The Madhya Pradesh government is actively seeking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from industries to transform Simhastha 2028 into a grand global spectacle. The total estimated requirement for identified facilities in Ujjain exceeds Rs 200 crore, officials confirmed.
Industrial Participation and Consent
More than ten industrial groups have already provided in-principle consent to participate in this initiative, with expectations of additional companies joining soon. The proposed CSR-backed projects encompass drinking water, sanitation, energy, and public utilities, aiming to enhance the pilgrimage experience for millions of devotees.
Key Infrastructure Projects Under CSR
The planned infrastructure includes approximately 500 water ATMs at an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore. Sanitation facilities will feature 1.5 lakh mobile toilets and urinals, costing around Rs 50 crore. Additionally, 2,000 changing rooms for women at ghats are estimated at Rs 6 crore. Barricading alone is expected to require around Rs 100 crore, while directional signages are pegged at about Rs 20 crore, according to officials familiar with the plans.
Other requirements include hybrid solar lighting, 3,000 mobile charging stations, and 500 EV charging points, estimated at around Rs 47.5 crore. Waste management infrastructure such as dustbins, volunteer kits (caps, T-shirts, ID cards), support for temporary medical facilities, and river cleaning are also integral to the plan.
Opportunities for Industries
Ujjain collector Roshan Kumar Singh stated, “We have identified key works to be taken up under CSR, including barricading, signages, changing rooms, temporary toilets and water ATMs. The aim is to give an opportunity to industries interested in participating in such a mega-magnitude event. Multiple companies can also come together to contribute to a single activity, and industries will be allowed branding opportunities.” He added that industries from across Madhya Pradesh are being invited to participate.
Coordination and Follow-ups
Dedicated groups will be formed based on areas of interest, with officials assigned for coordination and follow-ups, including visits to company headquarters. Rajesh Rathod, executive director of Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation, Ujjain, said, “Many industries have shown interest and discussions are on regarding how they can contribute to different components under CSR.”
With an estimated footfall of about 30-35 crore devotees, Simhastha 2028 is being positioned as both a major logistical exercise and a significant CSR opportunity for corporates.
