Necessary instructions given to senior officials in the ministry for better health services

Raipur, August 2026/ Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal held an important review meeting with health department officials today at the Secretariat, Mahanadi Bhawan, Nava Raipur. The meeting discussed the current state of health services in the state in detail. During the meeting, the availability of medicines in hospitals, cleanliness arrangements, and other facilities provided to patients were closely reviewed. District-wise information was collected from officials, and emphasis was placed on ensuring that essential medicines and medical facilities reach remote and rural areas on time, so that the general public does not face any problems.

The Health Minister issued several important instructions during the review meeting to improve services and make them more people-oriented. Hospitals were instructed to maintain proper sanitation, ensure adequate availability of essential medicines, and ensure quality treatment for patients. Instructions were also given to ensure the maintenance of medical equipment, staff attendance, and sensitive treatment of patients. Officials were clearly instructed that negligence at any level in health services would not be tolerated and would be monitored regularly.

Suggestion given to publish the book in simple language

Raipur, August 18, 2026: Dr. Salim Raj, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Waqf Board, paid a courtesy call on the members of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Committee at the New Circuit House in Raipur, the capital. During this special meeting, Dr. Salim Raj informed the Committee of his idea to publish a booklet in simple language on various aspects of the UCC for the convenience and better understanding of the common citizens, so that every citizen of the state can easily understand its provisions.

Citizens can send their suggestions through these addresses and mediums

The key members of the UCC Committee have specially requested the enlightened citizens, social organizations and the general public of the state to share their suggestions for the draft of the UCC.
The UCC (Uniform Civil Code) Committee has started its work in full swing in the state. If the common citizens of the state want to give their views or suggestions regarding the Uniform Civil Code, they can use the following official address and mediums. Through e-mail, citizens can send their suggestions directly to ucc-chhattisgarh@cg.gov.in. Similarly, through the web portal, suggestions can be registered online by visiting the official portal of the committee https://ucc.cgstate.gov.in/.

Citizens of the state can submit their written suggestions by post/correspondence (Postal Address) to the office of Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Committee Room No. – 202, New Circuit House, Civil Lines, Raipur, Chhattisgarh – 492001 by speed post or ordinary post or by personally appearing and submitting the written application/memorandum.

Raipur. Following the first monsoon rains, questions have arisen about the condition of the Raipur-Visakhapatnam Bharatmala Corridor road. An inspection of approximately 106 kilometers of road in Chhattisgarh revealed deep cracks in more than 20 locations.

In many places, the road's upper layer is peeling off and the base is sinking, with complaints of patchwork visible in more than 25 locations.

The worst situation is reported to be between Dudhawa and Dhanora in Kanker. The road was even closed due to the slope and approach embankment caving in during the rains. Heavy vehicles are being diverted through narrow village roads.

The total length of this corridor in Chhattisgarh is about 124.66 km and more than Rs 4,146 crore is being spent on its construction in three packages.

NHAI officials say that the work is still in progress and the parts affected by heavy rains are being repaired.

The question is – why did the road worth thousands of crores start cracking in the first rain itself?

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai on Monday released the book 'Gajrath Yatra - Part 2' based on the public awareness campaign of Jashpur Forest Division at the Chief Minister's camp office in his native village Bagiya in Jashpur district.

The book documents efforts being made to conserve elephants, reduce human-elephant conflict, and raise awareness in affected areas.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Jashpur is a region rich in forest wealth and biodiversity. Therefore, ensuring safe coexistence between humans and wildlife is crucial.

He said that incidents of conflict can be reduced by making people aware about the natural behaviour of elephants and their roaming areas.

The Chief Minister said that the government is continuously working to protect public safety as well as forest and wildlife. He praised the "Gajrath Yatra" campaign, saying that this initiative is playing a vital role in raising awareness and vigilance among people in elephant-affected areas.

This campaign, run by the Jashpur Forest Division, is reaching villages and schools. Villagers and students are being informed about elephant behavior, their habitats, food, and roaming areas.

People are also being made aware to maintain a safe distance from elephants and to immediately inform the forest department in case of emergency.

The book covers in detail the Forest Department's various activities, rural participation, and public awareness programs. The campaign aims to dispel misconceptions about elephants and foster a scientific and practical mindset among the public.

