Jashpurnagar : Final rehearsals were held today at the Ranjita Stadium in Jashpur, the district headquarters, to celebrate Republic Day with dignity on January 26th. Group parades, bands, gymnastic demonstrations, group dances, and cultural programs were presented.

Collector Rohit Vyas and SSP Shashi Mohan Singh attended today's final rehearsal. Deputy Collector Hariom Dwivedi was the chief guest. During the parade, everyone inspected the minute-to-minute preparations for the Republic Day celebrations. Led by Chief Parade Commander Reserve Inspector Amarjeet Khunte and 2IC Sub-Inspector Khomraj Thakur, the Chhattisgarh Armed Forces, District Police Force (male), District Police Force (female), City Army (male), City Army (female), NCC NES College (Hindi Medium), NCC Air Wing (Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya), NSS M.L.B.K. U.M.V. Jashpur, Saraswati Shishu Mandir School, Kalyan Ashram, St. Xavier's Shanti Bhavan, NSS NES College (Hindi Medium), Girls Sports Complex (Kisan Krida Parisar Jashpur), and 15 contingents of band groups conducted the final rehearsal parade for the Republic Day celebrations. The school children rehearsed an impressive physical training parade and cultural program.

During the inspection, the Collector has given instructions to follow the instructions given by the government. In the rehearsal, arrival of the chief guest, flag hoisting, march past and salute, reading of the Chief Minister's message to the public, cultural program, prize distribution etc. were rehearsed. On 26 January 2026, in the Republic Day district level main function, Public Health and Family Welfare, Medical Education, Backward Class and Minority Development, 20 Point Implementation Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal will hoist the flag and take the salute of the parade.

The Collector gave necessary instructions to all the officials concerned to celebrate the event in a dignified and simple manner, following the guidelines set by the government. Instructions have been given to the concerned officials to make proper arrangements for seating, drinking water, electricity and other arrangements at the Republic Day main function venue. Additional Collector Pradeep Kumar Sahu, Deputy Collector Prashant Kushwaha, ASDOP Chandrashekhar Prarama, along with top officials of the administration and police department were present in the final rehearsal of the Republic Day function. The program was conducted by DR Rathiya and Jayesh Saurabh Topno.

Jashpurnagar . Under the direction of Collector Rohit Vyas and Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. G.S. Jatra, a six-day peer educator training program was started in the district's development block Manora from January 21 under the National Adolescent Health Program.

The primary objective of Peer Educator Training is to develop the immense potential of working with adolescents aged 10 to 19 years and to develop their capacity to make informed and responsible decisions regarding their health and well-being. Peer Educators are adolescents selected from the community who guide and assist other adolescents in coping with the many challenges of their developmental stage and in making the best possible use of available opportunities.

Training Under the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram, various services are made available to adolescents through government hospitals-dispensaries and frontline health workers available in the community. The program provides positive thinking to adolescents and skills to solve the health problems of adolescents. Under this program, through peer educator training, adolescents and adolescents are trained in six important areas like nutrition, sexual health, non-communicable diseases, drug abuse, injury, violence, mental health etc. and appropriate education and awareness is spread by intervening in the above issues in the community.

A total of 40 participants, including 32 students (school entrants and school dropouts) and 8 Mitanins, are being trained under the Peer Educator Training Program. Participants were provided with backpacks, T-shirts, and caps as incentives. Following training, Peer Educators will work with frontline health workers and others to organize Adolescent Health Days in their villages once every three months. The goal of Adolescent Health Days is to raise awareness among adolescents about nutrition, mental health, personal hygiene, and the dangers of child marriage. The training team, along with the program's nodal officer, Dr. Arvind Ratre, Nidhi Singh, Anand Lakra, and Karishma Chauhan, played a key role in the successful conduct of the training.

Jashpurnagar . Keeping the safety of the public in mind, the Forest Department of Jashpur has issued an alert regarding the activity of lone elephants in the Pathalgaon range. The department has reported that four lone elephants are currently roaming around the villages of Jamjhor, Maheshpur, Saraitola, and Khajrikudkel within the Pathalgaon range.

