*Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai expressed deep grief over the Bhandara road accident*

*On the instructions of the Chief Minister, a team of officials left to help the injured and affected families*

Raipur, September 11, 2026/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has expressed deep condolences on the untimely demise of the citizens of Chhattisgarh in the horrific road accident on Nagpur-Raipur National Highway in Bhandara district of Maharashtra.

Chief Minister Shri Sai paid tribute to the departed souls and expressed condolences to the bereaved families.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai stated that constant coordination is being maintained with the Maharashtra government and the local administration. He added that a team of officials from Chhattisgarh has been dispatched to the site to ensure proper treatment of the injured and provide necessary assistance to the affected families. The Chhattisgarh government stands with the affected families during this difficult time and will provide them with all possible assistance.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao gave strict instructions in the review meeting, action will be taken if there is no progress in the work

The impact of development works and implementation of schemes should be visible on the ground – Shri Arun Saw

Reviewed the works of Public Works, Public Health Engineering, Urban Administration, Sports and Youth Welfare Departments

Raipur, September 2026. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao held a meeting with district-level officials of the Public Works, Public Health Engineering, Urban Administration and Development, and Sports and Youth Welfare departments in Dantewada today, reviewing the work and issuing necessary instructions. He reviewed in detail the progress of approved, ongoing, and proposed works of all four departments and directed them to complete the work within the time limit, ensure quality, and effectively deliver the benefits of the schemes to the citizens.

Mr. Saw directed officials and construction agencies that no compromises would be tolerated on quality and timelines for development projects. He directed officials to change their work style and work culture and focus on results-oriented work. Collector Mr. Devesh Dhruv was also present at the review meeting.

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Saw said in the meeting that all construction agencies, including the Public Works Department, should pay special attention to the quality of roads, buildings, bridges, and other construction work. It is the responsibility of officials to ensure completion of work within the stipulated timeframe. Any unnecessary delays will result in accountability and action. He directed that all government offices and premises be kept clean, organized, and citizen-friendly.

The Deputy Chief Minister directed to expedite the construction of houses being built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) and to complete those under construction soon. He called for the transfer of completed Jal Jeevan Mission projects to Gram Panchayats for operation. He directed the speedy completion of ongoing tap water schemes and the payment of pending bills to contractors and related agencies. He urged for better coordination with the Panchayat and Rural Development Department to ensure the effective operation of water supply schemes.

Mr. Saw instructed to expedite all construction works immediately after the end of the monsoons. He said that the instructions given in today's review meeting should be followed seriously. All officers should discharge their duties with utmost seriousness, activity and accountability. The impact of the implementation of development works and schemes should be visible on the ground. Divisional Forest Officer Mr. Ramakrishna Ranganatha Y. and Additional Collector Mr. Rajesh Patre along with officials from Bastar Divisional Office and Dantewada District Office of Public Works, Public Health Engineering, Urban Administration and Development and Sports and Youth Welfare Department were present in the meeting.

Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal handed over the 'Key to Happiness' to the beneficiaries at Gorta in Lakhanpur.

In Surguja district, house warming ceremony was held under PM Awas, PM Janman and Chief Minister Awas.

Raipur, September 2026. An atmosphere of joy prevailed in the village panchayat Gorta of the aspirational development block Lakhanpur today, when the beneficiaries formally took possession of the pucca houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin. Chhattisgarh Government's Tourism Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal attended the program as the chief guest and handed over the keys of their new homes to the beneficiary families and wished them a happy and safe married life. On this occasion, Minister Shri Agrawal performed the Griha Pravesh ceremony by performing a ritualistic puja and cutting the ribbon and symbolically handed over the 'key to happiness' to the beneficiaries.

The joy and satisfaction on the faces of the beneficiary families was evident as their dream of a permanent home was realized. For families who had long awaited secure and permanent housing, this day brought renewed hope, dignity, stability, and confidence.

