Raipur, Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary has extended his heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Dr. Ramchandra Godbole and Smt. Sunita Godbole, who have been selflessly serving the remote and Naxal-affected tribal areas of Bastar for more than four decades, on being awarded the Padma Shri 2026.

Finance Minister Mr. Chaudhary said that this honor is not just for two individuals, but for the spirit of service, dedication, and compassion that has brought a ray of hope to thousands of tribal families. He said that Dr. Ramchandra Godbole and Mrs. Sunita Godbole worked to bring healthcare to remote and challenging areas like Bastar, where even basic medical services were unavailable for years. The couple dedicated their entire lives to improving the health of tribal communities, combating malnutrition, and ensuring a better future for their children.

The Finance Minister said that the spirit of service of the Godbole couple is an inspiration for the society and their contribution will continue to inspire the coming generations to serve humanity.

Chhattisgarh begins a new era of semiconductor and electronics manufacturing

Second SEZ approved in Nava Raipur, first semiconductor manufacturing plant to be set up in the state

Raipur: Chhattisgarh has achieved another major milestone in its industrial development. A second Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has been approved in Naya Raipur. Polymetech Electronics Limited has been approved to establish an electronics and engineering-based SEZ on a 10.13-hectare site in Naya Raipur, where semiconductor and electronics products will be manufactured.

This project is significant because it will establish the first semiconductor manufacturing plant in Chhattisgarh. This will also usher the state into a new world of technology-driven and high-value industries. This will not only accelerate industrial development but also position Chhattisgarh as a new hub for technology-based investment and advanced manufacturing.

This Special Economic Zone, to be built in Naya Raipur, will play a key role in boosting the state's exports, attracting new investment, and connecting Chhattisgarh to the global electronics supply chain. It will also create new employment opportunities in skill development, innovation, and technology.

The project is expected to create over 1,300 jobs over the next five years, opening up new avenues for skilled youth in the state to work in high-tech industries and boosting technical skill development.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that this approval is a testament to the positive environment being created for investment and industry in Chhattisgarh. He said that the state government is creating a strong environment for future industries through improved infrastructure, transparent systems, and investment-friendly policies. The Chief Minister said, “Semiconductor technology is the need of the future. The establishment of the state's first semiconductor manufacturing plant in Naya Raipur is not just the beginning of an industry, but also a strong foundation for Chhattisgarh's technological future. This will provide better employment opportunities for youth, enhance technical skills, and propel the state forward with a new industrial identity.”

Chhattisgarh's industrial potential is also gaining national recognition. Chhattisgarh has been recognized as a "High Performer" among landlocked states in the LEADS 2025 rankings by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India. This reflects the state's superior logistics system, industrial connectivity, and export potential. This new SEZ in Naya Raipur is considered an important step toward establishing Chhattisgarh's new identity as a leader in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

Revenue Minister's surprise inspection creates stir in Raipur Tehsil office

SDM reprimanded for delay in diversion

Raipur, Revenue Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma today conducted a surprise inspection of Raipur Tehsil office and the new division commissioner's office. This sudden visit of the minister created a stir among the administrative staff. During the inspection, the minister expressed his deep displeasure over the snail's pace and negligence in the disposal of revenue matters. He reprimanded the officials for the delay in sensitive cases like name transfer, error correction, demarcation and partition related to the general public and gave strict instructions to resolve them quickly. Especially, on finding extremely slow progress in the cases of diversion, the minister strongly reprimanded the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDM) Raipur.

Instructions to improve cleanliness and file maintenance in offices

During the inspection, the Revenue Minister also reviewed the cleanliness of the office premises. He expressed displeasure over the clutter and disorganized file management. The Minister issued strict instructions to officials to ensure a clean environment and proper seating arrangements for the convenience of the general public, and to ensure that all government documents and files are properly organized.

