Raipur: Rain is expected to continue in Chhattisgarh for the next two days. The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for heavy rain in various areas of northern Chhattisgarh.

However, there are signs that the intensity and scope of rainfall in the state will gradually decrease after August 8. According to meteorologists, the monsoon remains normal for now.

During the past 24 hours, light to moderate rain was recorded across most parts of the state, while some areas of northern Chhattisgarh experienced heavy rainfall. The continuous rain also caused waterlogging in many areas.

People faced problems due to waterlogging in Galaxy Green Society located in Raipur assembly constituency.

According to the Meteorological Department data, Raipur and Durg were the hottest cities in the state on Thursday, where the maximum temperature was recorded at 33.2 degrees Celsius.

Pendra Road was the coldest, recording a minimum temperature of 22 degrees Celsius. Raipur is expected to remain cloudy on Friday, with isolated rain showers and thunderstorms. The city's maximum temperature is expected to be 33 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature is expected to be 26 degrees Celsius.

From June 1 to August 5, the state recorded an average of 589.3 mm of rainfall, compared to the normal average of 634.9 mm. Thus, rainfall has fallen about 7 percent below normal, which the Meteorological Department still considers normal.

Experts say that the coming rains will be crucial for Kharif crops. In districts that have received less than normal rainfall so far, good rainfall will provide relief to agricultural activities and improve the monsoon balance.

Mohla-Manpur. The presence of a tiger in Chhattisgarh's Mohla-Manpur district has once again spread panic among the villagers. In Nideli village of Aundhi (Navagaon) sub-forest range of Manpur block, a tiger attacked a bull grazing in the field. The forest department provided treatment to the seriously injured bull, but it died due to severe injuries. After the incident, the forest department has increased surveillance in the area, installed trap cameras and advised the villagers to remain alert.

According to reports, farmer Dasru Ram was tilling his field when a tiger suddenly attacked his bull, which was some distance away. After the attack, the tiger fled into the forest. Forest officials who arrived at the scene also found tiger footprints, confirming its presence.

While investigating the incident, patrolling forest officials also encountered the tiger. It was reported that the tiger approached very close, but the forest officials, with their vigilance, managed to escape to safety. Trap cameras have been installed near the dead cattle to monitor the tiger's movements.

Villagers say tigers have been spotted several times in the Aundhi area over the past year. This is the third incident in the past two months where a tiger has preyed on cattle near Nideli village. One villager said he spotted the tiger sitting on a rock near a field and chased it back into the forest by making noise and using dogs.

Upon receiving information about the incident, Divisional Forest Officer Dinesh Patel arrived at the scene. He met with the affected farmer and directed him to initiate the compensation process. Forest department teams are continuously patrolling the area and urging people to remain vigilant and not venture into the forest alone.

Bilaspur. The malaria outbreak in Chhattisgarh remains a cause for concern. A woman has died from malaria in the Kota area of ​​Bilaspur district. Rekha Baiga, a 37-year-old resident of Aurapani village, died during treatment at SIMS Hospital in Bilaspur. The incident has raised questions about the health department's preparedness and malaria control campaign.

According to reports, when Rekha Baiga's health deteriorated, she was tested for malaria, which was confirmed. She was then admitted to the Ganiyari Primary Health Center (PHC). As her condition worsened, doctors referred her to SIMS Hospital, where she died during treatment.

Meanwhile, another new malaria patient was found during a health camp held in the affected area on Thursday. The continued emergence of new cases has raised concerns among residents of the Kota region. Health department teams are conducting village camps, testing people, distributing medicines, and conducting awareness campaigns, but the spread of the infection appears to be slowing.

Previously, two schoolchildren died of malaria in Kanker district. Now, with the death of a Baiga woman in Bilaspur, the number of malaria deaths in the state has risen. Experts say that the increased mosquito population during the rainy season increases the risk of infection. Therefore, timely testing, treatment, and preventive measures are crucial.

The health department has urged people to get tested immediately if they develop a fever, use mosquito nets, and maintain cleanliness around them. Surveys and surveillance have been intensified in affected areas to prevent the spread of the infection.