The Forest Department is also using modern technology to monitor elephant movements. Information about elephant presence is being disseminated to villagers through the "Raj Sanket" app.

During this event, the Chief Minister honored forest officers and employees for their outstanding work by presenting them with certificates of appreciation. Collector Rohit Vyas, Divisional Forest Officer Shashi Kumar, and other officials were present at the event.

Raipur. On the auspicious occasion of Sawan month and Nagpanchami, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, along with his family, offered prayers to Lord Bholenath at the Shri Faleshwarnath Mahadev Temple in his native village Bagiya on Monday.

The Chief Minister, along with his wife Kaushalya Sai and other family members, performed Rudrabhishek as per the rituals and prayed for happiness, peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of the state.

A special religious event for the construction and worship of 1 lakh 11 thousand 111 earthen Shivlingas is being organised from 17th to 19th August at Shri Faleshvarnath Mahadev Temple situated on the banks of Mani River.

The Chief Minister and his wife, along with devotees, constructed a Parthiva Shivalinga and performed an abhishekam to Lord Shiva. The temple complex reverberated with Vedic chants and chants of "Har Har Mahadev."

The Chief Minister, while extending greetings to the people of the state on Nag Panchami and the month of Sawan, said that Lord Shiva is a symbol of public welfare and well-being. He prayed that Mahadev's blessings remain upon every family in the state and that the farmers' fields and barns prosper.

He said that nature and faith are deeply connected in Indian culture. Rivers, forests, mountains, and the living world are an important part of our tradition. The month of Sawan gives us the message of nature conservation, service, and public welfare.

The three-day religious event is seeing significant enthusiasm in Bagiya and surrounding areas. Devotees are arriving in large numbers to construct earthen Shivalingas and participate in the worship of Lord Shiva.

Various religious programs, including worship, abhishekam, aarti, purnahuti, and prasad distribution, are being held during the event. The ritual will conclude with a special purnahuti on August 19th.

Through the construction and collective worship of 111,111 earthen Shivlingas, a pledge was made for the state's prosperity, peace, and public welfare. This event has transformed Bagiya into a center of devotion to Shiva and spiritual consciousness.

Raipur. The Gram Sabhas to be held in Raipur on August 20 will not be mere formal meetings this time, but will become a medium to decide the direction of development of villages.

Important proposals related to rural development will be discussed in the Gram Sabhas organized for the effective implementation of Vikasit Bharat-Employment and Livelihood Guarantee Mission (Gramin) i.e. VB-GRAMJI.

Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai has already clarified that all development works to be undertaken under the scheme will be selected with the approval of the Gram Sabha.

The state will receive around Rs 6,855 crore through MNREGA and VB-Giramji in the financial year 2026-27, which is considered to be the biggest financial investment ever in the field of rural development.

In Gram Sabhas, villagers will be informed about the scheme's provisions, rights, benefits, and permitted works. Development works for the upcoming financial year will be selected and approved based on local needs and demand from villagers.

There will also be a special discussion on the "My Daughter, My Pride" campaign launched by the Chief Minister. This campaign, which will run from August 15, 2026, to January 26, 2027, will include works such as the construction of village crematoriums, waiting rooms, and toilets for girls in government schools.

Under the scheme, 318 works are included in four categories: 107 for water conservation and enhancement, 90 for rural infrastructure, 86 for livelihood enhancement, and 35 for climate adaptation and disaster management. Priority will be given to works such as ponds, check dams, roads, culverts, panchayat buildings, anganwadis, libraries, and waste management.

Additionally, the process of developing a comprehensive Gram Panchayat plan will begin on October 2nd. Suggestions will be sought from villagers at Gram Sabhas on August 20th. The government's goal is not only to provide employment, but also to build self-reliant and developed villages through local participation.