Intensive inspection of various branches and courts

To closely understand the functioning of the tehsil office, the Revenue Minister himself visited the Bhuiyan branch, Kanungo branch, WBN branch and Maljamadar branch. He also conducted a thorough inspection of the Tehsildar and Naib Tehsildar courts. While reviewing court proceedings, he clearly stated that hearings in the revenue court should be continuous so that the general public does not have to suffer the hassle of adjourning dates. People come from morning and sit till evening and are given the next date without a hearing; this attitude will not be tolerated.

Aim to reduce pending cases to zero

During the inspection, officials provided statistics detailing that out of the 65,390 cases filed in the tehsil so far, 64,702 have been resolved, leaving only 688 pending cases. The minister also set a target to immediately resolve all remaining pending cases within a timeframe.

Direct communication with the public and quick resolution

The minister not only reviewed files but also interacted directly with the public present on the campus. He listened to their complaints and concerns and directed the on-site officials to address them promptly.

Divisional Commissioner instructed to prepare a roadmap for revenue works

After visiting the tehsil office, the Minister visited the new Divisional Commissioner's office. There, he directed the Divisional Commissioner to resolve pending revenue matters within a timely manner. In addition to streamlining operations and strengthening administrative oversight, the Minister directed the Divisional Commissioner to prepare a clear roadmap of the actual progress of revenue work in all districts of the division.

Collectors to submit daily reports from June 1; round-the-clock monitoring of sensitive areas and major reservoirs

Raipur,The state government reviewed preparedness measures to deal with natural disasters, especially floods, during the upcoming monsoon season. A comprehensive strategy covering relief camp management and disaster response was discussed at the state-level High-Power Flood Control Committee meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel at Mantralaya on Monday.

Strict instructions to Collectors; daily monitoring from June 1st
Chief Secretary directed all District Collectors and Chairpersons of District Disaster Management Authorities to strengthen safety and relief arrangements for Monsoon 2026. From June 1, all Collectors will have to submit daily reports on rainfall and possible damage to the state government. Districts have also been directed to immediately appoint nodal officers for flood control.

Flood control rooms set up at state and district levels
Officials of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department informed that the monsoon is likely to become active in June. A state-level flood control room has been activated for quick coordination and emergency response. The State Control Room can be contacted at 0771-2223471 and 0771-2221242, with fax number 0771-2223472. District-level control rooms have also been set up across the state. The Chief Secretary directed departments to ensure zero loss of life during floods and heavy rainfall.

Food, Health and Public Health Engineering Department
Departments were directed to ensure advance storage of ration, salt, kerosene and life-saving medicines in inaccessible and sensitive areas. Special medical teams will be formed for flood-prone regions. Instructions were also issued to maintain cleanliness around drinking water sources and ensure adequate availability of bleaching powder in rural and urban areas.

Water Resources, Home Guards and Civil Defence
Low-lying areas affected by floods every year will be identified and monitored round the clock. Flood rescue equipment and motorboats are to be repaired immediately. Home Guards and Civil Defence teams have been asked to remain on alert. In case of water release from major dams, downstream districts and neighbouring states must be alerted at least 12 hours in advance.

Public Works, Forest and Urban Administration Department
Departments were directed to identify and repair weak bridges, culverts and government buildings. Barriers and warning boards will be installed at accident-prone spots. Urban bodies have been instructed to ensure continuous cleaning of drains during the monsoon to prevent waterlogging.

Agriculture Department and Meteorological Centre
Heavy rainfall warnings issued by the Meteorological Centre will be shared promptly with district control rooms and the public. Farmers will receive weather forecasts through mobile apps. Crop damage assessment due to floods will be jointly conducted by Revenue, Agriculture and Horticulture Department officials, with quick submission of reports to the government.

Focus on dilapidated buildings and disaster management apps
The Chief Secretary directed continuous monitoring of dilapidated and dangerous buildings in urban areas and timely relocation of residents to safer places. He also stressed wider public awareness of disaster management and weather forecast mobile apps.

