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.

Raipur:  With the aim of achieving self-sufficiency in edible oils and ensuring long-term and sustainable growth in farmers' income, the National Mission on Edible Oil-Oil Palm Scheme is being effectively implemented jointly by the Central and State governments. Under this scheme, in addition to Central Government grants, the State Government is providing top-up grants in various components to encourage oil palm cultivation, thereby providing financial support to farmers.

          Assistant Director of Horticulture, Mungeli, stated that the state government has provided special assistance, considering the high initial cost of oil palm cultivation and the gestation period of three to four years. In addition to the minimum subsidy of 1.30 lakh rupees per hectare provided by the central government, the state government is providing top-up grants to farmers, so that more and more farmers are attracted to this crop.

     Oil palm is a long-term, low-labor, and high-yield crop. It is extremely disease-prone. Once planted, production begins in the fourth year and provides consistent yields for 25 to 30 years. Compared to traditional oilseed crops, oil palm has a 4- to 6-fold higher oil production per hectare, providing farmers with a stable and assured income.

Additional grants under various heads

       The state government is providing additional subsidy to the eligible farmers planting oil palm as follows: In this, in the maintenance item, by increasing the pre-determined amount of Rs. 5,250 per hectare by Rs. 1,500, totaling Rs. 6,750 per hectare; for intercropping, with the increase, totaling Rs. 10,250 per hectare; farmers adopting drip irrigation system are provided with additional assistance of Rs. 8,635, totaling Rs. 22,765 per hectare; a subsidy of Rs. 54,485 per hectare is provided for fencing to protect the planted plants and intercropping crops from animals. In this way, the state government is providing additional subsidy of up to Rs. 69,620 to the farmers planting oil palm under the heads of maintenance, fencing, intercropping and drip irrigation.

      This subsidy will be payable only to farmers who plant oil palm under the scheme. For detailed information, eligibility, application process, and technical guidance, farmers can contact Horticulture Department officials or authorized representative companies. Cultivating oil palm will not only strengthen farmers' economic status but also strengthen the national resolve to make the country self-sufficient in edible oils.

CG News: On the occasion of National Youth Day and Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai will have a very busy schedule on Monday, January 12. CM Sai will attend several important events from the capital Raipur to Gunderdehi and Doondilhora in Balod district.

After the morning's events, the Chief Minister will return to the Chief Minister's residence at 9:20 a.m. and remain in the reserve for a short time. He will then arrive at the Police Ground helipad at 12:25 p.m. and depart by helicopter for Gunderdehi in Balod district.

CM to attend closing ceremony of National Rover Ranger Jamboree
From 1 pm to 2 pm, the Chief Minister will perform ground breaking and inauguration of various development works in Gunderdehi Nagar Panchayat. After this, he will reach Dudhli village of Doondilhora development block, where he will attend the "First National Rover-Ranger Jamboree" program from 3 pm to 4 pm.

00 Government policies are implemented on the ground only due to the hard work, dedication and discipline of the employees: Chief Minister
00 Chief Minister addressed the triennial 8th State Convention of State Employees Union, Chhattisgarh

Raipur. Employees are the backbone of governance and administration, and it is only through their honesty, diligence, and sensitivity that government plans, policies, and decisions are implemented. Chhattisgarh's administrative structure is functioning effectively only because of your hard work, dedication, and discipline. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai said this while addressing the triennial eighth state convention organized by the State Employees Union, Chhattisgarh, at the Saraswati Shiksha Sansthan campus in Rohinipuram, Raipur.

Chief Minister Shri Sai, taking a significant decision in the interest of state government officials and employees, announced an increase in dearness allowance from 55 percent to 58 percent, similar to the central government. He stated that this decision will provide real relief to employees amid rising inflation. He said that this decision reflects the government's commitment to employee-friendly behavior.