Raipur . The Pradhan Mantri Jan Man Yojana (PMJAY) is proving to be a significant initiative towards expanding basic amenities in forest areas and areas inhabited by specific tribal groups. Road construction under this scheme is also facilitating rural mobility in the forest areas of Kabirdham district. A 3-kilometer-long paved road from Mangtupura to Gudli Baigapara has been constructed at a cost of ₹19.2 million (192,90,000). The construction of the paved road has made travel easier and safer for villagers than before. They have found relief from the difficulties of commuting, especially during the rainy season. Villagers
from the Taregaon area of ​​the Bodla region said that with the acceleration of development work in forest areas under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Man Yojana, basic amenities are now reaching even remote areas. This road being constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Man Yojana (PMJAY) is opening new avenues for development and easy transportation in the forest areas. With the increased connectivity to the paved road, both convenience and confidence have increased in the lives of villagers. Residents expressed their delight at the availability of basic amenities like roads in the forest area. Villagers expressed their gratitude and thanks to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Deputy Chief Minister and Kawardha MLA Shri Vijay Sharma. A
convenient shortcut route from Gudli Baigapara to Tarengaon has been created.
Villagers reported that a better, paved, shortcut route from Gudli Baigapara to Tarengaon has been constructed through the Pradhan Mantri Janman Yojana. Previously, during the rainy season, the unpaved roads caused significant difficulties in commuting. Due to poor road conditions, the distance required longer to travel, and villagers faced numerous difficulties. Now, with the paved road, commuting has become easier. Villagers say that the road construction has not only improved transportation facilities, but also benefits people traveling for daily life, education, health services, and other essential needs.

Raipur . The State-Level Steering Committee meeting of the State Cooperative Dairy Federation Limited (CGCDF) concluded on Monday under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Vikassheel. The main objectives of the meeting were to ensure the overall development of the dairy sector in the state, increase the income of milk producers, increase the participation of women milk producers, and strengthen the milk collection and marketing infrastructure.

Special focus on Bastar and Surguja divisions
: A large number of rural and Scheduled Tribe families are involved in animal husbandry in the seven districts of Bastar division. Approximately 88% of the cows in the region are of local breeds. To increase milk productivity, emphasis is being placed on animal nutrition, animal health, breed improvement, and scientific management.

With the support of NDDB, chilling centers have been commissioned in Jashpur (2,000 liter capacity) and Balrampur (5,000 liter capacity) in Surguja division since June 2025. Currently, approximately 3,500 liters of milk is collected daily through 45 milk collection centers, with over 1,500 women producers. Under

the Direct Payment and Transparent System Project, the bills of milk producers are being paid directly into their bank accounts, due to which women are getting regular income and the rural economy is getting strengthened. In the meeting, the action report of previous meetings, human resource challenges, physical-financial progress and Dairy Comprehensive Development Plan were reviewed. On this occasion, Principal Secretary of Scheduled Tribe Development Department Sonmani Bora, Secretary of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department Siddharth Komal Pardeshi, Secretary of Finance and Public Relations Department Dr. Rohit Yadav, along with Commissioner Cooperation Ramesh Kumar Sharma, officials of State Cooperative Milk Federation and other senior officials of Cooperative Department and other members of the Federation were present.

Raipur . Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai expressed deep sorrow over the passing of senior journalist Ramesh Sharma. He said that Ramesh Sharma played a vital role in raising awareness in society through his writings. His contributions to journalism and his sensitivity towards society will always be remembered.

The Chief Minister prayed to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place in his feet and to grant the bereaved family and well-wishers the strength and courage to bear this loss.

Chief Minister honored forest workers who did excellent work in managing human-elephant conflict and protecting elephants
Raipur (VNS). Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai today released the book 'Gajrath Yatra - Part 02' based on the public awareness campaign of Jashpur Forest Division at the Chief Minister's camp office in his home village Bagiya in Jashpur district. This book documents the efforts and innovative activities being undertaken by Jashpur Forest Division to reduce human-elephant conflict, protect elephants and increase public awareness in the affected areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Jashpur is a region rich in forest wealth and biodiversity. Ensuring safe coexistence between humans and wildlife is crucial. Raising public awareness about elephants' natural behavior and their roaming areas can help reduce human-elephant conflict. He stated that forest and wildlife conservation, along with public safety, is the government's priority. Praising the "Gajrath Yatra," the Chief Minister said it is an important initiative to raise awareness and alert local communities in elephant-affected areas. The active role of local communities, along with the Forest Department, in such efforts helps strengthen human-elephant coexistence.