Minister hands over 'Key to Happiness', smiles blossom on families' faces

During the housewarming ceremony, Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal handed over the keys to the newly constructed pucca house to beneficiary Jugendra Rajwade and his wife Phulmati. As the family received the keys to their new home, their faces lit up with joy. The beneficiary family expressed their gratitude to the government and administration for receiving a pucca house under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

In the same sequence, Minister Shri Agarwal also presented the "Key to Happiness" to other beneficiaries, including Jogendra Rajwade, Chhiharo, and Santosh, along with other families. Congratulating the beneficiaries on their new homes, he said that a permanent home is not just the construction of four walls, but a strong foundation for a family's secure future, respect, and a permanent home.

Beneficiaries were motivated to complete the incomplete houses soon.

During the program, Tourism Minister Mr. Rajesh Agrawal also interacted with the villagers. He encouraged the beneficiaries to expedite the completion of the remaining houses approved under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Officials discussed with the beneficiaries, inquired about the progress of house construction, and directed them to complete the incomplete houses within the stipulated timeframe.

The program was attended by President of Janpad Panchayat Lakhanpur, Smt. Shashikala Singh, Vice President Shri Kameshwar Rajwade, Sarpanch and Panch of Gram Panchayat, Chief Executive Officer of Janpad Panchayat Smt. Khushboo Shastri, officers and employees of various departments, ABP Fellows and a large number of villagers.

The resolution of 'permanent house for every eligible family' is gaining momentum.

The objective of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin is to provide permanent and safe housing to eligible rural families who do not own a permanent home. Through the scheme, continuous efforts are being made to provide rural families with a dignified life, improved housing facilities, and a secure future.

The housewarming ceremony held in the village of Gorta showcased the practical impact of this commitment. As beneficiary families moved into their new homes, an atmosphere of excitement and joy pervaded the entire village.

The joy of housewarming resonated simultaneously in 5,596 houses.

In Surguja district, house warming ceremonies were held today for a total of 5,596 houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), the Prime Minister's Tribal Justice Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), and the Chief Minister's Housing Scheme-Gramin (MMAY-G). These include 4,967 houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin, 398 under the PM Janman Yojana, and 231 under the Chief Minister's Housing Scheme-Gramin.

Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Rajesh Agarwal welcomed the newly admitted students and wished them a bright future.

Calls upon students to connect education with social and national service

Raipur, September 2026. A 'Diksharambh Program' was organized on Friday for the newly admitted students of the session 2026-27 at the Government Naveen Mahavidyalaya Lakhanpur. Honorable Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal attended the program and encouraged the newly admitted students and wished them a bright future. The enthusiasm and excitement among the students for the new academic session was visible in the program organized in the college campus. During the program, the students were welcomed and best wishes were given to them for the new journey of college life. Minister Shri Agrawal interacted with the students, encouraged them and welcomed the newly admitted students.

Addressing the students, Minister Shri Rajesh Agarwal said that college admission marks the beginning of an important phase in life. Students should not limit this opportunity to studies and exams, but rather use it to develop their personality, knowledge, and abilities. He said that today's students will determine the future direction of society and the country. Therefore, students should remain serious about their goals and incorporate discipline, hard work, and positive thinking into their lives.

He said that the true purpose of education is not merely to obtain a degree, but to develop knowledge, values, and a sense of responsibility. College life provides students with the opportunity to recognize and realize their dreams. He urged students to continue learning in their areas of interest, embrace new challenges as opportunities, and strive to bring glory to their parents, teachers, and region.

Mr. Agarwal stated that there is no shortage of talent among students from rural and small towns. All that is needed is proper guidance and continued effort. He assured the students that continuous efforts are being made at the government level to provide a better educational environment. He urged the students to actively participate in cultural, sports, literary, and social activities in addition to the academic activities available at the college.

Communicated with students

During the program, Minister Shri Agarwal interacted with the students. He inquired about their interests and future goals and encouraged them to move forward. The students also participated enthusiastically in the program.

traditional welcome

The initiation ceremony began in a dignified atmosphere. Guests were welcomed on stage. Organized for newly admitted students, this program followed the tradition of welcoming and greeting them, introducing them to college life. Students were welcomed with tilak and a bouquet of flowers, and best wishes were extended for their new academic journey.

The enthusiasm of new students

A large number of newly admitted students attended the convocation ceremony. Students participated enthusiastically. This event provided the new students with an opportunity to acclimate to the college environment, become acquainted with their teachers and classmates, and begin their new academic career with confidence.