Addressing the convention, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that this convention is a powerful opportunity for organizational deliberations as well as strengthening the resolve for good governance. Only when the government and employees work shoulder to shoulder does the path to development become clear and the governance system becomes more robust. He said that in the last two years, the government has taken several important decisions in the interest of employees. By improving the transfer policy, promotion process, and workplace arrangements, the administration has been made more transparent, streamlined, and employee-friendly. The formation of the Department of Good Governance and Convergence has further strengthened the public-trust-based governance system.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that special attention has been paid to the timely payment of pensions, gratuities, and other retirement benefits, ensuring that employees do not face any inconvenience at the time of retirement. The state has also provided a strong legislative foundation in this regard by establishing the Chhattisgarh Pension Fund and passing the Pension Fund Bill in the Legislative Assembly. He stated that the efficiency of employees has been strengthened through e-office, online services, and technological innovations, while training and capacity building programs are preparing them to adapt to changing times.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Chhattisgarh is a state rich in natural resources. Naxalism was once a major challenge for the state, but our security forces have fought it resolutely with unparalleled courage and valor. Saluting the valor of the security forces from the stage, he stated that a better and more humane rehabilitation policy has been implemented for surrendered Naxalites. In accordance with the resolve of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the goal of completely eradicating Naxalism from the country has been set for March 31, 2026. Peace and order is rapidly being established in the Bastar region and basic amenities like electricity, water and roads are being provided to remote forest areas through the Niyyad Nella Nar scheme. In accordance with the national goal of Developed India 2047, the state government has also prepared Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047 and given new direction and momentum to the development of the state.
On this occasion, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Labour Welfare Board Mr. Yogesh Dutt Mishra, All India President of Rashtriya Rajya Karmachari Sangh Mr. Gaurav Kumar Soni, General Secretary Mr. Rajendra Kumar Srivastava, President of Rajya Karmachari Sangh Chhattisgarh Mr. Arun Tiwari, State General Secretary Mr. Ashwani Chelak and a large number of employees and officers were present.

Raipur.  In the capital, Raipur, cyber fraudsters posing as businessmen defrauded a lawyer of ₹55,000 online. The accused duped him via WhatsApp and forced him to make a UPI transaction. The incident occurred in the Civil Lines police station area, where police have registered a case and begun an investigation based on the victim's complaint.

According to reports, Vijay Kumar Das, a lawyer by profession, lives with his family in Shankar Nagar Sector-02, near Durga Maidan. He told police that on January 8th, at around 4:15 p.m., he received a WhatsApp message on his mobile phone asking for a transfer of ₹55,000. The sender, claiming to be an acquaintance and a businessman at Navkar Jewellers, told him that his UPI was currently down, so he should send the money temporarily, which would be refunded within two hours.

Trusting him as he was an acquaintance, Vijay Kumar Das transferred Rs 55,000 from his account at Union Bank, Pandri Raipur to the UPI ID given through Phone-Pay.

After sending the money, he sent a screenshot of the payment via WhatsApp, but the message was not delivered. He then contacted Navkar Jewellers' actual mobile number. Shortly after, Navkar Jewellers called, stating that their WhatsApp account had been hacked and that they had not received any money requests. Only then did the lawyer realize he had been duped.

According to the police, fraudsters hacked the WhatsApp account of Navkar Jewellers and sent messages in their name, resulting in an online transaction of ₹55,000. Police have registered a case and are searching for the cyber fraudsters

Raipur: Farmers are getting convenience in selling paddy due to transparent and digital system implemented at paddy procurement centers. Now the paddy selling process has become simple, easy and simple due to the system made by the government. Lal Sandil, a farmer of Gram Panchayat Ghanghari under Ambikapur development block, told that this year a total area of ​​19.60 quintals of paddy is registered in the name of his grandfather Jhemal Ram Sandil. He told that the digital system has saved time and there is no problem of crowd in the procurement center.

         Sandil said that upon reaching the Namna Kalan paddy procurement centre, the moisture testing process was completed near the gate and gunny bags were immediately made available. This ensured no inconvenience in the sale of paddy. He said that for the convenience of the farmers, arrangements for drinking water and shaded seating have been made at the committee centre and the committee employees are providing support at every level. He said that under the government of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, paddy is getting the highest price of Rs 3100 per quintal and up to 21 quintals are being purchased per acre, due to which the farmers are getting benefits.

         Farmer Sandil said that with the proceeds from selling paddy, he is cultivating other crops like wheat, oilseeds, and vegetables, which has increased his income and improved his financial situation. He praised the paddy procurement system, saying that receiving fair prices for produce is strengthening the rural economy. He expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai for his work in the interest of farmers and said that farmers are extremely satisfied and happy with the current paddy procurement system.

