Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has revealed an ambitious vision to transform Kukru hill station in Betul district into a key hub for natural beauty and eco-tourism in Madhya Pradesh. The plan includes establishing a tourism circuit connecting Kukru with Chikhaldara, Muktagiri, and Melghat at a cost of Rs 150 crore, focusing on showcasing the region’s natural wonders.
Under the brand ‘Kukru Natural,’ units will be established in partnership with women self-help groups and the Forest Department to process and promote local products like coffee, Kodo Kutki, amla, honey, and other indigenous items. Additionally, centers for dairy product sales, including ghee, mawa, and curd, will be set up to boost local entrepreneurship.
A project worth Rs 10 crore for cultivating and processing Robusta and Arabica coffee, with technical assistance from the Coffee Board, will be implemented. Chief Minister Yadav made these announcements during his visit to Kukru, where he engaged in a morning yoga session at the rest house premises, advocating for the incorporation of yoga into daily routines for improved health.
Emphasizing Kukru’s potential, the Chief Minister outlined plans for developing eco-tourism facilities, sunrise and sunset viewpoints, modern infrastructure, and adventure activities like trekking. Initiatives to empower local tribal communities include establishing homestays resembling properties of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, with bookings managed by MP Tourism, aiming to create employment opportunities for locals.
Further measures involve introducing advanced cattle breeds, constructing cattle sheds for livestock rearers, building a Rs 5 crore pond for water conservation, and providing skill training in tourism, hospitality, and driving for local youth. Responding to community needs, infrastructure projects such as road construction, a bridge, a girls’ hostel, a wellness center, and a fair price shop were also announced.
Yadav pledged to increase the budget for Kukru’s development if necessary and instructed officials to devise comprehensive action plans for holistic growth encompassing tourism, environmental conservation, and essential amenities.
