Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that the gemstone-rich land of Panna needs no introduction. It has brought pride not only to itself but to the entire state of Madhya Pradesh. He said that today, Panna’s brilliance can be seen everywhere—its sacred land continues to produce diamonds that have made the state famous across the world.
He said that Panna deserves full credit for giving Madhya Pradesh the prestigious titles of ‘Diamond State’ and ‘Tiger State.’ Congratulating the people of Panna on receiving the GI (Geographical Indication) tag for Panna Diamonds, the Chief Minister said that the tag has now given the district global recognition. “The world will now know these diamonds only as Panna Diamonds,” he said.
Dr. Yadav added that Panna Diamond has emerged as a global brand, opening new avenues for investment in value chain development, mining, processing, exports, and gem-based industries.
He also said that Panna district will soon receive the gift of a new medical college, and noted that the grand Rajgarh Palace Hotel between Panna and Chhatarpur was inaugurated earlier in the day.
Development Works of ₹83 Crore Inaugurated and Laid
The Chief Minister was addressing a beneficiary conference at Gram Panchayat Shah Nagar in the Pawai constituency of Panna district. He inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 14 development projects worth ₹83 crore. These included the inauguration of the Bisani–Shyamgiri–Kalda–Saleha via Mainha road upgrade worth ₹9 crore, and foundation stones for 13 works worth ₹74 crore.
He also performed bhoomi pujan for the Tighra Barrage in Pawai, to be constructed at a cost of ₹4.25 crore.
The programme began with lighting of the ceremonial lamp, kanya pujan and the singing of Vande Mataram. Dr. Yadav also visited the multi-department development exhibition at the venue.
Key Announcements by the Chief Minister
Responding to local demands, Dr. Yadav announced:
Establishment of a new college in Raipura
Upgradation of Shah Nagar Gram Panchayat to a Municipal Council
Opening of two new health centres in Shah Nagar block
He also announced:
Construction of the Tikria–Reethi via Khamaria road at a cost of ₹135 crore
Widening of the Shah Nagar–Bori–Chamraiya road
Survey, repair and revival of canals of old dams
Launch of Law and Science faculties in Pawai and Shah Nagar colleges
Restarting closed industries in Shah Nagar
Major Infrastructure Push for Panna
Dr. Yadav said that to give a major boost to Panna’s development, the state government is setting up a Diamond Business Park at a cost of ₹15 crore. This park will write a new chapter in Panna’s economy.
He added that the 40-hectare industrial park at Baragaon is almost complete.
The long-closed NMDC project has been revived, and large-scale diamond mining has resumed once again.
Ken–Betwa River Linking Project to Transform the District
The Chief Minister said that the upcoming Ken–Betwa National River Linking Project will significantly transform Panna. The project will irrigate 1.35 lakh hectares and ensure drinking water supply to over 600 villages, including Pawai.
He said that Panna Tiger Reserve, world-famous diamonds, rich forest wealth, the Ken River’s unique landscape, and the government’s visionary policies will together reshape the district’s future.
He noted that Panna Tiger Reserve is emerging as a major wildlife tourism hub. The increasing tiger population, global reputation, and rising tourist interest are creating new livelihoods for local youth in guiding, hotels, transport, and handicrafts. Efforts to promote homestays, adventure tourism and improve connectivity are accelerating development.
Women’s Empowerment: Panna Leading the State
Dr. Yadav said that Panna is a leader in women’s empowerment in Madhya Pradesh.
10,301 self-help groups with more than 1 lakh women have received bank linkage worth over ₹180 crore
Nearly 18,000 women have become ‘Lakhpati Didis’
He added that under the Ladli Behna scheme, women are receiving ₹1,500 per month.
For the upcoming medical college, 25 acres have been allocated and an MoU has been signed with the investor.