Agriculture Development and Farmers Welfare Secretary Shri Siddharth Komal Pardeshi, Urban Administration Secretary Ms. R. Shangeeta, Revenue and Disaster Management Secretary Mrs. Shammi Abidi, Energy Department Secretary Shri Saransh Mittar , Finance Department Special Secretary Mrs. Sheetal Shashwat Verma, and senior officials of the Home, Health, Public Works, Food, Public Relations, Railways, Doordarshan, Red Cross Society and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited were present in the meeting.

Raipur. Public Health Engineering Department is alert to provide clean and regular drinking water during summers. Amidst the scorching heat, humidity and the ever-increasing water crisis, the team of Public Health Engineering Department is on the ground with full commitment to maintain smooth drinking water supply in rural areas. The team of Public Health Engineering Department is working vigilantly to provide clean and regular drinking water to the villagers during summers. The department is working promptly to provide uninterrupted drinking water to forest areas and remote villages. The state government has directed all the technical staff and hand pump mechanics of the department to immediately resolve faulty hand pumps, pipeline related problems and obstacles in the drinking water supply.

On the instructions of Deputy Chief Minister and Public Health Engineering Minister Shri Arun Sao, department officials are regularly visiting rural areas to inspect the ground situation of drinking water schemes. Despite the scorching heat and difficult conditions, the department's team is working day and night to provide relief to villagers from water scarcity. The department is continuously monitoring schemes implemented under the Jal Jeevan Mission in remote areas to ensure uninterrupted access to clean and safe drinking water for every rural household. Departmental teams are actively working to ensure the availability of clean, safe, and regular drinking water to every household, even during the summer.
Along with the regular operation of schemes implemented under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the department is also raising awareness among villagers about water conservation. People are being urged to keep taps closed when not needed, prevent water misuse, and conserve water. The department is also spreading the message that water is not just a necessity today, but a precious resource for future generations, and its conservation is everyone's collective responsibility.
During their visits, the Public Health Engineering Department team is meeting with members of village water and sanitation committees, placing special emphasis on increasing public participation in the sustainable operation of the schemes. Villagers are being made aware of the importance of collecting water taxes, so that the schemes can be maintained and operated uninterruptedly for a long time. The department is also emphasizing the construction of soak pits near each household's tap connections, ensuring water conservation and cleanliness.

Raipur: Chief Secretary Mr. Vikassheel has given clear instructions to departmental officials to ensure all appropriate and concrete actions are taken to prevent road accidents in the state. The Chief Secretary was addressing officials at a road safety meeting held at the Secretariat today.  The Chief Secretary
emphasized
the need to regularly monitor black spots identified as prone to road accidents and to immediately undertake necessary repairs. He directed officials from the National Highways and Public Works Departments to coordinate and improve road conditions to eliminate the risk of accidents. The meeting
, which reviewed Supreme Court and Central government schemes, reviewed
the implementation of the State Road Safety Fund and the guidelines issued by the Honorable Supreme Court in the Phalodi and Ranga Reddy road accident cases. The progress of the PM Relief Scheme and PM e-Drive Scheme was also reviewed. The Chief Secretary urged officials to ensure 100% compliance with the directives of the Supreme Court's Committee on Road Safety. The implementation of the SOPs related to road accident rescue issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, was also reviewed.  The Chief Secretary
directed the Transport Department
to expedite the installation of charging stations for e-vehicles under the PM e-Drive scheme. He directed the Transport Department to immediately install e-charging stations at designated locations. Officials reported that EV charging stations have been installed at 150 locations in the state so far. These stations are also subsidized under the PM e-Drive scheme. 
Cashless treatment for the injured:
The Chief Secretary emphasized that prompt treatment is crucial for those injured in road accidents. Under the Prime Minister's Relief Scheme, cashless treatment is provided in hospitals. He directed officials from the Health Department, Home Affairs, Police, Transport, and District Administration to work in coordination with sensitivity. The meeting was informed that 282 road accident victims have been registered for treatment under the scheme so far. The Chief Secretary reviewed the implementation of this scheme in detail and urged for further effectiveness. The Secretary and Commissioner of the Transport Department, Mr. S. Prakash, Secretary of Urban Administration Department Ms. R. Sangeetha along with senior officials of Police, National Highway Authority of India, National Highways, Public Works Department and other related departments were present.