79.70 acres of land approved by the State Council of Ministers

Raipur, August 2026/ Mungeli district has achieved a historic milestone on Chhattisgarh's industrial map. The state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, has approved a proposal to allot 79.70 acres of government land at a concessional rate for Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) to set up its proposed heavy earthmoving equipment manufacturing plant in Chandragadhi village, Patharia tehsil, Mungeli district.

The first plant in the state

This will be the first heavy earthmoving equipment (heavy machinery) manufacturing plant of its kind in Chhattisgarh. The plant will be located in village Chandragadhi (Patharia tehsil), just 30 kilometers from the Bilaspur-Raipur National Highway. The arrival of BEML, a public sector undertaking, will provide direct employment and technical training to local youth, as well as a major boost to supporting industries such as MSMEs, logistics, transportation, and spare parts manufacturing.

Mungeli got the project due to special efforts

Patharia SDM Mrs. Rekha Chandra stated that the process of identifying land for the THMD plant was initially underway in Raigarh and Janjgir-Champa districts. Meanwhile, under the guidance of Collector Mr. Kundan Kumar, a joint team from the District Trade and Industry Center and the Revenue Department took prompt action, located 79.70 acres of suitable government land, and submitted a proposal to the government, which has now been approved by the cabinet.

The Collector congratulated the people of the district.

Collector Shri Kundan Kumar congratulated the district residents on this achievement and said that the BEML plant will become a new hub for modern manufacturing and engineering activities in Mungeli. This decision will prove to be a milestone in creating a foundation for industrial development in the district and opening up new employment opportunities for the youth.

Peepal for People’ Campaign Begins with Plantation of Over 2,500 Peepal Saplings Across 15 Acres

Join the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign and Take a Pledge to Protect Nature: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, August , 2026/Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated Van Mahotsav 2026 by planting a Peepal sapling in his mother’s name during a large-scale plantation programme held in Nava Raipur on August 5. He also launched the statewide “Peepal for People” campaign, under which more than 2,500 Peepal saplings were planted across nearly 15 acres. On the occasion, he appealed to the people of the state to join the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and actively contribute to environmental conservation by planting and protecting more trees.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that protecting nature is not only an environmental necessity but also a responsibility towards India’s cultural heritage and future generations. He said that trees have always been regarded as life-givers in Indian culture, while the Peepal tree symbolises faith, spiritual consciousness, and environmental conservation. He added that the Peepal is considered among the highest oxygen-producing trees and plays an important role in preserving biodiversity.

Shri Sai said that the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on World Environment Day, June 5, 2024, has grown into a nationwide people’s movement by linking environmental conservation with respect for mothers. He said the campaign has strengthened society’s emotional connection with nature and inspired greater environmental responsibility. In Chhattisgarh, more than 7 crore saplings have been planted over the past two years, while the State has set a target of planting 2.5 crore saplings this year.

Emphasising that tree plantation is meaningful only when saplings are nurtured and protected, the Chief Minister urged citizens to plant a tree in their mother’s name at their homes, farms, schools, workplaces, or any suitable open space and take responsibility for its care. He said every sapling planted today will contribute to clean air, a healthier environment, and a secure future.

Highlighting the growing challenge of climate change, Shri Sai said rising temperatures, pollution, and increasing pressure on natural resources have become serious global concerns. In such circumstances, he said, tree plantation remains one of the simplest and most effective solutions. He urged every citizen to plant and protect at least one tree every year to bring about meaningful environmental change.

The Chief Minister also referred to the lifelong pledge of Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to plant one sapling every day. He said that even when outdoor plantation is not possible, Shri Chouhan fulfils his commitment by planting a sapling in a pot, describing it as an inspiring example of dedication and discipline towards nature that can motivate society to adopt similar practices.

Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign is being expanded across the state with active public participation. He said the “Peepal for People” campaign is not merely a plantation drive but a commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and healthier future.

