India. The state’s exports have surged from ₹88,000 crore in 2017 to ₹1.86 lakh crore in 2024, with ODOP contributing significantly. Infrastructure projects like Jewar Airport and MSME parks are further accelerating industrial growth.
Grand Exhibition Showcases Traditional Products
A grand exhibition was organized during the summit, highlighting traditional products from both states. Uttar Pradesh displayed Banarasi sarees, zari work, wooden crafts, glass beads, and pink meenakari, while Madhya Pradesh showcased banana fiber products, millets, jute goods, bansi mats, metal crafts, Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav personally reviewed the exhibition and interacted with artisans, encouraging them to leverage these platforms for greater market reach.
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