Raipur. Central government employees and pensioners have raised hopes regarding the 8th Pay Commission. Employee organizations have demanded a 3.83 fitment factor and a minimum basic salary of ₹69,000.

Currently, the minimum basic salary for central government employees is 18,000 rupees. According to the organization's proposal, if a 3.83 fitment factor is applied, the basic salary of 18,000 rupees could increase to approximately 69,000 rupees. This means a difference of approximately 51,000 rupees.

But the biggest question here is whether the government will approve the 3.83 fitment factor. There could be a significant difference between the demands of employee unions and the government's final decision. During the 7th Pay Commission, employee unions had demanded a 3.71 fitment factor, but the final fitment factor was 2.57.

For this reason, it's premature to consider 3.83 as a potential new salary. Experts also suggest a fitment factor of around 2.06 to 2.10, depending on different circumstances.

Even with a lower fitment factor, employees' salaries may increase. However, the actual benefits will only be clear after the recommendations of the new Pay Commission and the government's final decision.

Employee unions are citing inflation and rising family expenses as the reason for their significant demand. They argue that the current minimum basic salary of ₹18,000 makes it difficult to meet family needs today.

What is fitment factor?

The fitment factor is the multiplier used to convert the basic salary of the old pay structure into the new pay structure. For example, multiplying a basic salary of ₹18,000 by 3.83 gives ₹68,994, or approximately ₹69,000.

The basic salary of ₹69,000 has not yet been finalized. This figure is based on demands from employee unions.

Raipur. Family and party politics are once again in the news in Chhattisgarh. Dhal Das, the elder brother of Minister Khushwant Sahib and the eldest son of Guru Baldas, a prominent religious leader of the Satnami community, has joined the Congress party.

He joined the Congress party at a ceremony held at the residence of former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel in Raipur. Baghel welcomed Dhal Das into the party by presenting him with a Congress scarf.

Dhal Das's entry into the Congress party has sparked heated discussions in the state's politics, not only because of his political background but also because of his social connections.

Guru Baldas is considered influential in the Satnami community, while his younger brother, Khushwant Sahib, is currently a minister in the BJP government. Therefore, the senior member of the family joining the Congress party is considered a politically significant development.

Now it remains to be seen how much impact Dhal Das's entry into Congress will have on the Satnami community and the politics of the state.

There could be a significant difference between the demands of employee unions and the government's final decision. During the 7th Pay Commission, employee unions had demanded a 3.71 fitment factor, but the final fitment factor was 2.57.

For this reason, it's premature to consider 3.83 as a potential new salary. Experts also suggest a fitment factor of around 2.06 to 2.10, depending on different circumstances.

Even with a lower fitment factor, employees' salaries may increase. However, the actual benefits will only be clear after the recommendations of the new Pay Commission and the government's final decision.

Employee unions are citing inflation and rising family expenses as the reason for their significant demand. They argue that the current minimum basic salary of ₹18,000 makes it difficult to meet family needs today.

What is fitment factor?

The fitment factor is the multiplier used to convert the basic salary of the old pay structure into the new pay structure. For example, multiplying a basic salary of ₹18,000 by 3.83 gives ₹68,994, or approximately ₹69,000.

The basic salary of ₹69,000 has not yet been finalized. This figure is based on demands from employee unions.

Raipur. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who arrived in Raipur, launched a scathing attack on the previous Congress government in Chhattisgarh. Speaking to the media, he targeted former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel by calling him "Kaka" without naming him, alleging that "Kaka and the Congress together destroyed Chhattisgarh."

Shivraj said that the pace of development in the state has accelerated since the BJP government came to power. He also mentioned the housing approved for the poor, stating that more than 365,000 houses have been approved.

According to the Union Minister, approximately 1,600 houses are being completed daily in Chhattisgarh. He also detailed rural development projects and road approvals.

Shivraj also attacked the Congress party over the singing of two verses of Vande Mataram in Karnataka. He questioned the Karnataka government's decision, calling it an insult to Mother India.

Shivraj also hit back at Congress's questions about the BRICS summit. He said that when India's respect in the world increases, Congress gets a stomachache.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years of service, Shivraj said that under his leadership the self-respect of the country has increased and India is moving forward on the path of becoming a world leader.

