Raipur. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) is opening new avenues of shelter, security and dignity for thousands of needy families in Chhattisgarh. In this context, Mr. Ramesh Kumar Khatkar, a resident of Gram Panchayat Mehndi under Janpad Panchayat Pamgarh of Janjgir-Champa district, has also directly benefited from the scheme.
Mr. Ramesh Kumar Khatkar belongs to a simple farmer family. Amidst limited income, uncertain farming and daily needs, his family was forced to live in a mud house for a long time. Leaking roofs during the rainy season and uncomfortable housing during the hot summers and harsh winters caused hardship and worry for the family.

Despite financial challenges, Mr. Khatkar didn't give up. Confident in the government's public welfare schemes, he applied for and received approval for ₹120,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) in the 2024-25 fiscal year. With this assistance, his permanent house was completed.

Not only housing, but other government schemes have also significantly improved their living standards. A wage of ₹21,800 under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provided employment and income support. A toilet constructed under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Rural) provided the family with cleanliness and dignity. Furthermore, a gas connection under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PM Ujjwala Yojana) freed the family from smoke and made the kitchen safe and hygienic.

Today, Mr. Ramesh Kumar Khatkar's home symbolizes not just solid walls and a roof, but a new beginning of security, dignity, and self-confidence. His experience demonstrates that if resolve is strong and the benefits of government programs are reaped in a timely manner, even difficult circumstances can transform and pave the way for success.

Raipur. The Government of India's Jal Jeevan Mission has made life easier for people in rural areas. Under the "Har Ghar Nal, Har Ghar Jal" scheme, tap water is now available in every home, eliminating the need for rural families to search for clean drinking water. Previously, villagers had to travel long distances to fetch water. This was especially difficult for elderly women. Fetching water required both time and effort, disrupting other household chores and impacting health. The
Jal Jeevan Mission was launched to address these challenges. The objective of this scheme is not just to provide water, but to make rural life easier and more respectable. Today, thousands of families in the district are receiving clean drinking water through this scheme. 

Sato Baiga, a resident of Khamhi Gram Panchayat in the Pandariya development block of Kabirdham district, has also benefited greatly from this scheme. She explains that previously, she had to endure a lot of trouble fetching water. As she aged, this task became even more difficult.
Sato Baiga explained that previously, cooking, maintaining cleanliness, and arranging water for her animals were major challenges. The difficulties became even worse during the summer and rainy seasons. But now, with tap water in her home, all these problems have been eliminated.

Now, clean water is available at her home at all times. She doesn't have to travel far or depend on anyone for water. This has boosted her self-confidence and improved her health. She says she now has free time, which she can use for her home and leisure. Sato Baiga says that the Jal Jeevan Mission has not only provided her with water, but also given her a life of peace and dignity. Her daily worries about water have now completely disappeared.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai on Wednesday announced an increase in the installment of dearness allowance given in the pay scale of government officers and employees and said that this increase is an effort to provide relief to our officers and employees from rising inflation and to respect their hard work and dedication.

He said that Chhattisgarh's administrative system is the backbone of our governance system, and we are working with full commitment for their welfare. From January 1, 2026, dearness allowance has been increased from 55% to 58% in the seventh pay scale and from 252% to 257% in the sixth pay scale.

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00 Kumudni of Ajirama found a safe home, a respectable change in her life.
Surguja. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has emerged as a ray of hope for thousands of needy families in rural Chhattisgarh. This ambitious scheme, being rapidly implemented in the state, has begun to transform the lives of those families who, until now, lived in mud houses, facing the ravages of the weather and insecurity.

Mrs. Kumudni of Ajirama village panchayat in the Ambikapur development block of Surguja district has also benefited from this scheme. Her new pucca house has been completed, bringing relief to her family. Previously, she lived in a mud house, facing many difficulties during summer, winter, and rain. Mrs. Kumudni explained that due to financial constraints, building a pucca house was impossible. However, the incentive received under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin made her dream come true. Using government assistance and her own savings, she built a safe, strong, and dignified home for her family.

Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, he said that this scheme is truly transforming the lives of poor families. With the provision of a permanent home, his family is now safe in all weather conditions and has also gained social respect. It
is noteworthy that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin, the Chhattisgarh government is providing permanent housing to homeless families, villagers living in kutcha huts, and priority category beneficiaries. The effective implementation of the scheme has enabled thousands of families in various districts of the state to live in permanent homes, leading to a significant transformation in rural life, self-confidence, and standard of living.