The Forest Department has appealed to all villagers in the area to exercise extreme caution. Do not venture into forest areas or fields alone for any purpose. If you see an elephant anywhere, immediately inform the Forest Department or the nearest forest staff and strictly follow the Forest Department's guidelines. The Department is continuously monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions to minimize human-elephant conflict.

According to information provided by the Forest Department, on the night of January 21st, a highly aggressive lone elephant from the Tapkara Range, under the Pathalgaon Range, wandered through the Jamjhor Beat of the Pathalgaon Range and reached the Khadamacha village. On the morning of January 22nd, at approximately 6:00 a.m., Ram Sai Nag, 65, son of Bag Ram, and Sandeep Nag, 9, son of Jethuram, residents of the village, went to the fields to defecate. During this time, they encountered the aggressive lone elephant, leaving both seriously injured. Upon receiving information about the incident, the Forest Department acted swiftly and immediately transported the injured to a nearby hospital, and medical treatment was initiated. Currently, the condition of both injured is being continuously monitored.

Given the severity of the incident, an immediate alert has been issued in the area. The Forest Department's elephant patrol team and rapid response team are regularly patrolling the area and keeping villagers informed about the elephants' presence, ensuring the prevention of any untoward incident.

Jashpurnagar . In villages that once lacked bus access, children's faces light up as soon as a bus arrives. Children wave their hands in joy as soon as they see a bus on the road, and people emerge from their homes upon hearing the horn, carrying a new hope. This hope now extends to easy access to the city headquarters, town headquarters, and development block headquarters.

Sitting on a passenger bus, people reminisce about the days when they had to travel on foot or by private vehicle. Things have changed. Schoolchildren are arriving on time, and officials and employees are also able to reach their duties on time. This change isn't just about convenience, but about the dreams of rural families who are seeing the vision of a developed India come true in their lives.

This change has been made possible by Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai's ambitious Chief Minister Rural Bus Scheme. Under this scheme, buses are now reaching villages that previously had no access.

Women of the hilly region got relief: 

Anganwadi worker Sunita Nikunj, a resident of Sanna in the Bagicha development block, says that previously, she had to get a lift, take a private vehicle, or walk to the Anganwadi center in the nearby village. This was very difficult due to the hilly terrain. Now, the rural bus has solved this problem. She says, "This bus has become a great way for me."

Smiles returned to the faces of the villagers: 

Dashrath Bhagat, a resident of Marangi village, who was traveling on the bus, laughs and says that previously, buses didn't run on this road, so we had to walk. "Now, thanks to the Chief Minister's initiative, buses have started running. We can easily go to Baghicha and return on time." Passenger Mangal Ram explains that previously, he used to walk to markets like Chhichli and Champa. "Now, with the arrival of the bus, it's very convenient. We're all very happy."

The Chief Minister's Rural Bus Scheme has not only made travel easier but has also greatly facilitated villagers' access to cities for health, education, and administrative needs. This scheme is proving to be a powerful step toward connecting rural life with the mainstream and is opening new avenues for development in hilly and remote areas like Jashpur.

Jashpurnagar . Collector Rohit Vyas has approved a financial assistance grant of Rs 4 lakh under RBC 6-4 to the affected family in a case of loss of life due to natural calamity. Late Vinod Kumar Dhruv, a resident of village Balajhar under Pathalgaon tehsil, died on 16 December 2024 after drowning in a well. A financial assistance grant of Rs 4 lakh has been approved for the deceased's nearest heir, his wife Ramshila widow.

Jashpurnagar . Under the visionary and public-spirited leadership of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, development work in Jashpur district has gained unprecedented momentum. Under his guidance, new doors of progress and prosperity are opening in the district. 

Significant progress has been made, especially in the construction of roads and bridges, which are considered the lifeline of the economy, due to which the picture of the district is rapidly changing and positive changes are being seen in the lives of common citizens. During the last two years, approval has been received for 603 roads in the district at a total cost of Rs 914 crore 94 lakh. Taking this development journey further, on the instructions of the Chief Minister, administrative approval has been given for the construction of 6 new roads in Jashpur district at a cost of Rs 18.26 crore.