Collector Mr. Rohit Vyas, Divisional Forest Officer Mr. Shashi Kumar, District Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Mr. Abhishek Kumar, along with officials from the Forest Department and District Administration were present on this occasion. The
"Gajrath Yatra" is reaching villages and schools.
For the past few years, the Jashpur Forest Division has been conducting various activities in elephant-affected areas to reduce human-elephant conflict and educate villagers about safe behavior. The "Gajrath Yatra" is a comprehensive public awareness campaign launched in this direction. Through this campaign, villagers, students, and the general public are being reached in elephant-affected villages, schools, and public places to educate them about the natural behavior of elephants, their habitat, food, and roaming areas. People are also being made aware of maintaining a safe distance from elephants, avoiding unnecessary close approaches in their presence, and immediately reporting to the Forest Department in case of an emergency. The campaign aims to dispel misconceptions and fears about elephants and develop a scientific, sensitive, and practical approach towards them. Its objective is to minimize the potential for conflict, ensuring the protection of elephants while safeguarding rural communities.
A journey of conservation and public awareness documented in "Gajrath Yatra - Part 02."

"Gajrath Yatra - Part 2" comprehensively compiles various efforts being undertaken by the Jashpur Forest Division to manage human-elephant conflict and conserve elephants. The book highlights public awareness programs, the role of rural communities, engaging students in wildlife conservation, and activities that encourage safe behavior with elephants. The book also underlines the message that awareness and cooperation between local communities and ordinary citizens, along with the Forest Department, are crucial to effective wildlife conservation. Especially in elephant-affected areas, timely information, caution, and community coordination play a crucial role in protecting both humans and elephants.

Raipur. The seven-day photo exhibition organized by the Public Relations Department at the historic Town Hall at Kachari Chowk in Raipur, the capital, has become a center of attraction for citizens and students. A large number of people are arriving to see the exhibition. Even today, students and common citizens visited the exhibition with enthusiasm. The exhibition effectively presents Chhattisgarh's contribution to the freedom struggle, the struggles and sacrifices of brave soldiers, the glorious 150-year journey of the national anthem "Vande Mataram," and the state's journey to development and good governance.
Innovative heritage and tourism experiences are provided through AI technology, and knowledge about Chhattisgarh is being tested through quizzes.

The exhibition's innovative heritage and tourism experience, powered by AI technology, has been a special attraction. Through this initiative, visitors can create digital images of themselves against the backdrop of Chhattisgarh's major tourist and religious sites. Children and youth are particularly enthusiastic about this blend of modern technology and Chhattisgarh's rich cultural and tourism heritage.

In addition, a quiz program related to Chhattisgarh is being organized at the exhibition premises. Visitors can test their knowledge by participating in questions related to Chhattisgarh's history, culture, tradition, tourism, and various important aspects. The quiz provides both entertainment and an opportunity to learn more about Chhattisgarh and test their knowledge. Students and youth are particularly enthusiastic about this informative activity. The exhibition showcases rare photographs, historical documents, and significant events related to the freedom struggle. The contributions of Chhattisgarh's freedom fighters, public figures, and immortal martyrs have been given special
attention
. Important events related to Mahatma Gandhi's stay in Chhattisgarh and the social and national movements in the state are also part of the exhibition.
Students who visited the exhibition eagerly examined the photographs and historical documents. They said that seeing the events of the freedom struggle, read about in books, through real photographs and historical material is a unique and inspiring experience. This gave them an opportunity to closely understand the struggle, sacrifice, and dedication of the freedom fighters.
The 150-year glorious story of 'Vande Mataram'
is a major highlight of the exhibition, focusing on the 150-year historical journey of the national anthem 'Vande Mataram'. From the composition of 'Vande Mataram' to its role as an inspiring voice of national awakening during the freedom movement, it is presented through historical context and photographs. This section introduces the new generation to the role of the national anthem in the freedom movement and its impact on awakening nationalism among the countrymen. Students showed particular interest in this section, describing it as an important medium for understanding the country's freedom struggle and national sentiment.
From the glorious story of independence to a new picture of development,
the exhibition prominently showcases the glorious story of the freedom struggle as well as Chhattisgarh's current development journey. Photographs depict the positive changes brought about in the lives of ordinary citizens through public welfare schemes. The exhibition also provides information on initiatives related to education, skill development, employment, and social security, including the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, the Krishak Unnati Yojana, and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Achievements related to the empowerment of women, farmers, youth, workers, and needy families are also showcased.
A glimpse of the achievements of good governance and development:
The exhibition presents the state's development journey, including Good Governance Festival, Green Chhattisgarh, education, and infrastructure expansion, through photographs and informative material. Achievements related to improved road and rail connectivity, industrial infrastructure, investment, and new employment opportunities are also glimpsed.
In this way, the exhibition presents the journey from the history of the freedom struggle to the present-day development of Chhattisgarh on a single platform. This combination of past glory and present-day development is particularly appealing to visitors.