Bilaspur. A single bench of the Chhattisgarh High Court rejected the anticipatory bail plea of ​​accused Soumya Chaurasia in the highly controversial liquor scam case. The court delivered its decision after hearing arguments from both sides. During the hearing, Soumya Chaurasia requested protection from arrest. The ACB and EOW strongly opposed the plea. Considering the facts and arguments presented, the court refused to grant anticipatory bail.
It was reported that on December 16th, the Enforcement Directorate summoned Soumya Chaurasia for questioning. She was arrested that evening. She will now appear in court on Wednesday. The Enforcement Directorate has filed an FIR with the ACB in this case, alleging a liquor scam worth over ₹2,000 crore. The investigating agency claims that the scam was perpetrated during the tenure of the then Bhupesh Baghel government through an alleged syndicate comprising IAS officer Anil Tuteja, MD of the Excise Department AP Tripathi, and businessman Anwar Dhebar.

00 Concrete initiatives are being taken for transparent examinations.
Raipur. The Higher Education Department is currently conducting recruitment for various positions. According to information received from the Higher Education Department, advertisements were issued for direct recruitment to 880 different positions in the department. These include 430 laboratory attendant positions, 210 peons, 210 watchmen, and 30 sweeper positions. The recruitment process is being conducted in accordance with established rules and guidelines.
The Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board has conducted recruitment examinations for 430 laboratory attendant positions and released a provisional list. Document verification of selected candidates is being carried out rapidly at the Directorate. Vyapam has been entrusted with the responsibility of conducting examinations for direct recruitment to other positions such as peon, watchman, and sweeper. Vyapam has also received consent to provide error-free digital data of the received applications to Vyapam. The data for all applications has been transferred to the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board.

The department has already provided the syllabus, exam format, and other necessary details related to the exam to Vyapam, and candidates have been informed of this from time to time. Based on this information, Vyapam is preparing for the upcoming exam.
The date of the recruitment exam for these posts, admit cards, and other necessary information will be issued by the Chhattisgarh Professional Examination Board and disseminated by the department through notice boards and other media.

Raipur:  The "Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme," launched in Khairagarh district to promote solar energy, is bringing positive change to rural areas. This scheme provides relief to residents from rising electricity bills and also empowers them with energy self-reliance.

In this context, Chintaram Kanwar, a teacher from the village of Sandongari in the Khairagarh development block, has emerged as an inspiring example for the villagers. By installing a 3-kilowatt solar plant on the roof of his residence, he has proven that solar energy is the most affordable, clean, and sustainable energy of the future.

Chintaram Kanwar said he learned about this scheme through a public relations campaign run by the Electricity Department. Upon learning of the scheme, he immediately registered, and within just one month, the solar plant was installed at his home. Under this project, he will receive a total subsidy of ₹108,000 from the central and state governments.

They said that the substantial government subsidy and easy monthly installment (EMI) facility has significantly reduced their financial burden. Currently, they are not only enjoying the benefits of free electricity but are also actively contributing to environmental protection.

Inspired by this initiative of Chintaram Kanwar, other villagers of the district are also moving towards adopting solar energy, due to which a strong step towards green energy is being seen in the district.

Raipur : Scouting is a way of life that teaches a person to be self-reliant even in difficult circumstances, to work with team spirit, and to remain dedicated to society. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said this while addressing as the chief guest at the grand closing ceremony of the first National Rover-Ranger Jamboree held in village Dudhli of Balod district today.

Chief Minister Shri Sai warmly welcomed the Rover-Rangers and Scout-Guides from various states of the country to Chhattisgarh, the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram and the place of penance of Mother Shabari, and wished them a bright future. He said that this Jamboree is not just an event, but a vibrant celebration of India's unity in diversity.

National Jamboree becomes a living glimpse of 'One India, Best India'

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the National Rover-Ranger Jamboree of this scale being held for the first time in the country and Chhattisgarh's selection for it is a matter of pride for the entire state. This event embodies Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat." He said that Rover-Rangers from various states impressively showcased India's rich diversity through cultural presentations, tableaux, and activities.

Youth are the future of the nation, Scouting gives leadership power

Addressing the youth, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that youth are the future of the state and the country. Citing Swami Vivekananda's inspiring quote – "Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached," he urged the youth to move forward with confidence and determination.

