Project aims to strengthen agri-enterprise ecosystem, ensure steady floral supply for religious tourism, and boost farmer incomes

With an eye on the Simhastha Kumbh Mela scheduled for 2028, the Madhya Pradesh government has approved the development of a 100-acre commercial flower production cluster in Ujjain, a move aimed at meeting year-round demand from the temple city while creating sustainable income opportunities for farmers.

The initiative, approved under the direction of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, will be implemented by the state’s Horticulture Department as part of a broader push to modernise high-value agriculture and reduce supply-chain inefficiencies.

Horticulture and Food Processing Minister Narayan Singh Kushwah said the cluster will be developed on identified land near Ujjain to ensure uninterrupted local availability of flowers for the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga and other religious centres.

According to the department’s action plan, the cluster will focus on scientific, large-scale cultivation of high-demand varieties such as roses, marigolds, gerberas, tuberose, chrysanthemums and gladiolus. Farmers from Ujjain and neighbouring districts will be encouraged to adopt modern cultivation techniques, positioning floriculture as a viable agri-enterprise rather than subsistence activity.

Officials said the project is designed to improve supply-chain efficiency while addressing income volatility in agriculture. Localised production is expected to lower transportation costs, reduce post-harvest losses and ensure timely availability of flowers during peak religious seasons. The cluster will also support value addition through processing facilities and direct market linkages, strengthening the regional floriculture ecosystem.

With Simhastha 2028 expected to draw millions of pilgrims, the flower cluster is seen as both a logistical necessity and an economic opportunity—aligning religious tourism needs with long-term agricultural growth.