Students described their experiences as informative and inspiring.
Students and teachers who visited the exhibition also shared their experiences. Students and teachers described the exhibition as beautiful, informative and inspiring. Students said that they have gained important information about the heroes of the freedom struggle. Such events are useful in giving better information to the new generation about the heroes who sacrificed everything for the country's independence. It was suggested to continue such events in the future also.

Raipur. On the auspicious occasion of the third Monday of the holy month of Sawan and Nag Panchami, Tourism, Culture and Religious Affairs Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal performed the ritualistic worship of Lord Shiva at the ancient Shiva temple in Lakhanpur. Worshiping Lord Shiva, he prayed for happiness, peace, prosperity, health and a happy life for all the people of the state.

Minister Agarwal said that the infinite blessings of Lord Shiva, the Supreme God, may always remain upon the people of the state. May every family be filled with happiness, peace, prosperity, and good fortune with the blessings of Lord Shiva, and may everyone's life be filled with new energy, enthusiasm, and auspiciousness.

Mahasamund. On the very first day of a special campaign against food adulteration launched in Chhattisgarh, a major crackdown took place in Mahasamund district. A joint team of the Revenue Department, Food and Drug Administration, and police raided a cheese factory on Bhalesar Road and seized 300 kilograms of cheese. Suspecting the quality of the cheese, officials took samples and sent them to a laboratory for testing.

According to reports, officials received a complaint that the factory was producing analog cheese. Based on the complaint, a joint team raided the Vaidya Food Products factory late Sunday night. During the investigation, large quantities of cheese were found being produced at the factory.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the cheese produced at the factory was being supplied to various areas in Odisha, including Raipur. Officials found approximately 300 kilograms of cheese at the scene, which was seized. The raw materials used in the cheese production are also being examined.

It is reported that this factory belongs to Shobhit, a resident of Kanpur. During the operation, 10 to 12 artisans were found working in the factory, all from Morena district in Madhya Pradesh. The investigation also revealed that this factory in Bhalesar had been operating for approximately a year.

The state Food Department has launched a special campaign against adulterated food items from August 17th to August 23rd. During this period, shops, hotels, dairies, and food production units will be inspected. Samples of suspected food items will be taken and their quality will be tested.

Officials say further action will be taken after the investigation report is received. If the cheese is confirmed to be adulterated, strict action will be taken against the operators involved under the Food Safety Act.

Raipur. A major controversy has erupted regarding the UGC-NET June 2026. Following the cancellation of the English, Commerce, and Sociology papers, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has launched a scathing attack on the central government and the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Rahul Gandhi questioned whether the question papers were leaked before the exam. He said that the NTA often makes the mistake, but the students bear the brunt.

According to the NTA, serious factual, translation, and typographical errors were found in the question papers for these three subjects. The English and Commerce exams will now be rescheduled for September 9, while the Sociology exam will be rescheduled for September 10, 2026

The NTA has clarified that students will not be charged a re-examination fee for re-exams, and the number of seats will not be reduced. Results for the remaining 84 subjects will be released as scheduled.

Rahul Gandhi demanded accountability of NTA, saying that the fault is not of the students and the responsibility of the system shoud

Gonda. A video of female students dancing in burqas at an Independence Day event went viral, sparking controversy. The incident occurred at Knowledge Beam Academy, located in the Khondare police station area of ​​Gonda.

After the video went viral, school administrator Ramakrishna Maurya issued a public apology, stating that the program was intended solely for entertainment and not intended to hurt the sentiments of any community.

The manager claimed that all the dancing students in the video were Hindus. He apologized if the program offended any community and vowed to avoid such a mistake in the future.

Currently, the debate regarding the viral video is going on on social media.