Raipur . Birdwatchers and environmentalists have received some heartening news from the Barnawapara Sanctuary. A recent bird survey at the sanctuary recorded the presence of the rare Orange-breasted Green-Pigeon (Treron bicinctus). 

Historically, this bird's presence was previously recorded in Barnawapara, when it was sighted by renowned ornithologist A.M.K. Bharose in 2015-16. Since then, the species has been absent from the area, making its return a significant achievement in wildlife conservation.

The rare bird was sighted by a team of Pakrid experts from Karnataka, Bihar, and Odisha, including birders and wildlife photographers Raju Verma and Pratik Thakur. The team had a major breakthrough when a pair of birds was found perched in a tree directly above them, allowing for detailed photography and recording before they flew away.

This sighting is also significant for wildlife lovers because this species has been seen in the area after a long gap of many years. Found in India and parts of Southeast Asia, this bird primarily feeds on figs and other juicy forest fruits. It is considered a resident species, adapting its movements to local seasonal changes. Its presence has been recorded from time to time in other forests of Chhattisgarh, but its return to Barnawapara reflects the robustness of the ecosystem.

The survey team identified this bird based on its distinctive physical features. The Orange-Breasted Green-Pigeon's blue-grey neck, yellow-green head, and lower body make it distinctive. Its red legs and grey-grey central tail feathers clearly distinguish it from the more commonly seen Yellow-Footed Green-Pigeon (Hariyal). The male bird, in particular, was identified by the deep orange patch on its chest. Capturing this species after many years is not only a matter of excitement for photographers but also a powerful testimony to the favorable environment and diversity of birds in the sanctuary.

Raipur. The second T20 International match between India and New Zealand will be played on January 23 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Naya Raipur. In view of this major match, the Raipur Traffic Police have implemented elaborate route and parking arrangements for the convenience and safety of spectators coming from various districts of the state. Furthermore, for security reasons, entry of certain items into the stadium will be strictly prohibited.

Spectators coming from Raipur city will reach the stadium via Naya Raipur Road via Telibandha Police Station Tiraha, NH-53, Serikhedi Overbridge and will park their vehicles at Sai Hospital and Sendh Talab parking and enter on foot. Separate routes and parking places have been decided for spectators coming from Bilaspur, Durg-Bhilai, Jagdalpur-Dhamtari, Balodabazar-Kharora and Mahasamund-Saraipali routes. Special routes and parking arrangements have also been made for vehicles with passes.Learn more

Traffic police said that entry of medium and heavy goods vehicles will be prohibited on all entry points of Naya Raipur from 12 noon to 1 am on January 23.For security reasons, alcohol, tobacco products, bottles, bags, cameras, laptops, weapons, and food items, among other things, are prohibited from entering the stadium. Traffic police have appealed to spectators to follow designated routes and cooperate with safety regulations to enjoy the match in a safe environment.

Jashpurnagar . Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai is scheduled to visit Kansabel in Jashpur district in the coming days. During this visit, the Chief Minister will participate in local events organized in the area. The district administration and police department have intensified preparations for the Chief Minister's visit, ensuring a peaceful and orderly event. 

In view of the Chief Minister's proposed arrival, Collector Rohit Vyas and Senior Superintendent of Police Shashi Mohan Singh inspected the venue and surrounding areas. Officials closely reviewed the arrangements and issued necessary instructions. During the inspection, the helipad site being constructed for the Chief Minister's helicopter was inspected. Officials instructed that all necessary preparations be completed in accordance with technical and safety standards in a timely manner, so that there would be no inconvenience.

Tight security arrangements:

SSP Shashi Mohan Singh has given clear instructions to the officials regarding security arrangements, ensuring that all security protocols are strictly followed at the venue and surrounding areas. Adequate police deployment is being ensured during the Chief Minister's visit. Kansabel Tehsildar Aastha Chandrakar, District Panchayat CEO Sandeep Kumar Maravi, along with other senior officials and departmental employees were present during the inspection. Working in coordination, the officials discussed the program's outline and arrangements.

