Nepanagar: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 127 development projects worth ₹363.82 crore in the tribal-rich Nepanagar during a tribal conference in Burhanpur district. The projects cover agriculture, industry, health, education, infrastructure, and community welfare, marking a significant step toward inclusive development in the region.
Nepanagar: A Hub of Agriculture and Industry
Addressing the gathering, CM Dr. Yadav described Nepanagar as a “unique confluence of agriculture and industry,” emphasizing the town’s potential as a gateway for Madhya Pradesh’s southern growth. Historically recognized as a key point connecting Khandesh and the south, the Chief Minister highlighted plans to develop Nepanagar into a strategic growth corridor for the state, with industrial and agricultural prosperity reaching the most remote communities.
The state government has increased the 2026-27 tribal welfare budget by 26 percent to ₹47,428 crore, aiming for holistic development and empowerment of tribal populations under initiatives like PM Jan-Man Scheme and Dharti Abha Tribal Village Utkarshta Mission.
Read also: Madhya Pradesh Launches New Phase of “Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan” to Strengthen Water Conservation
Two Major Irrigation Projects to Transform Farming
CM Dr. Yadav announced approval for two key irrigation projects in Nepanagar:
- Jhirmiti Medium Irrigation Project
- Navatha Major Irrigation Project
With a combined investment of ₹2,598.97 crore, these projects will provide irrigation to 51,800 hectares across 132 villages, benefiting 34,400 farming families. The Chief Minister assured that no farmer or resident will be displaced during project implementation and urged locals not to be swayed by misinformation.
Ensuring Industrial Growth and Employment
Nepanagar Paper Mill (Nepa Mill), a landmark of the region, will continue operations under government oversight. CM Dr. Yadav assured that the government will handle all necessary management, buy the mill’s legal papers, and secure workers’ jobs, ensuring the mill remains a pillar of the local economy.
Key Announcements in Health, Education, and Infrastructure
Among other major initiatives announced:
- Establishment of Agriculture Faculty in Burhanpur Government College.
- Creation of Dr. Hegdewar Memorial Garden.
- Upgrade of Dhulkot Primary Health Centre to a Community Health Centre.
- Construction of a high-level bridge over Tapi River with road widening from Lokhandiya to Haseenabad.
- Restoration and development of Asirgarh Fort as a tourism center.
- Conversion of Forest Rights Patta into registered property with government covering registration fees.
- Comprehensive survey for distribution of new forest rights pattas.
- Crop insurance and support for agriculture, horticulture, and spice cultivation in the Nimad region.
- Upcoming Regional Investors Summit in Nimad to promote investment opportunities.
Expanding Irrigation Capacity
Water Resources Minister Tulsiram Silawat stated that Madhya Pradesh has been rapidly expanding irrigation capacity under CM Dr. Yadav’s leadership. The Tapti Basin Mega Groundwater Recharge Project has also been approved, which will further enhance irrigation across Nepanagar and Burhanpur districts. Currently, irrigation covers 5.4 million hectares, with plans to expand it to 10 million hectares by 2029.
Tribal Welfare and Community Development
CM Dr. Yadav emphasized that development is meaningful only when it reaches the last person in society, particularly tribal communities. Local representatives and tribal leaders welcomed the projects, noting that initiatives like the Nepanagar irrigation projects, healthcare upgrades, and education programs would greatly improve living standards and economic opportunities.
The event also featured tribal cultural performances, traditional rituals, and a development exhibition, showcasing government initiatives under the Farmer Welfare Year. CM Dr. Yadav appreciated these efforts and encouraged continued community participation in regional development programs.