Effective Implementation of PESA and Forest Rights Act Among State Government’s Priorities: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

State-Level Action Plan Committee to Coordinate Departmental Rules; District-Level PESA Monitoring Committees to Be Activated

Raipur, August, 2026/The first meeting of the apex committee of the task force constituted for the effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) was held at Mahanadi Bhawan on August 5 under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai. The meeting reviewed strategies to ensure effective implementation of both laws at the grassroots level and promote comprehensive and sustainable development in the Scheduled Areas of Chhattisgarh.

Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that the effective implementation of the PESA Act and the Forest Rights Act is among the State Government’s top priorities. He directed officials to ensure that the PESA Act becomes an effective instrument for strengthening village self-governance, protecting natural resources, increasing community participation, and reinforcing the rural economy. Noting that nearly one-third of Chhattisgarh’s population belongs to tribal communities, he said the government is committed to developing an exemplary implementation model while safeguarding tribal traditions, rights, and development.

The Chief Minister said the PESA Act safeguards the interests of people living in Scheduled Areas by strengthening Gram Sabhas, improving local resource management, expanding employment opportunities, and promoting balanced and sustainable development. He added that the government’s objective is to ensure that development and public participation progress together.

Emphasising the need for better convergence, Shri Sai said effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act and the PESA Act requires close coordination at every level. He directed officials to adopt an integrated approach in implementing both laws so that the benefits of government schemes reach the last eligible beneficiary. He also announced that a State-Level Action Plan Committee will be constituted to coordinate the rules and procedures framed by different departments under the PESA Act and ensure convergence among them. The committee, comprising ministers and secretaries of the concerned departments, will prepare a time-bound action plan and monitor its implementation.

The Chief Minister further directed that the existing District-Level PESA Monitoring Committees be activated to strengthen Gram Sabhas, improve coordination among departments at the district level, and ensure effective implementation of the PESA Act. He also instructed officials to conduct public awareness campaigns, disseminate accurate information, and address misconceptions through factual communication.

The meeting reviewed the implementation status of the Chhattisgarh Panchayat Provisions (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Rules, 2022, along with the progress of individual and community claims received, disposed of, and pending under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. Detailed discussions were also held on the recognition, conservation, and management of Community Forest Resource Rights (CFRR) and the process of converting forest villages into revenue villages.

Date: 05 August 2026 Several important decisions were taken in the cabinet meeting held today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan –

1. The Council of Ministers approved the "Chhattisgarh State Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission." The mission aims to promote good governance, new technology, skill development, and the digital economy in the state. This mission will be implemented over a period of five years, with an outlay of ₹500 crore.

Under this mission, 100 AI data labs will be created, 5 Centers of Excellence will be established, over 300 AI startups will be supported, 600,000 students and 150,000 government employees will be trained in AI. Over 50 AI-based services will be developed to simplify and speed up governance.

This mission is a significant step towards establishing Chhattisgarh as a responsive, innovation-driven and future-oriented digital state in line with the IndiaAI Mission of the Government of India.

2. The Cabinet approved a proposal to allot land at a concessional rate to Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) for the establishment of a Heavy Earth Moving Equipment manufacturing plant in Chhattisgarh. BEML is a prestigious Miniratna Public Sector Undertaking of the Government of India. This will be the state's first heavy earth moving equipment manufacturing plant. Its establishment will establish Chhattisgarh on the national industrial map and mark the beginning of a modern heavy machinery manufacturing industry in the state.

This important decision by the Council of Ministers will encourage major investment in the state, create new employment opportunities for local youth, and directly and indirectly benefit micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Establishing the plant in the state will accelerate industrial development, strengthen the local economy, and position Chhattisgarh as an important manufacturing hub.

3. The Cabinet has approved the first phase of implementation of the Works and Account Management Information System (WAMIS) for digital management of construction works in the Public Works Department. Through this system, all processes such as work approval, e-estimation, e-procurement, e-Measurement Book (e-MB), bill payment, accounting management, and quality monitoring will be conducted on a unified digital platform. Developed by C-DAC, Pune, this system will be implemented first in the Public Works Department and then expanded to other construction and infrastructure departments. This will increase transparency in construction works, speed up payment processes, enable real-time monitoring of works, and make project implementation more effective and accountable.