00 Case of fertilizer black marketing
Raipur. The Agriculture Department has started strict action to provide quality fertilizer to the farmers at the prescribed rate in Dhamtari district. After irregularities were found during a surprise inspection, the license of a fertilizer seller was suspended with immediate effect, while show cause notices have been issued to many private and cooperative sales centers. The department has made it clear that black marketing, overpricing and irregular sales will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The Agriculture Department team is continuously conducting inspections across the district to ensure farmers receive quality fertilizers at reasonable prices. Departmental officials, including the Deputy Director of Agriculture, fertilizer, seed, and pesticide inspectors, conducted surprise inspections of several cooperative and private fertilizer sales centers in the Dhamtari, Kurud, Magarlod, and Nagari development blocks.

During the inspection, serious irregularities were discovered at Messrs. Laxmi Traders Bhakhara. The shop's license was suspended after it was confirmed that fertilizer was sold in excess of the prescribed quantity and that fertilizer was sold to a landless individual. Show-cause notices were issued to Messrs. Cop Care & Trading Jhiriya, Paras Krishi Kendra Sonamagar, Karma Traders Semra, Krishna Fertilizer Kurud, and Raj Krishi Kendra Nagari, seeking their response.

The Agriculture Department says that if a satisfactory answer is not received, strict action will be taken against the concerned centers as per the rules. In view of the Kharif season, the availability of fertilizers and the sales system in the district are being continuously monitored. The department has appealed to the farmers to use other recommended fertilizers as an alternative to DAP and while purchasing fertilizers, they must buy only at the prescribed price and take the bill. Complaints regarding the quality of fertilizers, black marketing or charging of higher prices have been asked to be lodged immediately in the nearest Agriculture Department office.

Raipur. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai paid a courtesy call on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta at her residence in New Delhi today. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed issues such as public welfare, good governance, urban development, expansion of public facilities, and better coordination between states.

 Chief Minister Shri Sai shared information about ongoing development works and public welfare schemes in Chhattisgarh. Both Chief Ministers emphasized the importance of the active role of states and mutual cooperation in the country's development. Various contemporary issues were also discussed on this occasion.

00 Chhatrapati Shivaji Coronation Day celebrations will be grand with various presentations besides the unique staging of the Hindi play Shiv Shaurya.
Raipur. Governor Ramen Deka will unveil the beautiful statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj sitting on the throne in a grand function on June 6 at Maharashtra Mandal. On this occasion, about 75 minutes long Hindi play Shiv Shaurya will be staged at Kumudini Varwandkar Theatre of Sant Dnyaneshwar Auditorium. Apart from this, there will be various presentations related to Shivaji Maharaj. Along with this, the guidance of the first citizen of Chhattisgarh, Governor Deka will also be available.Mandal President Ajay Madhukar Kale said that on Friday afternoon, he met Governor Ramen Deka at Lok Bhavan and invited him as the chief guest at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Coronation Day celebrations to be held on June 6 at 6:30 pm. The Governor gladly accepted the invitation of the Maharashtra Mandal delegation and agreed to attend the event on June 6. North MLA Purandar Mishra was also present on this occasion. This annual event has become special this time due to the unveiling of the statue of Shivaji Maharaj sitting on the throne. Let us tell you that the statue of Shivaji Maharaj will be installed in the lawn area of ​​the Mandal Bhavan located in Chaubey Colony.

According to Vice President Geeta Dalal, the Hindi play Shiv Shaurya directed by Abhishek Bakshi is also proposed to be staged on this occasion. Apart from staging this play with more than 25 artists, Shravani Mukadam will present a dance drama based on the personality and life of Shivaji Maharaj. Here, senior theatre artist Aparna Kale will be seen performing on the introspection of Shivaji Maharaj's mother Jijau Bai. In the presidential address of the function, Mandal President Ajay Kale will give information about the ongoing projects of Maharashtra Mandal and will also discuss future plans.