Raipur: The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) is fulfilling the dream of permanent housing for needy rural families in the district. Families once forced to live in mud houses are now finding security and dignity in their lives. Under the direction of the Collector and the leadership of the District Panchayat CEO, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) is being effectively implemented in the district, leading to the rapid construction of permanent houses in rural areas.

    Krishna Vishwas, a resident of the village panchayat Ajrima in the Ambikapur development block, has a permanent house ready. His daughter, Sutapsi Vishwas, said that earlier their family used to live in a mud house, where it was extremely difficult to live, especially during the rainy season. Along with water leaking from the roof, there was also the fear of poisonous creatures. Krishna Vishwas said that the incentive received from the government under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) gave his family the strength to build a permanent house. By combining the capital saved from agricultural labour with the government assistance, he built the permanent house of his dreams. Today, a total of five members, including his parents and grandfather, are living safely and respectfully in this house.

   Taapsee Biswas said that the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) is proving to be a boon for needy rural families. This scheme has not only provided them with safe housing, but also given them stability and self-respect. Expressing her family's gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, she said that this government welfare scheme has fulfilled their dream of a permanent home and improved the living standards of rural families.

Raipur:  The Mahtari Vandan Yojana, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai to strengthen the economic independence, self-respect, and decisive role of women in Chhattisgarh, is emerging as an effective and far-reaching women's empowerment initiative. This scheme not only provides regular financial assistance to women, but also connects them with new opportunities for self-employment and livelihood, making them self-reliant.

The story of women's empowerment from economic strength to self-reliance

    Under the scheme, eligible women are receiving a fixed monthly assistance of ₹1,000 directly into their bank accounts. So far, a total of ₹14,948 crore 34 lakh has been provided to millions of women in the state in 23 installments. This regular support has reduced women's worries about household expenses, boosted their self-confidence, and empowered them to take an active role in economic decisions.
Steps Toward Self-Employment

    The most positive aspect of the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is that women are utilizing the assistance and starting small businesses. Urmila Yadav, a resident of Ward No. 2 of Champa Nagar in Janjgir-Champa district, started a business making artificial jewelry by saving the monthly payment. Today, she earns an additional income of approximately 2,000 rupees per month by selling jewelry from home and at weekly markets.

    Similarly, Jyoti Kaser of Champa started a papad business with the help of the scheme, which now generates a monthly profit of approximately 5,000 rupees. This allows her to easily meet her family's educational and healthcare needs. Sumitra Karsh of Sarhar village started a cosmetics shop, earning an additional income of approximately 1,000 rupees per month, while Kusum Devi Pandey expanded her cosmetics shop and now earns a monthly profit of 2,000 rupees.

This scheme is providing stability to the lives of poor families,
    providing financial security even to families dependent on wages and limited income. Satrupa Gandharva, a resident of Majhgaon village in Kabirdham district and from a wage-dependent family, has so far received Rs 23,000 in 23 installments under the scheme. She says this amount has been used to cover her children's education, household needs, and personal expenses.

    Their needs are being met easily. With regular assistance, they are now able to save some money, eliminating the worry of unexpected expenses. Omlata, who belongs to a simple farmer family from Raghunathnagar village in Balrampur district, has also benefited from this scheme and moved forward towards self-reliance.  

Increasing Women's Respect and Participation
    Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade stated that the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is an initiative that brings stability, respect, and self-confidence to women's lives. Regular financial assistance has enabled women to play an active role in meeting family needs and has increased their participation in economic decisions. She directed officials to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach every eligible woman in a timely and transparent manner.

    Today, the Mahtari Vandan Yojana is not just a financial assistance program, but has become a strong foundation for women's dreams, self-reliance, and social empowerment. This scheme is giving women in the state the opportunity to move forward with confidence and is establishing a new identity for Chhattisgarh in the field of women's empowerment.