14th India Industrial Fair to be held in Raipur from September 18 to 20

MSME, startups, investment, employment and innovation will get a common platform

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai along with distinguished guests from the country and state will be present.

Raipur, September 2026/ Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, will host key industry representatives, entrepreneurs, investors, and youth from across the country from September 18th to 20th. The 14th India Industrial Fair 2026 is being held at the Science College Open Ground. Organized by Laghu Udyog Bharti, the three-day fair will provide the state's MSMEs, startups, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and youth with the opportunity to connect with industrialists, buyers, and investors from across the country.

This event will not be limited to just an exhibition of industrial products, but will be a comprehensive industrial event bringing together trade, investment, employment, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. The fair will feature product and technology exhibitions, B2B meetings, investor interactions, job placement drives, motivational sessions by experts, and cultural programs.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and other special guests will be present.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai will attend the inaugural ceremony of the India Industrial Fair as the chief guest. Industry Minister Shri Lakhanlal Dewangan and other distinguished guests will also be present. Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnav and senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader and prominent thinker Shri Krishna Gopal are also expected to attend. The presence of national-level policymakers, industry representatives, entrepreneurs, and investors is expected to provide new impetus to Chhattisgarh's industrial development and investment potential.

Efforts to connect local entrepreneurs with the national market

Chhattisgarh's mineral wealth, agricultural and forest products, energy resources, and growing industrial base offer immense industrial potential. However, access to large markets, new buyers, technical support, and investment are often challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises. The India Industrial Fair will provide a platform to transform these challenges into opportunities. Entrepreneurs from the state will have the opportunity to interact directly with industrialists, buyers, distributors, investors, and business representatives from various states. This will strengthen access to new markets and the potential for business partnerships.

B2B meetings will create new business relationships

Entrepreneurs from across the country will showcase their products, machinery, technology, and services at the fair. Through B2B meetings, manufacturers, distributors, dealers, suppliers, buyers, and investors will be able to interact directly. This initiative aims to not only provide local entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their products but also to provide them with new buyers, business partners, and market expansion opportunities.

Youth will get employment opportunities through Job Placement Drive

This year, a major attraction of the fair will be the Job Placement Drive. Through this drive, efforts will be made to connect students from various universities and educational institutions in the state with industries and companies. This initiative is being undertaken to provide skilled human resources to industries and provide better employment opportunities to youth. Students will have the opportunity to interact directly with industry representatives, conduct interviews, and explore employment opportunities.

Startups and young entrepreneurs will get encouragement

The fair will provide special opportunities for startups and new-generation young entrepreneurs, along with traditional industries. Young entrepreneurs will be able to showcase their products and new business ideas, and connect with experienced industrialists, investors, and potential business partners. By addressing market, investment, technology, and guidance needs, this platform can play a vital role in expanding new ventures.

14th India Industrial Fair to be held in Raipur from September 18 to 20

MSME, startups, investment, employment and innovation will get a common platform

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai along with distinguished guests from the country and state will be present.

Raipur, September 2026/ Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, will host key industry representatives, entrepreneurs, investors, and youth from across the country from September 18th to 20th. The 14th India Industrial Fair 2026 is being held at the Science College Open Ground. Organized by Laghu Udyog Bharti, the three-day fair will provide the state's MSMEs, startups, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and youth with the opportunity to connect with industrialists, buyers, and investors from across the country.

This event will not be limited to just an exhibition of industrial products, but will be a comprehensive industrial event bringing together trade, investment, employment, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. The fair will feature product and technology exhibitions, B2B meetings, investor interactions, job placement drives, motivational sessions by experts, and cultural programs.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and other special guests will be present.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai will attend the inaugural ceremony of the India Industrial Fair as the chief guest. Industry Minister Shri Lakhanlal Dewangan and other distinguished guests will also be present. Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnav and senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader and prominent thinker Shri Krishna Gopal are also expected to attend. The presence of national-level policymakers, industry representatives, entrepreneurs, and investors is expected to provide new impetus to Chhattisgarh's industrial development and investment potential.

