In a major move aimed at long-term infrastructure development and social welfare, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, on Tuesday, approved a slew of development projects totalling over Rs 26,800 crore. The decisions were taken during a meeting held at the Mantralaya. The session commenced with the rendition of Vande Mataram, setting the stage for several historic financial sanctions and policy amendments intended to strengthen the State’s foundation for the next several years. Rs 26,311 crore for public works: The largest portion of the approved budget is dedicated to the Public Works Department (PWD), with a sanction of approximately Rs 26,311 crore for the period from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031. This investment is designed to revolutionise the state’s connectivity and infrastructure upkeep over the next five years. The allocation includes several critical provisions: Road Networks: Rs 5,000 crore has been earmarked specifically for the renewal of major district roads and other road networks. Central Funding: Rs 6,925 crore was allocated for projects related to the Central Road Infrastructure Fund. Land Acquisition: A significant provision of Rs 6,500 crore has been made for land acquisition compensation to facilitate future development. Maintenance & Establishment: The Cabinet approved Rs 6,180.57 crore for headquarters, divisional, and maintenance works, alongside Rs 1,680 crore for the upkeep of high-category government residential and non-residential buildings. Grants & Decrees: Rs 25.50 crore was sanctioned for grants to the Indian Roads Congress and decree payments.

 

Scholarship Hike for OBC Students: from Rs 1,550 to Rs 10,000: In a step toward social justice and educational empowerment, the Cabinet approved an amendment to the OBC Student Hostel Scheme (2005). For students from Madhya Pradesh pursuing higher education in Delhi, the monthly scholarship has been increased nearly sevenfold, from Rs 1,550 to Rs 10,000. Under the revised scheme, 100 new students, 50 undergraduate and 50 postgraduate, will benefit annually. Existing beneficiaries will also continue to receive this enhanced support until they complete their courses. Eligibility for the scheme remains tied to qualifying for post-matric scholarships and falling within established income limits. Expanding Healthcare and Medical Education: The Cabinet granted revised administrative approvals for the expansion of key medical institutions in Bhopal and Rewa: Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal: Approval for Rs 79.16 crore was granted under the PG seat expansion scheme. This project will facilitate the construction of key facilities such as a Radiotherapy OPD, LINAC bunker, Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, and a Cath Lab, along with post-facto approval of Rs 14.08 crore. Shyam Shah Medical College, Rewa: A revised administrative sanction of Rs 174.80 crore was approved for the expansion of the Super Speciality Hospital, aimed at strengthening advanced healthcare services in the region.

 

Rural Prosperity through Micro Irrigation: Agricultural productivity in the Shajapur and Ujjain districts is set for a major boost following the approval of Rs 155.82 crore for the Lakhundar High-Pressure Micro Irrigation Project. Drawing water from an existing reservoir near Maksi on the Lakhundar River, the project will provide high-pressure irrigation to 9,200 hectares of land. This initiative will serve 24 villages, including 17 in Shajapur Tehsil and 7 in the Tarana Tehsil of Ujjain district. Electrification of nearly 39,000 Anganwadi centres: In a move to enhance early childhood education and maternal care, the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 80.41 crore for the electrification of 38,901 Anganwadi buildings under the Women and Child Development Department for the period 2026-27 to 2030-31. Out of the State’s 97,882 total centres, those currently lacking power will be provided with connections. This includes 38,814 departmental buildings, 69 Anganwadis under the Dharti Aaba scheme and 18 buildings constructed through district mineral funds. This infrastructure upgrade will allow these centres to effectively utilise lighting, fans, coolers, smart TVs, and water purifiers, creating a significantly improved environment for both children and staff.