To ensure the grandeur of the event, preparations have already begun, with the formation of various committees underway. Among those who met the Governor at Lok Bhavan were Raipur North Assembly constituency MLA Purandar Mishra, President Kale and Vice President Geeta Dalal, along with Secretary Chetan Govind Dandavate, Chief Coordinator Shyam Sundar Khangan, Women's Chief Vishakha Toptanwale, and Whip Ravindra Thengadi.

Raipur. Chhattisgarh Government, Water Resources Department has approved Rs 3 crore 80 lakh 20 thousand for the renovation work of the canals of Barkela Reservoir Scheme of Manendragarh development block of Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district. After completion of the proposed works, irrigation facility will be available in the entire designed area including fulfilling the shortfall of 254 hectares against the designed irrigation capacity of 285 hectares. Administrative approval has been given to Chief Engineer Hasdeo Ganga Floodplain Water Resources Department Ambikapur to complete the works of the scheme.

A grand confluence of tribal identity, cultural pride and social consciousness was witnessed on Sunday at the historic Red Fort grounds in the country's capital, Delhi, when thousands of tribal representatives, youth, social workers and people from traditional communities from across the country gathered on one platform at the National Tribal Cultural Conference organized on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda. Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah was present as the chief guest at this grand event organized by Janjati Suraksha Manch and Janjati Jagriti Samiti. The presence of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai gave special significance to the event. Along with Chief Minister Shri Sai, Chhattisgarh Government Ministers Shri Kedar Kashyap and Shri Ramvichar Netam were also present. 

At the venue, Delhi Chief Minister Mrs. Rekha Gupta paid a courtesy call on Chief Minister Mr. Vishnudev Sai. Embellished with the historical backdrop of the Red Fort, traditional costumes, folk instruments, and the diverse colors of tribal culture, the event was not merely a cultural event but also a national message for the preservation of India's core cultural consciousness and tribal identity.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai held cordial meetings with representatives and members of the tribal community from across the country. In his address, he stated that tribal communities are not only protectors of nature, but also the most ancient and vibrant manifestation of India's cultural soul. He stated that for centuries, tribal communities have protected water, forests, and land, maintaining a balance between nature and human life. Today, when the entire world is grappling with the challenges of environmental crisis and unbalanced development, tribal life philosophy can show humanity the path to sustainable and nature-friendly development. The Chief Minister stated that tribal communities have lived a life of coexistence and balance with nature for centuries, and that their culture and traditions are India's invaluable heritage.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Chhattisgarh's identity is deeply intertwined with its rich tribal culture. Approximately 44 percent of Chhattisgarh's land area is covered in forests, which not only symbolize natural wealth but also serve as a vibrant foundation of tribal life, culture, and tradition. He stated that the tribal community's contribution, from the freedom movement to nation-building, has been incomparable. Great heroes like Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Chhattisgarh's immortal martyr Veer Narayan Singh have created a unique history of struggle, courage, and sacrifice to protect their culture, self-respect, and rights, which is a source of inspiration for the new generation.

The state has a stock of 3.94 crore litres of petrol and 8.09 crore litres of diesel.

Regular supply of petrol and diesel continues

Raipur, Chhattisgarh has adequate stocks of petrol and diesel, and there's no need for consumers to panic or stockpile additional fuel. Fuel supplies in the state are completely normal, and regular supplies are being ensured, prioritizing farmers and essential services.

It is worth mentioning here that the state currently has a stock of 39.4 million 7 thousand 700 liters of petrol and 88.8 million 83 thousand liters of diesel. A total of 2,516 petrol pumps are operating in the state to supply petrol and diesel. According to the Food Department, in view of the increased demand for diesel due to the harvesting of the Rabi crop and preparations for the Kharif season, oil companies' depots in Lakhauli and Mandir Hasaud (Raipur) and Gopalpur (Korba) are continuously supplying the districts as per requirement.

It is noteworthy that on May 22, 2026, the state received 2.183 million liters of petrol and 12.975 million liters of diesel. Regular daily supplies of petrol and diesel continue.