Efforts to connect local entrepreneurs with the national market

Chhattisgarh's mineral wealth, agricultural and forest products, energy resources, and growing industrial base offer immense industrial potential. However, access to large markets, new buyers, technical support, and investment are often challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises. The India Industrial Fair will provide a platform to transform these challenges into opportunities. Entrepreneurs from the state will have the opportunity to interact directly with industrialists, buyers, distributors, investors, and business representatives from various states. This will strengthen access to new markets and the potential for business partnerships.

B2B meetings will create new business relationships

Entrepreneurs from across the country will showcase their products, machinery, technology, and services at the fair. Through B2B meetings, manufacturers, distributors, dealers, suppliers, buyers, and investors will be able to interact directly. This initiative aims to not only provide local entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their products but also to provide them with new buyers, business partners, and market expansion opportunities.

Youth will get employment opportunities through Job Placement Drive

This year, a major attraction of the fair will be the Job Placement Drive. Through this drive, efforts will be made to connect students from various universities and educational institutions in the state with industries and companies. This initiative is being undertaken to provide skilled human resources to industries and provide better employment opportunities to youth. Students will have the opportunity to interact directly with industry representatives, conduct interviews, and explore employment opportunities.

Startups and young entrepreneurs will get encouragement

The fair will provide special opportunities for startups and new-generation young entrepreneurs, along with traditional industries. Young entrepreneurs will be able to showcase their products and new business ideas, and connect with experienced industrialists, investors, and potential business partners. By addressing market, investment, technology, and guidance needs, this platform can play a vital role in expanding new ventures.

Chancellor and Governor Shri Ramen Deka attended as the chief guest.

New Chhattisgarh will be created with women power and youth innovation - Governor Shri Ramen Deka

Raipur, September 2026/ Chhattisgarh University of Technology (CSVTU) Bhilai organized the "Women Empowerment, Entrepreneurship and Startup Felicitation Program" at the Bhilai Institute of Technology (BIT), Durg campus to promote women empowerment, self-employment, entrepreneurship, and startup culture. Chancellor and State Governor Ramen Deka distributed Millet Health Carts to 72 women self-help groups and Ignition Grants to 24 startups. Member of Parliament Vijay Baghel, Durg Rural MLA Lalit Chandrakar, Vaishali Nagar MLA Rakesh Sen, former Assembly Speaker Prem Prakash Pandey, Durg Mayor Alka Baghmar, and Sahakar Bharati's Kaliram Sharma also attended the event.

Higher education and technical knowledge are meaningful only when they create new employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Chief Guest Governor Shri Ramen Deka said that this event is a pledge to build a new Chhattisgarh through women empowerment, nutritional security and self-employment. He said that two important journeys are being launched here today. One will make our rural women economically self-reliant and encourage them to transform their dreams into enterprises through innovators. He said that higher education and technical knowledge are meaningful only when they connect with the real needs of the society and create new employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. The Governor said that millet is giving a new direction to women entrepreneurship.

When a woman becomes self-reliant, the family becomes stronger.

Millet, or coarse grains, has held special significance in Chhattisgarh's agricultural tradition. Today, the traditional "Shri Anna" (millet) is becoming a new source of income, not only for nutrition but also for farmers, rural families, and women entrepreneurs. Millet, besides being nutritionally important, also provides income opportunities for farmers, rural families, and women entrepreneurs. Women self-help group members will be provided with free millet health carts and comprehensive training in product manufacturing, FSSAI standards, quality control, business management, and marketing to develop them into capable business entities. Emphasizing this initiative to connect women self-help groups with self-reliance, the Governor explained that when a woman becomes self-reliant, her family becomes stronger and the entire community gains confidence.

Women Self-Help Groups gave a new impetus to economic activities in villages

Highlighting youth innovation, Governor Shri Deka said that 24 innovation-based startups are being awarded a total Ignition Grant of ₹50 lakh. Inspiring the youth, he said that failures are natural in the path of innovation, but learning from them and continuously moving forward is the hallmark of a successful entrepreneur. Chhattisgarh's women have traditionally been exemplars of labor, skill, and entrepreneurship. Women's self-help groups have given new impetus to economic activity in villages. Now, the need is to connect their traditional skills with modern training, technology, branding, and marketing.

