Madhya Pradesh Sets Ambitious Goal for Airport Development to Boost Tourism and Economy
Madhya Pradesh is charting a bold course for its aviation future, with the state government announcing plans to establish one airport every 150 km across the state by 2030. This move is part of the state’s newly developed aviation policy, designed to enhance connectivity and promote tourism, particularly religious tourism, which is a key attraction for the state.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting, Kailash Vijayvargiya, the Minister for Urban Administration, outlined the government’s ambitious vision for the state’s aviation landscape. The new policy seeks to improve connectivity across Madhya Pradesh, not only for domestic travel but also to increase international access, particularly for religious pilgrims visiting key destinations such as Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and other temples across the state. Vijayvargiya highlighted the importance of connecting tourism spots to support both religious and cultural tourism. The goal is clear: with airports spaced every 150 km, the policy will facilitate easier travel for tourists and pilgrims alike, significantly boosting footfall to these sacred destinations. The policy also envisions an airstrip every 75 km and a helipad for helicopter landings every 45 km, ensuring even remote areas benefit from improved air connectivity.
Beyond tourism, the policy has a broader economic vision. The state government sees civil aviation as a key driver for economic development, particularly in boosting air cargo services. As Madhya Pradesh is a landlocked state, facilitating air cargo transport for high-demand products like vegetables, fruits, and other perishable goods to Middle Eastern countries is a priority. The state’s government expects this connectivity to stimulate trade and increase revenue opportunities for local businesses. Additionally, the aviation sector is expected to create jobs—not just at airports but in various ancillary sectors. Vijayvargiya noted that for every job created at an airport, four jobs are typically generated in the wider economy, further strengthening the state’s workforce.
In tandem with the aviation policy, the cabinet also approved the MSME Development Policy-2025, aimed at fostering industrial growth, particularly in backward regions. The new policy will offer financial incentives, such as 40% assistance for investment promotion, 48% support for SC/ST and women entrepreneurs, and aid of up to Rs 1.3 crore for setting up units in underdeveloped blocks. Vijayvargiya further explained that businesses that provide over 100 jobs would receive a monthly stipend of Rs 5,000 per employee for five years, with additional funding for skill development. Additionally, the policy includes incentives for MSMEs producing medical equipment and footwear, which will be crucial in positioning Madhya Pradesh as a key player in these industries.
Madhya Pradesh is also prioritising the growth of start-ups, with a goal to double the number of start-ups in the state from 5,000 to 10,000 within the next five years. The government has outlined plans for financial and non-financial support for start-ups and incubators, including the development of a mega incubation centre, designed in collaboration with national and international institutions. Lastly, the state has introduced an Integrated Township Policy-2025, which will empower individuals and even groups of farmers to develop townships, providing more inclusive growth opportunities in the urban sector. The state’s ambitious goals in aviation and beyond reflect a vision to build a more connected, prosperous Madhya Pradesh. By improving air connectivity, supporting MSMEs, and fostering innovation through start-ups and infrastructure development, the state is positioning itself as a key economic and tourism hub in India. As these policies come to fruition, Madhya Pradesh will likely see an uptick in employment, trade, and tourist arrivals, boosting its standing both nationally and internationally.