An atmosphere of excitement reigns in the area regarding the Chief Minister's arrival in Kansabel. Local citizens are eager to interact directly with the Chief Minister and participate in events. Collector Rohit Vyas has directed all departments to complete all necessary preparations within the stipulated timeframe, ensuring a successful and smooth Chief Minister's visit.

Jashpurnagar . Jashpur district has achieved a major milestone in strengthening the democratic system and taking voter participation to new heights. On the occasion of the 16th National Voters' Day 2026, organized as per the instructions of the Election Commission of India, Jashpur district has been selected for the state-level Best Electoral District Award under the category of "Effective Use of Technology in Elections." This honor is a result of the efficient leadership, innovative thinking, and continuous administrative efforts of Collector and District Election Officer Rohit Vyas. This award will be presented to Collector Rohit Vyas by the Chief Electoral Officer, Chhattisgarh, at a state-level function organized on January 25, 2026, at Vivekananda Auditorium, Indira Gandhi Agricultural College, Raipur.

Jashpur sets new benchmark with technology-based innovations: 

During the elections, Jashpur district made significant use of information technology to ensure a transparent, smooth, and effective electoral process. Voter list purification through e-systems, digital monitoring, online training, voter awareness through social media, technological innovations in SVEEP activities, and the effective use of IT tools in election management made Jashpur a leader at the state level.

The role of Collector Vyas was decisive:

Collector and District Election Officer Rohit Vyas, instead of treating the election process as a mere administrative responsibility, conducted it as a public participation campaign. Under his guidance, the district administration, election staff, technical team, and field-level personnel worked in coordination, connecting technology with the common voter. This is why the efforts of Jashpur district were particularly praised by the Election Commission of India.

A proud moment for the district:

This honor is a matter of pride not only for the Jashpur district administration, but also for every voter, officer, employee, and citizen who believes in democracy. This achievement is proof that Jashpur district, with its remote tribal and hilly regions, can also set an example for the state in technology-based good governance and democratic innovation. This state-level award, to be received on National Voters' Day 2026, will mark an important chapter in the electoral history of Jashpur district and will serve as an inspiration for a more efficient, transparent, and participatory election process in the future.

Raipur . The government's ambitious Prime Minister's Free Electricity Scheme for Solar Homes is bringing positive change to the lives of ordinary citizens. This scheme not only provides relief from rising electricity bills, but also empowers people with energy self-reliance by connecting them to clean, affordable, and green energy. Through the scheme, ordinary consumers are no longer merely electricity consumers but also energy producers.

Mr. Satendra Sahu, a resident of Bendridih village in the Khairagarh development block, is a living example of the scheme's success. He installed a 3 kilowatt solar rooftop panel on his home's roof. Within just one month of installing the solar panel, his electricity bill dropped to almost zero. Previously, due to high electricity consumption, he had to pay an average of ₹1,500 per month. Now, the use of solar energy has brought him significant relief. In December, his electricity bill was only ₹20.

Satendra Sahu said that as soon as he learned about the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, he decided to take advantage of it. Under the scheme, the central and state governments are providing a total subsidy of up to 108,000 rupees, making the installation of solar rooftop panels simple and affordable for ordinary citizens. The subsidy significantly reduced the initial cost, making his decision even easier.

He said that this scheme not only saves on electricity costs but also contributes to environmental protection. The PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme is encouraging ordinary citizens to adopt clean energy and is proving to be an important step towards sustainable development.

Raipur : On the initiative of Governor Shri Ramen Deka, the grand inauguration of the research institute dedicated to the thoughts, philosophy and literature of Srimanta Sankardev, the great saint, social reformer and pioneer of cultural consciousness, established in Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University, was held today in a dignified ceremony.

Governor Shri Ramen Deka presided over the event. A large number of academicians, researchers, youth, and dignitaries were present, along with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Higher Education Minister Shri Tankaram Verma, Dr. Krishna Gopal Ji, Co-General Secretary, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. An MoU was also signed between Punjab University, Chandigarh, and Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur. Following the MoU, researchers from both universities will be able to conduct interdisciplinary research at each other's universities.