00 Chief Minister made the announcement at the India International Rice Summit
00 Demand for organic products is increasing rapidly - Sai

Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today attended the India International Rice Summit held at a private resort in the capital Raipur. On this occasion, he has given a big gift to the rice exporters. The period of exemption in market fee has been extended by one year. The announcement made by CM Sai during the India International Rice Summit is a big gift for both rice exporters and farmers. Along with this, the regional office of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was also inaugurated. He said that at present the demand for organic products is increasing rapidly and organic rice is being cultivated in Dantewada, which needs to be encouraged further.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that this second edition of the India International Rice Summit is extremely important. The presence of buyers from 12 countries and embassy delegations from six countries will help Chhattisgarh gain international recognition. He welcomed and greeted all foreign guests on the sacred land of Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister stated that our ancestors thoughtfully called Chhattisgarh the rice bowl, and today the state is living up to this name. Rice has been an integral part of Chhattisgarh's cuisine, and thousands of rice varieties are grown here. Referring to the fragrant Jeera Phool and Dubaraj rice varieties of the Surguja region, he said their aroma is recognizable from afar. Rice exports from Chhattisgarh will receive a boost. Rice exports have long been demanding exemptions from market fees. The government granted exemptions last year as well, but the exemption expires in December 2025.
The Chief Minister stated that under the state government's new industrial policy, small-scale industries are being promoted, which will strengthen rice processing and exports. He said that Chhattisgarh currently exports nearly 100,000 tons of rice to approximately 90 countries. The government is always ready to support exporters. He informed that 21 quintals of paddy per acre are being purchased from farmers in the state at a rate of Rs. 3,100 per quintal. Last year, 149 lakh metric tons of paddy were purchased, and this year 
's purchase is expected to increase again. During the event, the Chief Minister also shared information about the schemes implemented by the Central and State governments for the benefit of farmers. During the India International Rice Summit, Chief Minister Shri Sai visited the rice exhibition. He inquired about various rice varieties, regionally produced varieties, innovations in rice production, and efforts to increase productivity through modern technology. The Chief Minister also inspected government stalls and praised the efforts being made to promote rice production and marketing. The Chief Minister stated that such innovations will increase rice production, directly benefiting farmers and strengthening the state's economy.
On this occasion, Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, Chairman of APEDA Shri Abhishek Dev, President of Chhattisgarh Rice Millers Association Shri Kanti Lal, Shri Ram Garg, millers, rice businessmen and stakeholders from across the country were present.

00 Chief Minister participated in the inaugural program of Cosmo Trade and Build Fair Expo 2026
Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai participated in the inaugural program of Cosmo Trade and Build Fair Expo 2026 organized by Rotary Club of Cosmopolitan Raipur in the capital Raipur yesterday. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that entrepreneurs will have an important role in building a developed Chhattisgarh. 

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Chhattisgarh government is working for the upliftment of every section of society. GST rates were reduced to improve business and benefit consumers, a direct benefit of which is accruing to the public. GST reforms have reduced the prices of many goods. The GST process has been streamlined.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Chhattisgarh's new industrial policy is being praised both domestically and internationally. We have received investment proposals worth over Rs 8 lakh crore. We have received these investment proposals in every sector, and work on them has already begun on the ground. We have a special focus on job creation in the state. The new industrial policy includes provisions for providing special incentives to entrepreneurs who generate more than 1,000 jobs. 
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Rotary Clubs and entrepreneurs will play a crucial role in developing Chhattisgarh. Rotary Clubs work not only for entrepreneurship but also for philanthropy. The social work undertaken by the Club is highly commendable. It is heartening that this expo is the largest in Central India, with over 300 stalls. Chhattisgarh will certainly benefit from this massive event. 
Raipur MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, Chhattisgarh is rapidly progressing on the path of development. Chhattisgarh has received investment proposals worth approximately Rs 8 lakh crore. It is a matter of great happiness that this is the 16th year of this expo organized by the Rotary Club. Rotary Club is an organization associated with service. Rotary Club has also made significant contribution in the work of polio eradication.
Chief Minister Sai inaugurated the ambulance of the mobile eye clinic in the program. He honored 25 women entrepreneurs who are making special contribution in various sectors and also released a book focusing on these women entrepreneurs. On this occasion, former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Rakesh Chaturvedi, Shri Ram Garg along with members of Rotary Club of Cosmopolitan Raipur and a large number of common people were present.