4. The Cabinet approved amendments to the guidelines issued for the construction of all-weather roads under the Chief Minister's Village Road and Development Scheme. The amendments eliminate the requirement for the construction of concrete roads and drains in rural interior streets and for soil work under MNREGA prior to road construction. The scheme's eligibility has been expanded to include all rural roads not covered under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana or other schemes. Financial resources can also be made available, as needed, from NABARD loans, the Environment and Infrastructure Development Fund, and the Mineral Trust Fund, among other sources. Administrative departments will approve the works, and a state-level high-powered committee will be formed to review implementation and coordinate interdepartmental coordination.

5. The Council of Ministers has approved the proposal of the Finance Department, under which a full grant of Rs 15 crore will be obtained from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the technical assistance project “Anjor LIGHT (Anjor Linked Implementation & Guidance for Holistic Tracking)” for the implementation of Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047. This is a three-year (1 December 2026 to 30 November 2029) multi-sectoral project, in which there will be no financial contribution from the State Government or the Government of India.

The project will strengthen public financial management, develop the PPP ecosystem, promote green and blended finance, improve the efficiency of state public sector enterprises (SOEs), develop climate-resilient projects, and create a pipeline of priority projects in line with the Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047. A Project Management Unit (PMU) will be established for this purpose.

Being a completely grant-based project, it will not impose any additional financial burden on the state and will accelerate institutional capacity building, investment promotion and achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

6. The Council of Ministers approved a proposal to implement the State Single Nodal Agency (S-SNA) model for state schemes. This new system aims to ensure more transparent, secure, and effective use of government scheme funds. Scheme funds will no longer remain idle in various bank accounts for long periods of time; instead, they will be disbursed directly to beneficiaries or vendors as needed through a centralized mother account. This model will be implemented in state schemes, similar to the SNA system implemented by the Government of India in centrally sponsored schemes, further strengthening transparency, accountability, and good governance in governance.

This system will enable real-time monitoring of scheme implementation, strengthen financial discipline, and effectively control potential issues such as idle funds, embezzlement, and banking fraud. Additionally, it will improve the state's cash management capabilities, reduce unnecessary interest burden, and ensure optimal utilization of available financial resources.

7. The Council of Ministers approved a proposal to list Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company Limited (CSPGCL) on the stock exchange by issuing non-convertible debentures (NCDs)/bonds worth up to ₹200 crore, with the aim of increasing public and institutional investor participation. This decision will provide the company with new financial resources, encourage investment in the energy sector, and further accelerate the state's power infrastructure development.

The state government will provide a guarantee for the payment of principal and interest, including a waiver of the guarantee fee. Furthermore, the company's board of directors has been authorized to make necessary decisions related to the listing process, and the Energy Department has been authorized to issue necessary directives.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai said that farming is not just a means of livelihood, but it is the foundation of Chhattisgarh's culture, economy and social life.

The State Government is promoting expansion of irrigation facilities, crop diversification, modern agricultural technology, agricultural mechanization and agriculture-based enterprises to increase the income of farmers.

The Chief Minister was addressing a dialogue program on "Farmers and Farming - Incentives and Results" held in the capital Raipur. During the program, he also honored progressive farmers from various districts.

The Chief Minister said that coming from a family of farmers, he has seen the challenges of farming firsthand. He added that since the formation of the government, the promises made to farmers have been fulfilled on priority.

Today, 21 quintals of paddy per acre is being purchased from farmers in the state at a rate of Rs 3,100 per quintal. Farmers were also given bonuses for two years' pending purchases. In the last Kharif season, a record 141 lakh metric tons of paddy was purchased from approximately 2.5 million farmers.

He said that farmers will no longer be limited to just paddy. Farmers cultivating crops like pulses, oilseeds, maize, and kodo-kutki will receive an input subsidy of 15,000 rupees per acre. Activities like horticulture, animal husbandry, dairy, and fisheries are also being encouraged.