In his address on the occasion, the Governor said that the thoughts of Shrimant Shankar Dev still inspire to unite the society, establish equality and strengthen human values.

Mr. Deka stated that the establishment of this research center is an important initiative toward connecting the cultural heritage of Northeast India and Central India at the academic and research levels. This research center will become a powerful center for study focused on India's great saint tradition, the Bhakti movement, and social reforms. He added that such academic endeavors further strengthen the country's cultural unity.

The Chhattisgarh government has given Rs 2 crore in the current financial year for the operation of this research centre, for which he thanked Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai.

The Governor said that Srimanta Shankar Dev has earned fame as a social reformer, educationist, artist, playwright, theatre director, painter, litterateur, lyricist, promoter and propagator of music and Vaishnavism. Describing Srimanta Shankar Dev as a great social reformer of North East India, he said that he envisioned a harmonious society, rising above caste, class, and religion. Through the Namghar and Satra traditions, he strengthened a social system based on equality, compassion, and generosity. The literature written by Srimanta Shankar Dev, Ankia Nat and Borgeet, are today invaluable treasures of Indian cultural heritage. His ideas united Assamese society and gave a new direction to social consciousness.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that while Pujya Shankardev Ji's field of work may have been Assam, the social awakening he carried out had an impact on the entire country. The literature, plays, and hymns written by Shrimant Shankardev Ji proclaim Indian culture. Our country is known for its unity and integrity. This is due to sons of Mother India like Shri Shankardev Ji, who dedicated their entire lives to the nation's culture. By informing the current and new generations about the contributions of our ancestors, we can build a capable and prosperous India. This instills a sense of patriotism in people. Shri Shankardev Ji said in one of his compositions that it is a great fortune to be born in India. The message of one India he gave 500 years ago is being realized today by our illustrious Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi with the slogan "Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat."

While addressing the program, the chief speaker Dr. Krishna Gopal ji said that the state of Assam is full of diversity. There are different types of tribes, geographical, rivers, mountains, forests, dense forests. Due to which different tribes have been living here from far away places for thousands of years. Shrimant Shankar Dev did the important work of binding these tribes in one thread. He united the people through the devotion of Shri Krishna. He is a prominent personality of the Bhakti movement. He wrote devotional literature, gave training in drama, singing and standing. He established Naam Ghar in every village. Today every village of Assam has Naam established. It is called the home of devotion, culture and social harmony. He threw light on the contribution of Shrimant Shankar Dev in detail.

Ministry of Panchayati Raj to award young leaders from Chhattisgarh for excellence in participatory governance on January 28  

Raipur— In a moment of great pride for Chhattisgarh, Eklavya Model Residential School, Kosambudha, has emerged as the national winner in the first-of-its-kind "Model Youth Gram Sabha" competition. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj will formally felicitate the winning team from Chhattisgarh at a grand national awards ceremony to be held in New Delhi on January 28, 2026. This is a major victory for Chhattisgarh's tribal education system. Outperforming participants from over 800 schools across the country, the students of EMRS Kosambudha demonstrated an exceptional understanding of rural governance. Launched on October 30, 2025, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Ministry of Education, the initiative aimed to inspire youth to address grassroots issues through mock Gram Sabha sessions. Chhattisgarh's top position reflects how strongly the state has imbibed democratic values ​​within its tribal residential school system. Expressing his delight at this prestigious achievement, Dr. Kamalakant Yadav, Principal of EMRS Kosambudha, said, "It is a matter of great joy that our school has been awarded first place at the national level in the Model Youth Gram Sabha initiative. This success reflects the hard work of our students and their deep understanding of the problems related to rural development. This visionary initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Central Government is an effective platform to connect students with democratic processes and participatory governance. Through this event, students have had the opportunity to closely understand the decision-making process at the grassroots level. We are excited to participate in the felicitation ceremony to be held in New Delhi on January 28th." The "Model Youth Gram Sabha," a visionary initiative for youth engagement, was launched on October 30, 2025. In less than three months, this program has reached more than 800 schools across India, fostering a culture of participatory governance among youth." Among the top six shortlisted teams from across the country, EMRS Kosambudha has set new standards for discipline in conducting Gram Sabhas and practical solutions to local problems. The felicitation ceremony on January 28th will celebrate the achievements of these young ambassadors of democracy, a major milestone in preparing responsible citizens of the future. 

