The Environmental Planning & Coordination Organisation (EPCO) was established by the Housing and Environment Department of the Government of Madhya Pradesh in 1981, its foundation stone was laid by Smt. Indira Gandhi, in the 50 acre "Paryavaran Parisar".

Over the years, EPCO has steadily grown to become the State's premier organization in the field of environment related matters. It has worked closely with the State Government on various projects; yet it has established its own identity as an autonomous organization. It is a think-tank for environmental matters, but is also project oriented.