Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic and Iron Age Cultures have flourished in the state along Narmada Valley and other river valleys. Rich archaeological wealth has been unearthed in various parts of the state throwing light on its history.

Evidences of earliest human settlements have been found in Bhimbethika and other places of Raisen district. Over 600 rock shelters have been discovered in Bhimbethika. About 500 caves have rock paintings, which depict the life of pre-historic cave-dwellers. Sanchi in Raisen district is a world renowned Buddhist centre known for its stupas, monuments, temples and pillars dating from 3rd century B.C. to 12th century A.D. The most famous Sanchi stupa was built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, then governor of Ujjain. Bhojpur, in the same district is famous for its incomplete but marvelous Shiva temple, built by legendary Parmar King of Dhar, Raja Bhoj (1010-53).Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district is renowned the world over for its unique temples. Built by Chandela rulers from 950-1050 A.D., in a truly inspired burst of creativity these temples are a unique gift to the world. Orchha in Tikamgarh district is a medieval legacy in stone built by Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries. This land is hallowed by the memories of the great warrior Chhatrasal who illumined the pages of history by his heroic deeds.Madhya Pradesh has a number of important pilgrimage centres. While Ujjain and Omkareshwar have special significance due to Shrines having two of the twelve jyotirlingas, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Amarkantak, Hoshangabad are also important in their own rights.

Madhya Pradesh has produced great men and women who are held in high esteem due to their great deeds. India's immortal poet-dramatist Kalidas belonged to Ujjain and great musician Tansen to Gwalior. Bravery of great women like Durgawati, Avantibai, Kamlapati and Devi Ahilya Bai is inscribed in golden letters in history.In the freedom struggle, many movements were successfully launched in Madhya Pradesh coinciding with the Non-Cooperation Movement and Quit India Movement. Flag Satyagraha of Jabalpur in 1923, Salt Satyagraha of 1930 in Jabalpur and Jangle Satyagraha started by tribals are the notable movements. Almost all parts of the state were active in freedom struggle, though at different times.

Madhya Pradesh is the second largest Indian state in size with an area of 308,000 sq. kms

The concept of District Governance has been implemented and District Planning Committees have been empowered to plan and execute development works. A system of village level governance, Gram Swaraj, has been  put in place, from Jan. 26, 2001, under which Gram Sabhas have been bestowed with considerable powers for  development of villages and welfare activities.

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