He said that the values ​​like discipline, service, leadership and teamwork taught by the Scout-Guide organization prepare the youth for nation building. The Chief Minister, while praising the service work done by the Scout-Guides during the Corona period, said that they played an important role in keeping the society aware and safe. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also administered the oath to the youth present under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 'Child Marriage Free India Campaign'.

Raipur : Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai today performed the ground breaking ceremony and inauguration of 103 development works worth Rs 233 crore at Gunderdehi, the Nagar Panchayat headquarters in Balod district. This included the ground breaking ceremony of 61 works worth Rs 163.88 crore and the inauguration of 42 works worth Rs 69.82 crore. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai also announced Rs 1 crore for a fully equipped community hall in Gunderdehi and Rs 1 crore for development works in each ward.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the development projects inaugurated and foundation stones laid today are not just buildings, but new doors of opportunity. He said that the commercial complex, being built at a cost of ₹1 crore, will provide new opportunities for self-employment and business for the youth, while the construction of roads, bridges, and infrastructure will facilitate transportation and boost economic activity.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central and State governments are committed to the inclusive development of all sections of society. The Mahtari Vandan Yojana is providing economic support to women, the highest support price is being provided to tendu leaf collectors, and the relaunching of the Charan Paduka Yojana is providing relief to tribal workers. Value addition to forest produce is also encouraging local employment generation. He added that the Ram Lalla Darshan Yojana is connecting the public with the country's culture and heritage. An effective rehabilitation policy is bringing peace to Naxal-affected areas and sparking new development in the Bastar region. Infrastructure such as roads, health, education, and communication are rapidly expanding.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that National Youth Day is being celebrated today on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti. Swami Vivekananda's thoughts still inspire youth to self-confidence, national service, and self-reliance. He said that Chhattisgarh is celebrating its silver jubilee this year, and the construction of the Digital Tribal Museum in Raipur is a special gift from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on this occasion, preserving the glorious stories of tribal heroes. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the state government is working with full commitment to take Chhattisgarh to new heights of development.

Speaking on the occasion, MP Shri Bhojraj Nag said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Chhattisgarh is rapidly advancing towards new heights of development. He said that Bastar, once known for its Red Terror, is now moving forward on the path of peace, progress, and prosperity, and this will directly benefit the common citizens.

At the event, Chief Minister Sai was greeted by local traders by weighing him with laddus. He distributed goods and certificates to eligible beneficiaries under various departmental schemes. Collector Ms. Divya Umesh Mishra presented the district's progress report, while Nagar Panchayat President Mr. Pramod Jain outlined the city's development needs in his welcome address.

Many public representatives, senior administrative and police officers and a large number of citizens were present on this occasion.

Jashpurnagar . Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, the paddy procurement process in Jashpur district is being conducted in a systematic, transparent, and smooth manner. Farmers are continuously arriving at various procurement centers in the district to procure paddy at the support price under the 2025-26 Kharif marketing year. The positive impact of the government's farmer-friendly policies and effective management system is now clearly visible on the ground.

Mohammad Aziz, a farmer from Lodhma village, who came to sell his produce at the paddy procurement center in Mahua Toli, Kunkuri, said that the process of selling paddy at the center was very simple and convenient. He said that through the online token system, he received his token on time without any hassle. From the issuance of slips to the weighing process, everything went smoothly and systematically. Clean and sufficient gunny bags were provided at the center, and the weighing process was completely transparent.

Farmer Aziz explained that the online token system is now providing significant convenience to farmers, saving time and eliminating unnecessary waiting. He praised the government's arrangements and expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai. He said that purchasing paddy at the support price is ensuring farmers receive a fair price for their hard work, which has not only boosted their confidence but also given them a sense of respect and security.

Raipur: Taking strict action against the violation of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, the Chhattisgarh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (CG RERA) has imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on two landowners of Raipur, Shri Govardhan and Shri Ramanuj.

The Authority learned that the two landowners were developing a plot named Om Farm, Lakholi Railway Station, and were advertising, promoting, and selling the property without valid RERA registration. This activity is a clear violation of Section 3 of the Act. According to Section 3, it is strictly prohibited to advertise, book, or offer sales invitations for any real estate project without RERA registration.

Taking strict action against violations of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, the authority has issued a warning stating that any plotting, advertising, or sale without registration will be considered a serious legal offense. Furthermore, more stringent legal action will be taken in such cases in the future.

After investigating the matter, examining documents, and conducting a hearing, the authority concluded that the individuals involved had violated the law. Consequently, CG RERA imposed a total penalty of ₹5 lakh on both landowners.