The Food Secretary also held a meeting with officials from all oil companies on May 20, 2026, to review fuel availability and distribution arrangements in the state. Instructions were given at the meeting that petrol pumps facing stock shortages should be immediately resupplied from depots to ensure no inconvenience to consumers in any area.

The state government has banned the sale of petrol and diesel in drums and jerrycans at all petrol and diesel pumps in the state, effective May 22, 2026. However, farmers and essential services identified by the collector have been exempted from this ban. The state government has appealed to the public not to panic buy or hoard fuel due to any rumors or misinformation. All necessary arrangements have been made at the state level to ensure the easy availability of petrol and diesel to all consumers as needed.

Expressed displeasure over delay in construction works, directed to issue notice to concerned agencies

Raipur. Secretary of the Public Works Department, Mr. Mukesh Kumar Bansal, today conducted a site inspection of the under-construction Podi-Bilaspur National Highway-130A in Kabirdham district and conducted a detailed review of the progress, quality and technical aspects of the construction work. During the inspection, he also inspected the bypass road along with the main road and inquired about the current status of the work from the officials and the construction agency.

During the inspection, Secretary Mr. Bansal issued clear instructions that any negligence or lack of quality in construction work would not be tolerated. He emphasized that road construction work must be completed within the prescribed standards and timeframe. He urged immediate corrective action to be taken at areas requiring improvement.

Mr. Bansal stated that all quality control parameters must be strictly followed during construction, and technical inspections must be ensured at every stage to prevent future problems. He directed officials to expedite construction and ensure regular monitoring. He also instructed officials to regularly visit the field for inspections and ensure quality testing.

Before the field inspection, the Secretary of the Public Works Department reviewed the work with officials from the Public Works Department, National Highways, and Bridge Division at the Kawardha Circuit House. During this, he reviewed the progress of the ongoing construction of buildings, roads, and bridges in Kawardha district and directed that all work be completed within the deadline.

He directed that notices be issued to the relevant agencies and responsible parties in cases where projects have not progressed for a long time or are experiencing unnecessary delays in starting work. He stated that unnecessary delays and negligence in development work will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Secretary Mr. Bansal asked the officials concerned with road construction or other proposed development works to first inspect the site and examine the technical and all other necessary aspects before taking further action. If any construction work faces any technical hurdle, site-related problem or other difficulty, information about it should be immediately provided to the senior level. This can help in resolving the problem and prevent the progress of the work from being affected. Kawardha Collector Mr. Gopal Verma, Chief Engineer of Public Works Department Mr. V.K. Bhatpahari, Chief Engineer of Dureg Division Mr. Nagesh Jayant, Chief Engineer of National Highway Division Mr. Gyaneshwar Kashyap and Executive Engineer of Kawardha Division Mr. Ranjit Ghadge were also present

Raipur. Secretary of Public Works Department, Mr. Mukesh Kumar Bansal visited Mungeli district today and inspected and reviewed the ongoing works. He told the departmental officers that laxity in the construction works will not be tolerated at any level. He instructed all the officers to go to the field with full responsibility and speed up the construction works. Mr. Bansal inspected the under-construction Lormi bypass road and instructed the departmental officers and contractors to complete it within the time limit.

The department secretary stated in a meeting held at the Mungeli Circuit House that ensuring both quality and speed in construction work is the department's top priority. No laxity should be tolerated in this regard. He directed coordination with municipal bodies and other departments to expedite road construction. He also called for patchwork on damaged roads.

Describing smooth traffic as a priority for the government, Mr. Bansal directed that proposals be prepared to connect villages with all-weather roads and immediately submitted to the government. He directed regular field visits to closely inspect ongoing work, ensuring quality and timely completion.

Mungeli Collector Mr. Kundan Kumar, DFO Mr. Abhinav Kumar, District Panchayat CEO Mr. Prabhakar Pandey, Public Works Department Chief Engineer Mr. V.K. Bhatpahari, Bilaspur Zone Chief Engineer Mr. R.K. