Bhopal July 15, 2026

Madhya Pradesh may soon broaden the scope of its Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana, with the state government exploring the inclusion of the Narmada Parikrama and major religious tourism destinations under the flagship pilgrimage scheme. The proposal is part of a wider plan to strengthen religious tourism, improve pilgrim facilities and preserve the state's rich spiritual heritage.

Reviewing the functioning of the Religious Trusts and Endowments Department on Tuesday, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Culture, Tourism, Religious Trusts and Endowments Dharmendra Singh Lodhi asked officials to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for incorporating the Narmada Parikrama into the scheme. He noted that the sacred river flows through 16 districts of Madhya Pradesh and said the proposed expansion should reflect its religious, cultural and tourism significance.

The minister also asked the department to expedite preparations for launching inter-state pilgrimage bus services, a proposal announced earlier by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, so that devotees can undertake pilgrimages beyond the state's borders in a planned and convenient manner.

Lodhi emphasised that the state's religious heritage extends beyond government-managed shrines. He called for a dedicated plan to identify and restore important non-government-managed temples, while also reviewing the status of land attached to government-administered temples and departmental properties located outside Madhya Pradesh.

The review meeting also assessed the progress of temple restoration and documentation, the functioning of the Madhya Pradesh Pilgrimage and Fair Authority, efforts to fill vacant posts, implementation of departmental announcements and the disposal of cases monitored through the CM Monitor and CM Helpline.

With Simhastha 2028 in Ujjain approaching, the minister asked officials to prepare an integrated action plan to ensure timely execution of all works linked to the mega religious congregation. He said the focus should be on the planned development of pilgrimage centres, conservation of temples with religious and historical significance and strengthening infrastructure to handle the expected influx of devotees. He also directed officials to accord priority to development proposals submitted by regional ministers, Members of Parliament and MLAs, while respecting local needs and public sentiment.

In another step aimed at improving the pilgrim experience, the department will create a digital repository of major temples across Madhya Pradesh. Verified information on the history, location, rituals and visitor facilities of prominent temples will be uploaded to an online portal, enabling devotees from India and abroad to access authentic information before planning their visits.

The proposed expansion of the pilgrimage scheme, combined with temple restoration, improved connectivity and digital outreach, reflects the state's broader effort to strengthen religious tourism while preserving its cultural and spiritual heritage. The department has been asked to prepare detailed implementation plans so that the proposals can be taken forward in a time-bound manner.