The Chief Minister stated that work is progressing rapidly on new irrigation projects, barrages, and canal expansions. Irrigation projects worth thousands of crores of rupees have been approved in Bastar, including the Matnar and Deurgaon barrages and the Sikasar-Kodar canal linking project.

He said that modern technology is changing the face of agriculture. Women in the state are becoming "Drone Didi" (drone sisters) to spray nano DAP, while youth are becoming attracted to modern agriculture and agriculture-based startups.

The Chief Minister said that the aim of the government is to economically empower the farmers by making farming a profitable business.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai said that the life of Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Maharaj gives the immortal message of harmony, equality, devotion, labour and social justice.

Even today his thoughts show the society the path of humanity and equal rights by rising above discrimination.

The Chief Minister participated in the Kalash Vandan Maha Abhiyan organized to commemorate the 650th birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas at the Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in the capital Raipur.

During this, he worshipped the Kalash filled with holy soil and water brought from Sir Govardhanpur in Varanasi and described it as a symbol of social harmony and national unity.

At the event, the Chief Minister made several important announcements in honor of Guru Ravidas. He announced that in 2027, Guru Ravidas Jayanti (Maghi Purnima) will be a public holiday throughout the state.

The sale of meat and alcohol will be completely banned throughout the state on this day. Furthermore, a new State Decoration Award, named after Guru Ravidas, will be instituted as part of the State Decoration Awards presented on State Foundation Day. A prominent square in Naya Raipur will also be named after Saint Guru Ravidas.

The Chief Minister said that a discussion will be held with the Assembly Speaker to get Guru Ravidas's famous couplet "Aisa Chahun Raj Main..." inscribed in the Assembly.

He said that whenever injustice and discrimination increased in society, saints and great men gave society a new direction. Guru Ravidas's message still paves the way for social harmony and spiritual awakening.

The Chief Minister said that in accordance with the mantra of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 'Development as well as Heritage', the state government is committed to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Describing the Kalash Vandan campaign as a mass movement for social harmony, he expressed confidence that it would spread the ideas of Saint Ravidas to every village and every home. Several ministers, MLAs, representatives of the saint community, and a large number of devotees were present at the event.

Raipur. Raipur. An important meeting of the State Council of Ministers will be held on Wednesday (August 5) under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan.

Many important proposals related to state development, agriculture, rural development, industry, and investment are likely to be discussed in this meeting. It is believed that the cabinet may approve several important decisions related to public interest, which could bring new gifts to the people of the state.

Although the official agenda of the meeting has not been released by the state government yet, various departments have prepared their respective proposals.

Among these, the topics related to infrastructure development, new schemes in the interest of farmers, development of rural areas, promotion of industries and attracting investment are being considered important.

According to sources, proposals related to financial approvals for several departments may also be considered at the meeting. Approval of these proposals is expected to accelerate development work in the state.

Besides, some important decisions can also be taken to promote employment generation and industrial investment.

The Cabinet meeting is also likely to deliberate on issues related to the draft of new bills, administrative reforms and making the governance system more effective.

The state government has been making decisions in recent months in areas such as investment, energy, sports policy, and administrative simplification. Therefore, new proposals related to these sectors may also be approved.

The state is closely watching this cabinet meeting. Official information about the decisions taken at the meeting will be released after the cabinet meeting.

Raipur. The monsoon has once again picked up speed in Chhattisgarh. The Meteorological Department has forecast an increase in rainfall activity across the state for the next four days, starting August 4th.

Light to moderate rain is likely in most districts, while warning of heavy to very heavy rain, thunderstorm and lightning has been issued in one or two areas of North Chhattisgarh.

The Meteorological Department has appealed to people to remain alert and stay in safe places during bad weather.

During the last 24 hours, good rainfall was recorded in many parts of the state, due to which the rainfall deficit in this monsoon season has reduced to only 7 percent less than normal.

The capital city of Raipur recorded a maximum temperature of 33.5 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 27.3 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, which were 3.9 and 3 degrees above normal, respectively. The city recorded 0.5 mm of rainfall in the morning.

According to the Meteorological Department, the active monsoon trough and two cyclonic circulation systems are continuously bringing moisture to the state. Consequently, rainfall will continue in most areas for the next four days.

