MP Plans Clean Simhastha to Earn Carbon Credits

• 13 Dec 2025

Why in News?

The Madhya Pradesh government is developing a first-of-its-kind sustainability plan for Simhastha Kumbh 2028 in Ujjain, aiming to make it environmentally responsible and eligible for carbon credits.

Key Points

• Massive Footfall: Nearly 30 crore pilgrims are expected, with systems being designed to reduce environmental impact and improve hygiene and safety.
• Cleaner Ghats: Devotees will experience cleaner ghats with minimal waste, complete plastic recycling, and improved overall sanitation.
• River Rejuvenation: The Kshipra River will be cleaner, ensuring safer and better-quality water for ritual bathing during the pilgrimage.
• Carbon Credit Focus: The Simhastha administration is reviewing proposals on carbon accounting, waste-to-resource systems, plastic recycling technologies, and river purification to earn carbon credits.
• Global Standards: Authorities aim to integrate scientific and sustainable practices aligned with global benchmarks into the core planning of the 2028 Simhastha.
• Indore Model: The initiative builds on Indore’s success in earning carbon credits through bio-methanisation, bio-CNG, and waste-to-energy projects, generating significant revenue.
• Waste Management Challenge: Managing waste from 30 crore visitors remains the biggest challenge, with proposals for 100% plastic segregation and recycling.
• Water & Energy Measures: Plans include reusing treated water for agriculture and industry, reducing carbon emissions from infrastructure, transport, waste, and energy sectors.
• Phased Implementation: Proposals will be assessed and implemented in phases ahead of Simhastha Kumbh 2028 to ensure a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable event.

Simhastha Kumbh

• The Simhastha Kumbh Mela is a Hindu religious festival held every 12 years in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• The festival is called “Simhastha” because it is celebrated when Jupiter (Brihaspati) enters the Leo constellation (Simha Rashi).
• This specific astrological alignment determines the timing of the Ujjain Kumbh, distinguishing it from Kumbh Melas at other locations