Ujjain: In a major infrastructure push ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has approved a ₹590 crore proposal to develop a new airstrip in Ujjain, aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and handling a massive influx of pilgrims during the religious mega event.
The decision was taken under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav as part of a broader set of approvals exceeding ₹15,000 crore across key sectors including irrigation, education, forest conservation, and social welfare.
Ujjain Airstrip to Boost Kumbh Connectivity
The proposed airstrip will be developed over 437.5 acres and is designed to accommodate Airbus A320 aircraft, significantly enhancing Ujjain’s aviation capacity.
Key highlights of the project:
- Developed under the Centre’s RCS-UDAN scheme
- Land to be handed over to the Airports Authority of India (AAI)
- Designed to support high passenger traffic during peak pilgrimage periods
Officials said the project will ease travel congestion during Simhastha Kumbh Mela and improve long-term air connectivity for Ujjain.
Read also: MP CM Mohan Yadav Transfers ₹1,836 Crore Under Ladli Behna Yojana; 1.25 Crore Women Benefited
Strategic Push Ahead of Simhastha Kumbh 2028
The Simhastha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years in Ujjain, attracts millions of devotees from across India and abroad.
With preparations beginning years in advance, the airstrip approval signals early infrastructure readiness for:
- Large-scale pilgrimage management
- Improved tourism connectivity
- Enhanced regional economic activity
Beyond the Kumbh period, the airstrip is expected to strengthen Ujjain’s position as a key cultural and economic hub in Madhya Pradesh.
Katna Micro Irrigation Project Approved in Mandsaur
Alongside aviation infrastructure, the Cabinet also cleared the Katna Micro Irrigation Project in Mandsaur district with an investment of ₹88.41 crore.
Project benefits include:
- Irrigation coverage of 3,500 hectares
- Support to 12 villages in Bhanpura tehsil
- Improved water efficiency through micro-irrigation systems
The initiative is expected to boost agricultural productivity and promote sustainable farming practices in the region.
Focus on Agriculture, Welfare and Education
The Cabinet also approved several key measures aimed at strengthening social and administrative systems, including:
Agriculture and Procurement Support
- Continued procurement of pulses under Minimum Support Price (MSP) framework
- Strengthening farmer income support systems
Education Sector Expansion
- Extension of PM SHRI Schools scheme until 2031
- Continuation of fee reimbursement programmes
- Additional financial assistance for Scheduled Caste students studying in Delhi
These decisions underline the government’s focus on inclusive education and rural upliftment.
Balancing Infrastructure Growth with Social Development
The approvals reflect a dual development strategy by the Madhya Pradesh government—combining large-scale infrastructure investments with continued support for agriculture, education, and welfare schemes.
While the Ujjain airstrip represents a major push in transport infrastructure, parallel investments in irrigation and education highlight efforts to ensure balanced regional development.
Early Planning for a Mega Religious Event
With the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028 still two years away, the early approval of the airstrip project indicates proactive planning for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
If completed on schedule, the new airstrip is expected to:
- Reduce travel bottlenecks
- Improve visitor experience
- Strengthen long-term connectivity in the Ujjain region
The ₹590 crore Ujjain airstrip project marks a significant step in Madhya Pradesh’s preparations for Simhastha Kumbh 2028. Alongside irrigation and welfare initiatives, the Cabinet’s decisions highlight a broader vision of infrastructure-led growth balanced with social development priorities.