00 Instructions given to the officials for foolproof arrangements in the fair
Raipur. A meeting was held on Friday in the premises of Sadguru Kabir Dharmdas Saheb Vanshavali Pratinidhi Sabha under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma and Panth Shri Prakashmuni Nam Saheb for the preparation of Sant Samagam Samaroh (Magh Mela) starting from January 23 in Kabir Dharamnagar Damakheda. Keeping in view the grandeur of the Sant Samagam Samaroh, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Sharma gave necessary instructions to the officials for foolproof arrangements of facilities, system and security.

Panth Shri Prakashmuni Nam Saheb informed that the Sant Samagam ceremony (Magh Mela) will be held from January 23 to Magh Purnima on February 1, 2026. This year, the ceremony will also include the Chadar Tilak ceremony of the newly born Vanshacharya Uditmuni Nam Saheb on January 23, in which a large number of devotees from other states and abroad will participate. He said that every year this ceremony receives full support from the district administration, and this year too, everyone's support will be received and this event will be successfully completed

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sharma stated that this year's event will be held on a grand scale, requiring greater human resources and arrangements. He urged everyone to perform their duties diligently and complete all tasks on time. He urged that all arrangements be in place so that devotees coming from outside leave with sweet memories. Expressing satisfaction with the district administration's preparations, Mr. Sharma directed that no shortcomings be allowedRevenue Minister Shri Tankaram Verma, Raipur MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, and former MLA Shri Shivratan Sharma also shared their suggestions at the meeting. District Panchayat President Akanksha Jaiswal, Collector Deepak Soni, Superintendent of Police Bhavna Gupta, DFO Ganveer Dhammasheel, District President Anand Yadav, CEO Ms. Divya Agrawal, SDM Atul Shetty, and other officials were present.

00 Chief Minister launches e-Pragati portal
00 5 departments and 5 districts receive Chief Minister's Excellence Award for good governance and innovation
Raipur. Good governance should not be limited to papers, but should be visible in the positive changes in the lives of the people and in the work of the officials. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said this while addressing the Chief Minister's Excellence Award 2025-26 programme organized in the capital city of Naya Raipur today.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai honored 5 departments and 5 districts with the Chief Minister's Excellence Award for good governance and innovations in the Chief Minister's Excellence Award 2025-26 organized by the Good Governance and Convergence Department. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also launched the e-Pragati portal, through which construction works costing more than Rs 25 crore of all departments of Chhattisgarh will now be monitored. Through this portal, all aspects including construction approval, budget, wages, payment, MIS, structure level will be monitored by the Chief Minister's Office.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the objective of good governance is to ensure that the last person in society does not have to wander for basic services. Through the Atal Digital Seva Kendras established in the Panchayats, villagers are now getting access to services like Aadhaar, pension, banking, and bill payment at one place. Our government has taken several initiatives to ensure effective access to good governance for citizens through technological innovations. In this regard, the e-Pragati portal was launched today, which aims to make the implementation of the state's major projects and schemes more effective, transparent, and timely. This portal will provide real-time data on the progress of schemes. It will establish better coordination between all departments, the district administration, and the Chief Minister's Office. This will further strengthen e-governance in the state and ensure timely and seamless access to benefits of schemes to citizens. He directed all collectors, secretaries, and concerned officials to regularly update the progress of schemes. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that through the Integral Humanism of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay ji, the concept of Antyodaya of respected Atal ji and the leadership of the successful Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, we have understood good governance deeply.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that we have created the country's first Good Governance and Convergence Department, which is the hub for coordination and effective implementation of all schemes. In the last two years, we have implemented over 400 policy reforms, eliminated old, useless rules and regulations, and amended many. These reforms have simplified the lives of the people of the state and made administration more efficient. Today, innovative efforts from five districts and five departments have been honored through the Chief Minister's Excellence Awards. This will encourage officers who perform well. From next year, these awards will be presented in eight different areas, including e-governance, service delivery, rural and urban development. This clearly demonstrates the development of a strong culture of innovation and good governance in Chhattisgarh.
Chief Minister Sai said that the Initiative and Prerana schemes are being launched to promote innovation in governance. Initiative will support new ideas, and Prerana will expand successful schemes. Soon, the Chief Minister's Helpline will also be launched, which will strengthen grievance redressal and public participation. To improve service delivery, procedures are being simplified, and the Public Service Guarantee Act is being developed as LSG-2.0.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that in these changing times, technology has become a part of life. Therefore, recognizing the power of digital resources, we have made technology a key tool for good governance. Making all citizen services available online is our top priority. E-Office has ensured both speed and transparency in government work. Files now move at a single click, instead of weeks or months. This has also ensured accountability of employees and officials and reduced the scope for corruption. E-Office, which began in the Ministry, has now been implemented in departmental offices as well. In the coming months, it will be implemented in all divisions and districts as well.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel's honoring officers and employees for outstanding work in e-Office is a commendable initiative, bringing about a positive change in work culture. Biometric attendance is also being implemented in all offices in a phased manner. Chief Minister Sai said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has become one of the world's largest economies, a key factor behind which is good governance. India's global leadership in digital payments is also a result of good governance.