Raipur. Strengthening road infrastructure in central Chhattisgarh, the four-lane upgradation of the Raipur-Kodebod section of National Highway 30 has been successfully completed. Implemented by the National Highways Authority of India under the National Highway Development Programme, the 33.2-kilometer project transforms a long-stressed two-lane road into a modern four-lane divided highway, significantly improving connectivity and travel efficiency between Raipur, Dhamtari, and surrounding hinterland.
Approved in September 2016, the ₹987.88 crore project spans from kilometer 10,200 to 43,400 of National Highway 30 and strengthens passenger traffic, as well as agricultural logistics and regional freight transportation. Challenges related to material supply and inter-ministerial coordination were encountered during construction. The availability of fly ash and pond ash required for embankment construction—which was being procured from the Sipat and Lara units of the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited—was affected from time to time due to regulatory interpretations and coordination requirements, impacting the work sequence.

Meanwhile, a case arose regarding 0.256 hectares of land in Boriyakala village, Raipur district, which was later identified as Defence Research and Development Organisation land. Work on this plot required formal transfer and work authorization from the Ministry of Defence. Despite its limited size, the site was strategically important, and the halt in work there would have impacted the continuity of the entire corridor.

Following a review of the project under the Proactive Governance and Timely Implementation platform in February 2023, emphasis was placed on expediting the resolution of pending land and material supply issues. Close coordination between central government ministries and the Chhattisgarh government, combined with joint action by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Power, Ministry of Defence, National Thermal Power Corporation Limited, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and the state government, stabilized fly ash supplies and resolved defense land issues through evaluation, approval, and work permitting. Following the removal of these obstacles, construction progressed rapidly, and the project achieved 100% physical progress and commenced operations on June 20, 2023. The upgraded highway was formally dedicated to the nation with the issuance of the provisional completion certificate by the authorized engineer.

The project's operation has resulted in a 30-40 percent increase in average vehicle speed, a nearly 50 percent reduction in travel time, and a significant drop in fuel consumption and vehicle operating costs. The route between Raipur—Chhattisgarh's administrative and commercial hub—and Dhamtari district, with a population of approximately 800,000, has now emerged as a strong economic hub, benefiting over 4.5-5 million people in the surrounding districts. The movement of paddy, forest produce, cement, steel, and construction materials has been facilitated; farmers, traders, and transporters have improved access to mandis, rice mills, and urban markets. Approximately 3,000-4,000 direct and indirect jobs were created during the construction period, while after its operation, the route continues to support dhabas, fuel stations, transportation services, and logistics-based micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Overall, the Raipur-Kodebod four-lane project demonstrates that high-level monitoring and effective coordination can ensure timely completion of complex infrastructure projects. This highway has now established itself as a key cornerstone of long-term mobility and economic development for Chhattisgarh.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda by offering flowers to his portrait at the Chief Minister's residence on the occasion of his birth anniversary today. He extended his heartfelt greetings to the youth of the state on National Youth Day. He stated that Swami Vivekananda's life and thoughts continue to be the greatest source of energy, direction, and self-confidence for India's youth.
Chief Minister Sai stated that Swami Vivekananda instilled in the youth the belief that they are the architects of their own future. His thoughts inspired them to make service, self-confidence, and patriotism their life's purpose. Today, as India moves toward the Amritkaal, Vivekananda's teachings guide young people to become responsible, self-reliant, and nationally conscious citizens. He stated that it is a matter of pride for Chhattisgarh that Swami Vivekananda's life was also connected to Raipur. His time spent here gives a special identity to the state's cultural consciousness and ideological tradition.

Chief Minister Sai expressed confidence that the thoughts of Swami Vivekananda will continue to inspire the coming generations and the youth of the entire country including Chhattisgarh will play a leading role in serving the society, nation and humanity by adopting his ideals.

00 Initiative to empower farmers and producer organizations and promote agricultural exports of Chhattisgarh
Raipur. In a significant step towards establishing Chhattisgarh as a major hub for export of agricultural and processed food products, the regional office of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was inaugurated in Raipur. This inauguration took place during the 2nd India International Rice Summit held in Chhattisgarh. The program was attended by Health and Family Welfare Minister and Medical Education Minister of Chhattisgarh Government, Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal and other dignitaries.