CSVTU – A Strong Hub for Women's Self-Reliance and Technological Innovation

Governor Mr. Deka commended the Technical University's efforts to disseminate knowledge and resources to the last person in society. He expressed confidence that CSVTU-FORTE (Foundation for Rural Technology and Entrepreneurship) will become a strong center for rural entrepreneurship, women's self-reliance, and technological innovation in the future. He wished all the women SHG sisters and youth a bright future.

Chhattisgarh records largest single-cycle improvement in the history of groundwater resource assessment

There were 9 critical development blocks in 2020 and 5 in 2025, the number became zero in the year 2026.

Groundwater exploitation also declined for the first time, with annual groundwater recharge reaching an all-time high of 14.65 BCM.

Chhattisgarh has implemented Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's call of 'Jan Shakti to Jal Shakti' through public participation: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai

The Chief Minister gave credit for the achievement to the farmers and field staff.

Raipur, September 2026/ Chhattisgarh has achieved a historic milestone in the field of water conservation and groundwater management. Now, not a single development block in the state is in the 'critical' category for groundwater exploitation. This important fact has come to light in the Groundwater Resources Assessment-2026. In the year 2020, nine development blocks of the state were in the critical category, and even in the year 2025, five development blocks remained in this category. In the year 2026 assessment, all five development blocks have come out of the critical category.

Furthermore, in this assessment cycle, improvements have been recorded in the groundwater category of 12 development blocks of the state, while the situation has not deteriorated in a single development block. This is Chhattisgarh's largest single-cycle improvement since the start of block-wise groundwater assessment. The number of protected development blocks in the state has now increased to 127.

Groundwater Resources Assessment-2026, jointly prepared by the Central Ground Water Board and the State Groundwater Survey Board, has been approved by the State Level Groundwater Assessment and Management Committee.

The Chief Minister congratulated the people of the state on this historic achievement and expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that Prime Minister Modi's call for "Jal Shakti Se Jan Shakti" and his launch of the "Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari" campaign have given new direction and breadth to water conservation efforts in the state. With the participation of various government departments, the district administration, farmers, and ordinary citizens, water conservation efforts have now become a widespread public movement.

Public participation made the seemingly impossible goal possible: Chief Minister Shri Sai

Giving credit for this achievement to the farmers, citizens and field staff of the state, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that this result is not only the result of the government's policies, but also the result of public participation and collective resolve.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that this achievement was not made in Mahanadi Bhavan, but in the fields and villages. The greatest credit for this goes to the farmers of the state, including Bemetara and Rajnandgaon, who embraced changes in their farming practices to ensure water security for future generations. Our field staff also worked tirelessly with the farmers season after season. He added that, responding to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's call for "Jal Shakti Se Jal Shakti," Chhattisgarh has proven that public participation can bring about significant and lasting change in groundwater conservation.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan (Water Conservation and Public Participation) launched by Prime Minister Shri Modi provided a strong foundation for the entire government machinery to work towards a common goal. When the government's efforts to conserve water were combined with the participation of farmers and citizens, the result was this historic improvement in groundwater levels.

Groundwater recharge at a historic high of 14.65 BCM

According to the Groundwater Resources Assessment 2026, annual groundwater recharge in the state has increased to 14.65 billion cubic meters (BCM), the highest level ever. In 2017, the state's annual groundwater recharge was 11.57 BCM.

The widespread construction and revival of water conservation structures is having a direct impact on groundwater recharge. Compared to 2020, groundwater recharge from ponds and puddles has increased by 266.9 percent and recharge from other water conservation structures has increased by 202.8 percent.

Social and political organizations gave important suggestions

Raipur, September 2026/ The UCC Committee, constituted by the state government with the aim of making the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) practical, inclusive, and useful for the people in Chhattisgarh, has begun public consultations. In this connection, during a meeting in the District Panchayat meeting hall in Rajnandgaon, officials from various social and political organizations openly presented their suggestions on topics such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, maintenance, and live-in relationships before UCC Committee members retired IAS officer Mr. M.K. Raut, senior advocate Mr. Mohan Pawar, and retired principal Dr. Jyoti Rani Singh.

