With the Global Investors Summit drawing closer, The Pioneer caught up with several public representatives in the state capital on Friday. The leaders shared their thoughts around the conclave that hopes to launch Bhopal as a prime investment destination.
Ruling party legislator from Bhopal (West) Bhagwandas Sabnani said, "The summit will provide opportunities for both the state and the people of the state capital. The presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is in itself a major achievement for the city."
Sabnani lauded the effort, saying, "CM Mohan Yadav is continuously planning for the state, having already organised regional industrial conclaves. More than 17 categories have been designated for investment, ensuring benefits for all sections of society across the state capital and the state as a whole."
Adopting a contrarian view, Congress MLA from Bhopal (North) Aatif Arif Aqueel remarked, "The actual benefits of this summit will be realised in the future, determining how successful it truly was. Its branding has been done quite well, but the real question is—who will benefit at the ground level? The presence of PM Modi will certainly bring some benefits to the city, that much is certain. However, it is difficult to say who exactly will gain from it."
Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) Chairman Kishan Suryavanshi expressed hope, saying, "The summit is full of possibilities and has something for everyone, ensuring benefits for all. It will generate employment opportunities in the state and positively impact its economic system."
Providing a preview, Suryavanshi added, "Continuous efforts are being made to ensure skilled youth gain employment. The concerned department is actively showcasing land banks around the city for industrial purposes, aiming to attract large-scale investments in both the state and the city, ultimately benefiting the public."
Congress leader and Municipal Ward One Councillor Lakshman Rajput raised concerns, stating, "The work being carried out by BMC for the summit lacks quality. There is corruption involved, with the cost of materials being reported as ten times higher than the actual price. Roads that were already built are being reconstructed unnecessarily."
Rajput's words, however, fail to find resonance with Kusum Chaturvedi, who represents the neighbouring Ward Two in the BMC.
Chaturvedi said, "Large-scale events such as this summit will bring a new identity to the city and the state. The citizens of the city will benefit greatly from it."
Ward Four Councillor Rajesh Hingorani voiced similar sentiments, stating, "The summit will benefit all cities and wards of the state. The arrival of PM Modi has transformed Bhopal into a beautifully enhanced city. With investors coming in, development activities in the state are bound to increase."