The Finance Minister has allocated ₹1,610 crore for tourism, culture, religious trusts, and endowments department and ₹2,005 crore for Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028 in Ujjain, ₹507 crore for the development of 14 religious and cultural monuments, ₹100 crore has been made for the establishment of Gita Bhawan study centers and ₹850 crore has been allocated for metro rail projects for the overall development of tourism, improved connectivity and spiritual tourism circuit promotion
The Madhya Pradesh government has unveiled a Rs 4.21 lakh crore budget for the financial year 2025-26, marking a 15% increase from last year. Presented by Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Jagdish Devda, the budget focuses on religious tourism, cultural heritage, and infrastructure, with a special emphasis on boosting the state’s tourism sector.
The Finance Minister has allocated ₹1,610 crore for tourism, culture, religious trusts, and endowments, marking an increase of ₹133 crore from the previous year. Additionally, ₹2,005 crore has been set aside for the grand organization of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028 in Ujjain, modeled after the recently concluded Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. The budget also includes ₹507 crore for the development of 14 religious and cultural monuments and ₹100 crore for establishing Gita Bhawan study centers in urban areas to promote spiritual and cultural studies.
Major Allocations for Tourism and Cultural Development
With tourism playing a crucial role in economic growth and employment generation, the state has taken strategic measures to enhance its offerings.
A significant highlight is the Rs 2,005 crore provision for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2028 in Ujjain, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The event is expected to draw millions of pilgrims and tourists, boosting local businesses and spiritual tourism in the state.
Additionally, Rs 30 crore has been allocated for the Ram Path Gaman project and the development of Chitrakoot, a site deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. Another Rs 10 crore has been assigned to the Shrikrishna Pathey Yojana, which will focus on developing sites associated with Lord Krishna’s life.
Omkareshwar Development on the Lines of Mahakal Lok
The budget also highlighted one of the most ambitious tourism projects—the development of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, modeled after the Mahakal Lok Corridor in Ujjain. However, the total allocation for this project has not yet been disclosed, and the final outlay is expected to be announced during the budget discussions in the coming weeks at the Assembly.
Omkareshwar, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, will see extensive beautification, infrastructural upgrades, and spiritual enrichment initiatives.
The project includes the establishment of the Acharya Shankar International Advaita Vedanta Institute, promoting the teachings of Adi Shankaracharya. This initiative is expected to position Omkareshwar as a global spiritual hub, attracting scholars, devotees, and cultural tourists.
Furthermore, the government has already commissioned a 278 MW floating solar power plant in Omkareshwar, enhancing sustainability in tourism development. Infrastructure enhancements will include improvements to Narmada ghats, road widening, and a pedestrian bridge over the Narmada River.
Pilgrimage Tourism and Senior Citizen Benefits
Recognizing the role of religious tourism in boosting the state’s economy, the government has allocated Rs 50 crore for a pilgrimage scheme benefiting senior citizens. Since its inception, the scheme has facilitated travel for over eight lakh senior citizens, offering free transportation and special arrangements for the differently-abled.
Expansion of Cultural and Heritage Tourism
In a bid to promote Madhya Pradesh’s heritage, 14 religious and cultural monuments are being developed at a cost of Rs 507 crore. Additionally, a provision of Rs 100 crore has been made for the establishment of Gita Bhawan study centers across urban areas to encourage spiritual and cultural studies.
Metro Rail and Connectivity for Tourism Growth
The budget also prioritizes improved connectivity, crucial for tourism development. A provision of Rs 850 crore has been allocated for metro rail projects, facilitating better access for tourists and pilgrims visiting key sites across the state.
Attracting Investment and Strengthening Infrastructure
Tourism is a key driver of employment and investment in the state. The recently concluded Global Investors Summit (GIS) 2025 saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiling 18 new policies aimed at attracting investment. The budget has allocated Rs 3,250 crore for industrial incentives, reinforcing Madhya Pradesh’s position as an attractive destination for tourism-related enterprises.
With an increased budgetary focus on spiritual, cultural, and heritage tourism, Madhya Pradesh is positioning itself as a premier tourism destination in India. The state’s investment in Simhastha 2028, Omkareshwar’s transformation, and improved infrastructure reflect a strategic vision aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and economic growth. As these projects take shape, Madhya Pradesh is set to witness a surge in domestic and international tourist footfall, further solidifying its reputation as the ‘Heart of Incredible India.’