He said that the mineral transportation permit system has been made online, curbing corruption and securing resources for development projects. Similarly, government procurement has been integrated with the GeM portal, increasing transparency and competition. He directed officials to ensure timeliness and transparency in procurement processes.
Chief Minister Sai stated that 10 revolutionary initiatives undertaken in the Registration Department now enable citizens to register from the comfort of their homes. Under the new Industrial Policy, investment proposals worth over ₹7.83 lakh crore were received last year. Investors are being granted expedited approvals and clearances through the Single Window System 2.0. Chief Minister Sai stated that 41 lakh applications were resolved through village-to-village visits through Good Governance Festival. This is a strong example of public participation. He emphasized that letters and applications from MPs and MLAs should be resolved in a timely manner. Communication, coordination, and feedback are essential for good governance.
Chief Minister Shri Sai emphasized that effective implementation of schemes in Naxal-affected areas is essential, along with strengthening law and order. Proper communication of the government's decisions and achievements is equally important. He stated that under the Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision, a clear roadmap has been prepared to make the state prosperous and developed by reviewing the goals by 2030. Addressing the event, Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel congratulated all the teams participating in the awards process. 
The district category winning innovation,
Dantewada district's blockchain-based land records digitization initiative, stood out as a prime example. This innovation eliminated manual and paperwork processes and implemented a blockchain-based tamper-proof system, reducing the time to obtain land records from weeks to just minutes. This initiative completely eliminated document fraud and accelerated service delivery, setting a new standard for revenue administration in tribal and remote areas.
Jashpur district's Nirman Jashpur initiative demonstrated how integrated digital monitoring can effectively implement infrastructure projects. Covering over 7,300 projects across 16 departments and 444 gram panchayats, the system enabled real-time monitoring, geo-tagged verification and GIS-based planning, improving the quality of work and significantly reducing delays.

