Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, in a significant interaction in Bhopal, detailed his government's multi-pronged strategy to empower women and accelerate healthcare development in the state. Speaking at the 'Sashakt Aur Samarth Nari Samwad' on Tuesday, the CM engaged with educated women, beneficiaries of the 'Ajeevika Mission', and 'Drone Didis', reaffirming a commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous society.
Empowering Mothers and Sisters: Policies and Personal Commitment
Chief Minister Yadav emphasized that the empowerment of every mother and sister in Madhya Pradesh, both socially and economically, is a core focus of his administration. He highlighted the structural support systems being created, noting that 35 per cent of positions in urban local bodies and state government services are reserved for women. This builds upon the Central Government's grant of 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament.
He credited the national leadership for enabling women to reach top positions in the Indian armed forces. To foster economic independence and confidence, the state has launched numerous welfare schemes. Women establishing industries receive subsidies, and an additional 2 per cent discount on property registry is provided to encourage more women to become property owners.
In a personal reflection, CM Yadav attributed his political journey to the inspiration and unwavering support of his elder sister, Kalavati Yadav. He stated that the values, affection, and courage imparted by his mother and sister laid his foundation. "In my family, daughters-in-law are treated equally as daughters, deserving equal affection, care, and respect," he said, linking his personal ethos to the broader Sanatan culture which places the mother as life's first teacher and the nation as a maternal principle.
Healthcare and Heritage: A Dual Development Focus
Parallel to social empowerment, the Chief Minister outlined ambitious plans for the state's development and heritage preservation, with a strong emphasis on healthcare infrastructure. He announced that industrial growth is being pursued alongside the expansion of medical services.
In an innovative move, the state government is leasing 25 acres of land for medical colleges and hospitals under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Yadav stated that Madhya Pradesh has taken a pioneering national lead in this initiative. The number of medical colleges is steadily increasing, and the government funds MBBS fees, which can range between Rs 70 to 80 lakh, for economically weak meritorious students.
The government has also expanded education and employment opportunities in Ayurveda and paramedical fields beyond allopathy. In a unique gesture, the state has started honouring body and organ donors with a guard of honour, which has yielded positive results.
Sustained Dialogue and Future Pathways
Affirming his government's participatory approach, CM Mohan Yadav declared that such dialogues with sisters and daughters would continue in the coming months. He referred to the visitors at his residence not merely as women, but as his sisters, underscoring a familial approach to governance.
While discussing startup opportunities for women entrepreneurs during the event, the CM reinforced the message that the state's development roadmap integrally weaves together women's empowerment, healthcare advancement, and cultural preservation. The initiatives aim to ensure that the women of Madhya Pradesh are not just beneficiaries but active drivers of the state's growth narrative.