On Wednesday, Raipur is expected to have generally cloudy sky with thundershowers and maximum temperature around 33 degrees Celsius.

In terms of rainfall data, Shankargarh recorded the highest rainfall of 11 cm in the last 24 hours. Kusmi, Ratanpur, Sakti, Bhopalpatnam, and Beltara also received 7 cm of rain each.

At the same time, good rainfall was also recorded in many other areas including Sukma, Bijapur, Bhairamgarh, Karpavand, Chhal, Barmkela and Sariya.

The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rain and lightning for the next two to three days, especially in the districts of northern Chhattisgarh. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary exposure and to follow the weather department's advisories.

Bilaspur: The Chhattisgarh High Court has given an important decision regarding the Right to Information (RTI) and the right to personal privacy.

A single bench of the High Court has clarified that personal documents like marriage registration application, date of birth, address, photograph, Aadhaar or other identity card of a person cannot be made available to any third party under RTI unless there is a solid basis of wider public interest behind it.

A single bench of Justice Sachin Singh Rajput said that the purpose of the RTI Act is to bring transparency in government functioning, but it cannot be used to obtain personal information of any citizen.

Citing Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, the court said that personal information can be disclosed only if there is a larger public interest involved.

The case pertained to a petition filed by Ambikapur resident DK Soni, seeking through RTI, copies of marriage registration applications, orders and attached identity cards of two persons from Surajpur district.

Rejecting this demand, the High Court talked about giving constitutional protection to the confidentiality of personal documents.

During the hearing, the court also expressed displeasure with the attitude of the State Information Commission, stating that the commission's role is not merely to advise officials on training, but to determine whether the information sought is legally available.

On this basis, the High Court cancelled the order of the Information Commission.

The court has directed the State Information Commission to hear both the parties and give a fresh and legally compliant decision in the matter within 90 days.

This decision is being considered an important judicial order regarding the protection of personal data, clarity on the scope of RTI and accountability of appellate bodies.

Raipur, August 2026/ The meeting of the committee constituted for the implementation and monitoring of Sustainable Alternatives Scheme (SATAT) towards affordable transportation in Chhattisgarh state was held today at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary of Energy Department and Chief Minister, Mr. Subodh Singh. In the meeting, extensive discussions were held regarding the production of Compressed Biogas (CBG) from waste and biogas and using it as fuel. Officials informed that all necessary work is being done for setting up CBG plants by identifying land in the districts. Chhattisgarh CBG Policy 2026 is being implemented in the state. For this, the roles and responsibilities of various departments of the state government have been determined.

The meeting discussed the establishment of CBG plants and how to encourage entrepreneurs and investors to invest in them. Officials informed the meeting that the Sustainable Alternatives to Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme is an initiative of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. Officials stated that this scheme is implemented nationwide, including in Chhattisgarh. Under the scheme, oil marketing companies (OMC and ONGC) such as Indian Oil, BPCL, and PCL contract to purchase the CBG produced from these plants. Installing CBG plants can reduce air pollution caused by rotting farm stubble, paddy straw, and garbage. This will provide farmers with additional income from their agricultural residues and animal waste, and increase employment opportunities in rural areas. The meeting also reviewed the progress of establishing CBG plants in various municipalities and corporations across the state.

It was informed at the meeting that new efforts are being made in Chhattisgarh as part of a plan to generate sustainable energy and improve waste management in urban bodies. Action has been initiated to install CBG plants in the urban bodies of Bhilai, Raipur, Bilaspur, Rajnandgaon, Dhamtari, Korba, Ambikapur, and Raigarh.

The meeting was attended by Transport Department Secretary Shri S. Prakash, Energy Department Secretary Shri Saransh Mittal, Panchayat and Rural Development Department Secretary Shri Bhim Singh and officials from Urban Administration and Development, Livestock Development, Environment Protection Board, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Food and Civil Supplies, Chhattisgarh Biofuel Development Authority, State Renewable Energy Development Authority, CSIDC and Oil Marketing Company.