Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has announced plans to develop Bhind as a new industrial hub within the Gwalior-Chambal region, signaling a significant shift in the area's economic landscape. This decision reflects the state government's commitment to fostering employment, promoting industrial growth, empowering women, and enhancing farmers' incomes across Madhya Pradesh over the next five years.
The Chief Minister made this announcement while addressing a public rally in the Lahar Assembly constituency of the Bhind district, which is located near Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized the region's transformation from an area once plagued by the fear of dacoits to one now embracing progress and pride. "The people of Bhind have chosen the path of development, and the state government is fully committed to the progress of the Chambal region," he stated.
Highlighting the region's long-standing tradition of service in the Armed Forces, Yadav praised the courage of Bhind's youth, noting that "Every household in Bhind has produced brave soldiers guarding the nation's borders." This recognition of the region's valor underscores the government's intention to build on its strengths while charting a new course for economic prosperity.
The government's commitment to developing the Gwalior-Chambal region is further evidenced by recent industrial initiatives. In March 2025, Chief Minister Yadav laid the foundation stone for a Rs 1,000 crore mega unit of Elixir Industries in the Malanpur industrial area of Bhind district. This unit is expected to manufacture Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), plywood, and other value-added products. At the same event, foundation stones were also laid for seven units at Gwalior's Readymade Garment Park and 11 units in the Piparseva industrial area of Morena district.
These developments are projected to create numerous employment opportunities for local youth and contribute to the state's growing economy. Energy Minister Pradyumn Singh Tomar lauded the Chief Minister's efforts in boosting industrial growth in the Gwalior-Chambal region, emphasizing the positive impact these new units will have on employment.
The Chief Minister has also underscored the government's dedication to supporting farmers, noting that the Chambal-Kalisindh-Parvati (PKC) link project will bring prosperity to the region, with Chambal receiving the most significant benefits. This project aims to provide sustainable access to irrigation, drinking water, and industrial resources, benefiting thousands of families. Once executed, the PKC project will provide ample water for irrigation to several districts in the Gwalior-Chambal regions, as well as others such as Indore, Ujjain, Dhar, Agar-Malwa, Shajapur, Dewas, and Rajgarh.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Yadav highlighted the progress in irrigation across Madhya Pradesh, stating that the state currently has 55 lakh hectares of irrigated land, with a target of 100 lakh hectares in the near future. He also mentioned key interlinking river projects, including the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal River Project, approved after 40 years with a cost of Rs 70,000 crore, and the Ken-Betwa Link Project, supported by the Central government, which will benefit multiple districts in Bundelkhand.
The government's focus on industrial development in the Gwalior-Chambal region is part of a broader strategy to transform Madhya Pradesh into a hub of economic activity. Through initiatives like the Global Investor Summit and Regional Industry Conclaves, the state government is actively inviting investment from both domestic and international sources.
Bhind's potential as an industrial hub is also supported by existing infrastructure and resources. The Gwalior region, which includes Bhind, is strategically located near the Chambal Expressway and the Delhi-Mumbai Dedicated Freight Corridor, enhancing its connectivity to key markets. The region's abundant agricultural output also presents opportunities for agro-based industries, such as food processing and packaging.
While the path to becoming a thriving industrial hub may present challenges, such as the need for improved storage facilities and skilled labor, the government's proactive approach and commitment to development signal a promising future for Bhind and the Gwalior-Chambal region.