Ken-Betwa river linking project to boost Bundelkhand’s prosperity, says MP CM Mohan Yadav

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav announced a major transformation underway in Bundelkhand during a public ceremony celebrating Maharaja Chhatrasal Jayanti and Panna Nagar Gaurav Diwas.

He highlighted the Ken-Betwa River Linking Project as a key driver of prosperity for Panna, Damoh, Chhatarpur, and the entire Bundelkhand region. “Farmers’ lives will change for the better, and happiness will prevail across the area,” he said.

Dr. Yadav performed Bhoomi-Pujan and inaugurated development projects worth over ₹90 crore, including the Shri Jugal Kishore Lok initiative. He revealed plans for a new Medical College in Panna, promising further advancement for the region.

Emphasizing Panna’s rich history and natural wealth, the Chief Minister noted its abundant diamond reserves and courageous heritage. He recalled how Maharaja Chhatrasal selected Panna as his capital, making it home to some of India’s finest diamonds. The development of Shri Jugal Kishore Lok is expected to attract pilgrims nationwide, boosting tourism and the local economy.

Dr. Yadav stressed the government’s focus on good governance, mentioning the closure of liquor shops in Panna and 18 other religious towns. “We plan to replace liquor shops with milk parlors and promote animal husbandry and cow protection,” he said, adding that cow shelter honorariums have increased from ₹20 to ₹40 per day.

He announced that Maharaja Chhatrasal’s biography will be included in school curricula to educate students about his bravery and legacy, with official celebrations of Chhatrasal Jayanti planned.

Several new welfare schemes were also unveiled: Raah Veer Yojana offers ₹25,000 to those aiding road accident victims; Widow Remarriage Kalyani Yojana provides ₹2 lakh assistance; and Ladli Bahna Yojana’s monthly assistance will increase to ₹3,000 over five years. Additionally, the Jagannath Yatra will come under the Department of Religious Trusts and Endowments, Geeta Bhavans will be set up in all towns, and Adarsh Vrindavan Villages will be developed to promote a cow-based rural economy.

Dr. Yadav also announced upgrades to Ajaygarh Hospital, inclusion of Govind, Baldau, Prannath, and Janki Temples in the Jugal Kishore Mahalok development, renovation of ponds, completion of a stadium, and the opening of a new college in Brajpur.

The Chief Minister paid floral tributes at Maharaja Chhatrasal’s statue in Chhatrasal Park and honored the Chhatrasal Gaddi. He met with Shri Prannath Temple Trust members to review their ongoing work.

Member of Parliament Shri B.D. Sharma praised the Chief Minister for gifting Panna a Medical College, Agriculture College, and Ayurvedic Hospital. He also lauded the NMDC Diamond Park and Museum, which have brought international recognition to Panna. Sharma remarked that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, the region’s development is advancing rapidly.