Raipur: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai attended the inaugural function of RADA Auto Expo-2026 organized by Raipur Automobile Dealers Association at Shriram Business Park in the capital Raipur. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Chhattisgarh government is striving for continuous development in every sector. Purchasing power of common citizens has increased in the state, due to which the markets are witnessing a boom. He appealed to the people to strictly follow the traffic rules to prevent road accidents. During the program, Chief Minister Shri Sai launched Yamaha XSR-155, Tata Sierra and Mahindra 7XO vehicles. Along with this, he also released the book “Money Matters”.

Addressing the Rada Auto Expo 2026, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that in the last two years, farmers in the state have been receiving fair prices for paddy. Farmers are also benefiting from the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. He said that the reforms made in GST rates have reduced the prices of many commodities, providing great relief to the common people. The Chief Minister said that during discussions with people at various places, he learned that the reduction in GST rates has resulted in a benefit of approximately 15 to 25 thousand rupees in the price of a bike. Meanwhile, one person said that the price of a harvester has decreased by approximately 2 lakh rupees.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that a new industrial policy has been implemented in the state, which is being praised both domestically and internationally. Investment proposals worth approximately ₹8 lakh crore have been received in the past year, and work on several projects has already begun. He said that he had the opportunity to attend the Auto Expo last year as well. At that time, the government had provided a 50 percent discount on road tax, which was widely beneficial. The target for sales at that time was 25,000 vehicles, but approximately 29,000 vehicles were sold. This generated approximately ₹800 crore in GST revenue for the government and ₹129 crore for the Transport Department. Common citizens also directly benefited from the Auto Expo.

Chief Minister Mr. Sai stated that this year's Rada Auto Expo has been organized on a much larger scale. The expo's area has been expanded, and more than 300 stalls have been set up. Entrepreneurs and various companies from across the state are participating. Welcoming all participants, he said that approximately 2,000 vehicles were registered on the first day, and he is confident that this year's target of 50,000 vehicle sales will be achieved. The Chief Minister stated that the Auto Expo should be organized in this manner every year.

In his address, Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap said that this ninth edition of the RADA Auto Expo is not just about vehicle display, but also symbolizes job creation and the progress of the auto sector in the state. He added that the 50 percent road tax discount offered by the Chhattisgarh government is benefiting both customers and small and medium-sized businesses in the state. The state's roads are continuously expanding, leading to improved connectivity and an increase in two-wheeler and four-wheeler sales, even in rural areas. The auto sector in Chhattisgarh is steadily progressing.

It is noteworthy that the Council of Ministers has taken an important decision to provide a 50 percent lifetime road tax rebate on vehicles sold during the 9th Auto Expo, being held in the capital Raipur from January 20 to February 5, 2026. This rebate will be applicable at the time of registration after the sale of the vehicle at the expo, providing a one-time 50 percent motor vehicle tax relief. Vehicle dealers across the state will benefit from this decision; necessary instructions have been issued in this regard.

During the event, Chief Minister Mr. Sai signed the road safety pledge at the Auto Expo and appealed to the public to follow traffic rules. He also released a poster for the Women's Marathon, to be held on the upcoming Women's Day.

Transport Secretary Shri S. Prakash, Transport Commissioner Shri D. Ravishankar, CAT Vice Chairman Shri Amar Parwani, Shri Rajkumar Singhania, Shri Ravindra Bhasin, Shri Vivek Garg and a large number of members of Raipur Automobile Dealers Association were present on the occasion.

Raipur: On the occasion of Republic Day, on January 26th, the state's Commerce, Industry, and Labor Minister, Mr. Lakhanlal Dewangan, will hoist the flag in Kawardha, the headquarters of Kabirdham district, and read the Chief Minister's message to the people of the state. The main Republic Day celebration will be held at the district headquarters, Kawardha.