Highlights of the meeting

There was an in-depth discussion on many important aspects ranging from traditional social beliefs to modern legal reforms. Important suggestions were given both in favor and against the UCC. Representatives of various social and political organizations including all tribal communities, Buddhists, Jains, Muslims, Christians, Sahu, Kalar, Lodhi, Yadav, Christian community, Patel, Gadaria community and Sen community, President God community, social workers, Uraav community, officials of Maa Bamleshwari Trust Committee of Rajnandgaon, Kabirdham, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai and Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki districts participated in the meeting and presented their suggestions before the committee.

Various social organizations have suggested that under the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), there should be uniform laws for all citizens without any discrimination on the basis of religion, caste or gender in matters like marriage, divorce, child adoption and property inheritance.

Drafting process

Committee members stated that the final draft will be prepared based on all the suggestions received. Committee members stated that suggestions have been invited online from the general public. The legal advisor provided detailed information about the UCC through a PowerPoint presentation. Citizens can also submit their suggestions through the committee's official website: https://ucc.cgstate.gov.in/ and by email at ucc-chhattisgarh@cg.gov.in.

Divisional Commissioner Satyanarayan Rathore, Collector Jitendra Yadav, District Panchayat CEO Durga Prasad Adhikari and Additional Collector C.L. Markandeya along with other officials were present during the meeting.

Gratitude towards Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 25 years of public service and the resolve for a developed India-2047 will get a new expansion through public participation

Every section will be involved in innovative activities like 'Light of Blessings', 'India of the Dreams of 25 Crore Children', 'Namo Seva Gatha' and 'Story of Change'.

Raipur, September 2026. To express gratitude towards Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 25 years of public service and dedication and to give a public participation form to the collective resolve of Developed India-2047, 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' will be organised in GPM district from 17 September to 17 October 2026. Through this month-long campaign, special emphasis will be laid on disseminating information about the public welfare schemes of the Central and State Government to eligible citizens, providing them the benefits of the schemes and ensuring active participation of every family in the development process.

Collector Mr. Vijay Dayaram K., while reviewing the preparations for the campaign, directed the concerned officials to ensure better coordination between departments, a clear and timely action plan, and effective field implementation. Mr. Mukesh Raote, Chief Executive Officer of the District Panchayat, has been appointed the district nodal officer for the "Seva Sankalp Abhiyan."

The campaign will be launched with 'Aashirwad Ka Diya'.

The campaign will launch on September 17th with the "Aashirwad Ka Diya" program. In the evening, every family in the district will join the campaign by lighting a lamp. Each lamp will symbolize citizens' gratitude for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years of public service and their commitment to a developed India by 2047.

Field staff will go door-to-door to inform citizens about this initiative and encourage them to participate in the campaign by lighting lamps. The objective of this activity is to make the commitment to development a commitment for every person and every household, not just a government program.

A developed India will be seen in the imaginations of children

Under the "India of 250 million children's dreams" initiative, painting and speech competitions will be held in government and private schools across the district from September 17 to October 7. These competitions will provide students with the opportunity to creatively express their vision of a developed India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 25 years of service.

Participants who perform exceptionally well will be honored. Furthermore, the children's best artworks and their imaginations will be showcased to the public through an exhibition.

'Namo Seva Gatha' will reach the common people through street plays.

During the campaign, street theatre performances will be organized at various locations under the theme "Namo Seva Gatha" beginning September 17. Through these performances, stories about the government's public welfare schemes, their objectives, and the positive changes they have brought to people's lives will be conveyed to the public in an engaging and effective manner.

Through street plays, citizens will be motivated to avail the benefits of the schemes as per their eligibility, so that information about government schemes can reach the last mile.

Emphasis on nutrition and women-child welfare in 'Aangan Ka Utsav'

"Angan Ka Utsav" will be held at Anganwadi centers from September 25th to October 7th. During this event, beneficiaries will be provided with information about various schemes related to nutrition, maternal assistance, vaccination, and women and child welfare.

Anganwadi workers will also be honored during the events, highlighting their important role. This initiative will seek to connect women, children, and families with health and nutrition awareness.

'Kahani Badlaav Ki' will showcase real success stories.

During the campaign, the "Kahani Badlaav Ki" initiative will collect real-life success stories from beneficiaries of government schemes. These stories will illustrate how the impact of government schemes is bringing positive change to the lives of ordinary citizens.