Ujjain, February 12: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that forest products will economically empower tribal communities. During the inauguration of the Shri Mahakal Forest Fair 2026, he emphasized that with the blessings of Baba Shri Mahakal and Maa Harsiddhi, this event is being held at the educational site of Lord Krishna. Following its success in Bhopal, the forest fair is now being organized in Ujjain. For centuries, forests have been the foundation of health. This fair aims to raise awareness about forest products and enhance the economic strength of our hardworking tribal brothers.
He stated that forest medicine is a rich tradition rooted in our ancient Ayurveda and knowledge. The Shri Mahakal Forest Fair expands upon our natural philosophy of life. It is a grand celebration of health. Our forests are not just greenery; they are a treasure trove of divine medicines that promote wellness. Over 50 Ayurvedic practitioners will be present to provide medical services at the fair, along with various high-quality products made from Mahua.
CM Mohan Yadav remarked that in Sanatan culture, forests have never been merely wood, fuel, or resources; they are the core of health and culture. He referenced the Ramayana, where Lakshman was revived by the Sanjeevani herb found in the Himalayan forests. This is not just a religious tale but evidence of the profound, scientific, and practical knowledge of forest medicines in ancient India.
He noted that from the father of Ayurveda, Lord Dhanvantari, to sages like Charaka and Sushruta, our healers have developed medical practices using herbs found in forests, which are still recognized worldwide today. Whether it is Chyawanprash from Sage Chyawan or medicinal herbs like Ashwagandha and Amla, these are all gifts of the forest that have made India a land of health. Our forests serve as natural pharmacies. Neem, Giloy, Ashwagandha, Arjuna, Amla, Harra, and Baheda possess the power to prevent illness.
The Chief Minister highlighted that during the challenging times of COVID-19, the world witnessed how Ayurveda and AYUSH played a crucial role in saving lives. Our herbal concoction outperformed even the most expensive medicines. It is a matter of pride that today the global community looks towards Indian medical practices with hope and trust. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, AYUSH has gained a new identity and global platform. It is commendable that topics like forests and forest products, once considered limited, are now at the center of global dialogue.
He added that the forest fair provides a platform for tribal communities to sell forest products. The fair acts as a bridge between the hard work and traditional knowledge of tribal society and the modern market, further strengthening our state’s identity. The Shri Mahakal Forest Fair features a six-day event showcasing non-timber forest products, rural livelihoods, herbal entrepreneurship, conservation, processing, and marketing all in one place.
Approximately 250 grand and attractive stalls have been set up at the fair. Among them, 76 stalls belong to primary small forest product committees and forest produce centers, 76 are from private sector entrepreneurs, 16 are exhibitions from various government departments, and 16 are dedicated to forest-based food zones. Additionally, 50 stalls are reserved for free Ayurvedic OPD services, staffed by 50 Ayurvedic doctors and 100 traditional healers. The fair also features live demonstrations of products like Dona-Patta and Sabai rope. Key products on display include Mahua flowers, Mahua balls, Sal seeds, pickled seeds, Amla, Jamun, Bael fruit, and Chikonda seeds.
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