The Enhanced Take-Home Ration (A-THR) innovation implemented in the Mohla-Manpur-Ambagadh outpost provided an effective solution to the challenge of severe malnutrition. Developed in collaboration with national and international institutions, this nutrient-dense diet achieved a 77.5 percent improvement rate among severely malnourished children. This initiative exemplifies how evidence-based nutrition interventions can bring positive changes to lives at scale.
The Elephant Tracking and Alert app in Gariaband district powerfully highlighted the role of technology in reducing human-wildlife conflict. Through AI-based tracking and real-time alerts, human casualties were reduced to almost zero, while crop damage and compensation burdens were significantly reduced. This initiative, which has been adopted outside the state, has become an effective model of conflict-sensitive governance.
The Intify Intelligence tool in Narayanpur district demonstrates the utility of data integration in the field of internal security. This real-time, geospatial, and predictive platform enabled the conduct of over 100 planned operations, improved coordination among various agencies, and strengthened situational awareness in Left Wing Extremism-affected areas. Similarly, in the
Departmental
category, the Education Department's Vidya Samiksha Kendra emerged as a strong pillar of data-driven education governance. This AI-enabled platform monitors over 56,000 schools, 283,000 teachers, and 5.75 million students, enabling early identification of dropouts, better resource utilization, and evidence-based decision-making.
The Commerce and Industry Department's One Click Single Window System has made significant progress in improving ease of doing business. Integrating 136 services across 16 departments, the system simplified approval, promotion, grievance redressal, and inspection processes, reducing delays and enhancing investor confidence through transparency.
The Commercial Tax (Excise) Department's comprehensive e-governance reform initiative strengthened revenue collection and compliance. Through end-to-end digitization, a track and trace system, and a real-time dashboard, the department generated revenues of ₹5,425 crore and set new standards for transparency and regulatory oversight.
The Forest and Climate Change Department's FDS 2.0 - e-Kuber Digital Payment System - eliminated manual check-based processes, implementing a completely cashless, RBI-integrated payment system. It completed 1.8 million transactions worth over ₹1,776 crore, ensuring timely wage payments, livelihood security, and transparent fund flow, even in remote and Naxal-affected forest areas.
The Panchayat and Rural Development Department's QR code-based information self-disclosure system implemented under MNREGA strengthened citizen-centric governance. By providing villagers with real-time scheme information through QR codes, this initiative reduced dependence on intermediaries and strengthened transparency in over 11,000 gram panchayats.
The welcome address at the event was delivered by Mr. Rahul Bhagat, Secretary, Department of Good Governance and Convergence, and the vote of thanks was given by Mr. Mayank Agarwal, Joint Secretary. Present on the occasion were DGP Mr. Arun Dev Gautam, Additional Chief Secretary Mrs. Richa Sharma, SCS Home Mr. Manoj Pingua, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Subodh Singh, Principal Secretary Mrs. Niharika Barik, Director, Department of Good Governance and Convergence Mr. Rajat Bansal, and other senior officials.
Through all these innovations, it is clear that governance in Chhattisgarh is not limited to mere implementation of schemes; rather, a new administrative culture focused on results, impact, and citizen trust is developing. These districts and departments honored under the Chief Minister's Excellence Awards 2025-26 are setting new standards in good governance, transparency, technological innovation, and public welfare. These achievements not only demonstrate the capabilities of the state's administrative machinery but also reinforce the government's firm commitment to a developed Chhattisgarh and a clear vision for the future.

Raipur. The School Education Department has promoted officers and employees to various positions at the district, division, and state levels since the 2024-25 session. Those eligible officers and employees who were denied promotion due to some reason during this process are now being promoted through a review DPC.

In this regard, the Directorate of Public Instruction (DPI) has issued a letter to all Joint Directors (JDs) across the state. The letter directs that all representations received against promotions be properly examined, and eligible cases be resolved, and a list of names be sent for the review DPC.

The DPI has clarified that if any eligible officer or employee is left out of the promotions made at the district, division, and state level, they will be promoted through a review DPC. Instructions have been given to ensure that in cases where promotions are to be made by the Director or the state government, the eligible representations are examined and sent to the Director of Public Instruction for the review DPC.

Federation placed pending demands
Meanwhile, a delegation led by the provincial president of Chhattisgarh Sahayak Shikshak Samagra Shikshak Federation, Ravindra Rathore, met the DPI. During this, pending demands of teachers and employees were discussed and a demand was made for their early resolution.

The Federation has especially demanded that the representations received for promotion through Review DPC be considered seriously and all eligible teachers and employees be included in the Review DPC. The Federation says that the employees who have been waiting for promotion for a long time should now get justice.

Raipur . The list of promotions and new postings for sub-engineers in the Chhattisgarh Public Health Engineering Department has been released. According to the departmental order, officers working in various districts of the state have been assigned new responsibilities.

According to the list released:
Vinod Kumar Singh has been transferred from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Dongargarh (Mechanical) to Public Health Engineering, Rajnandgaon (Civil) Sub-Division.

Revendra Mahobia has been promoted from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Balod to Office Executive Engineer, Public Health Engineering Division Dhamtari.

Pramod Kumar Mahato has been transferred from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division No. 1 Bilaspur to Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Champa.

Damon Lal Deshmukh has been promoted from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Narayanpur to Office Executive Engineer, Public Health Engineering Division Narayanpur.

Roopchand Suryavanshi has been promoted from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Kurud to Office Executive Engineer, Public Health Engineering Division Gariaband.

Satyanarayan Singh Kanwar has been posted from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Korba to Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Korba itself.

Vimlesh Kumar Singh has been transferred from Office Assistant Engineer, Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Pratappur to Public Health Engineering Sub-Division Wadrafnagar.

The department says that these promotions and transfers will speed up administrative work and will help in better implementation of works related to water supply.