Chhattisgarh, endowed with a rich and diverse agro-ecosystem, has vast export potential for a number of products. These include high-quality non-basmati rice varieties and Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products such as Jeera Phool rice and Nagri Dubaraaj rice. Furthermore, the state produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, including guava, banana, dragon fruit, jackfruit, custard apple, tomato, and cucumber, as well as important minor forest produce such as mahua, tamarind, medicinal, and herbal plants, which offer strong opportunities to expand the state's presence in global markets

The establishment of APEDA's regional office in Raipur is a significant milestone for Chhattisgarh's agricultural economy. This office will provide farmers, producer groups, cooperatives, and exporters with services such as export registration, consulting services, market intelligence, certification assistance, export facilitation, infrastructure development, and market linkages. Recently, the Raipur-based APEDA regional office successfully facilitated the export of fortified rice kernels from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica and Papua New Guinea.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that the inauguration of the APEDA Regional Office in Raipur is a mission to connect Chhattisgarh's farmers with the global economy. He highlighted the immense potential for the state's farmers, exporters, and entrepreneurs in global agricultural markets and expressed confidence that Chhattisgarh will emerge as a leading state in high-value and sustainable agricultural exports. He thanked Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal for approving the establishment of the APEDA office in Chhattisgarh at the state government's request and assured APEDA and the Commerce Department of full support in expanding the export of agricultural and organic products from the state.
The inauguration of the APEDA Regional Office took place during the second edition of the India International Rice Summit, organized by the Chhattisgarh Rice Exporters Association in collaboration with APEDA and other organizations. The two-day "Chintan Shivir" on rice exports also concluded on the same occasion, with sessions focusing on measures to promote the export of organic rice and non-basmati rice, especially GI-tagged rice varieties.

Raipur. Strengthening road infrastructure in central Chhattisgarh, the four-lane upgradation of the Raipur-Kodebod section of National Highway 30 has been successfully completed. Implemented by the National Highways Authority of India under the National Highway Development Programme, the 33.2-kilometer project transforms a long-stressed two-lane road into a modern four-lane divided highway, significantly improving connectivity and travel efficiency between Raipur, Dhamtari, and surrounding hinterland.
Approved in September 2016, the ₹987.88 crore project spans from kilometer 10,200 to 43,400 of National Highway 30 and strengthens passenger traffic, as well as agricultural logistics and regional freight transportation. Challenges related to material supply and inter-ministerial coordination were encountered during construction. The availability of fly ash and pond ash required for embankment construction—which was being procured from the Sipat and Lara units of the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited—was affected from time to time due to regulatory interpretations and coordination requirements, impacting the work sequence.

Meanwhile, a case arose regarding 0.256 hectares of land in Boriyakala village, Raipur district, which was later identified as Defence Research and Development Organisation land. Work on this plot required formal transfer and work authorization from the Ministry of Defence. Despite its limited size, the site was strategically important, and the halt in work there would have impacted the continuity of the entire corridor.

Following a review of the project under the Proactive Governance and Timely Implementation platform in February 2023, emphasis was placed on expediting the resolution of pending land and material supply issues. Close coordination between central government ministries and the Chhattisgarh government, combined with joint action by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Power, Ministry of Defence, National Thermal Power Corporation Limited, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and the state government, stabilized fly ash supplies and resolved defense land issues through evaluation, approval, and work permitting. Following the removal of these obstacles, construction progressed rapidly, and the project achieved 100% physical progress and commenced operations on June 20, 2023. The upgraded highway was formally dedicated to the nation with the issuance of the provisional completion certificate by the authorized engineer.

The project's operation has resulted in a 30-40 percent increase in average vehicle speed, a nearly 50 percent reduction in travel time, and a significant drop in fuel consumption and vehicle operating costs. The route between Raipur—Chhattisgarh's administrative and commercial hub—and Dhamtari district, with a population of approximately 800,000, has now emerged as a strong economic hub, benefiting over 4.5-5 million people in the surrounding districts. The movement of paddy, forest produce, cement, steel, and construction materials has been facilitated; farmers, traders, and transporters have improved access to mandis, rice mills, and urban markets. Approximately 3,000-4,000 direct and indirect jobs were created during the construction period, while after its operation, the route continues to support dhabas, fuel stations, transportation services, and logistics-based micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Overall, the Raipur-Kodebod four-lane project demonstrates that high-level monitoring and effective coordination can ensure timely completion of complex infrastructure projects. This highway has now established itself as a key cornerstone of long-term mobility and economic development for Chhattisgarh.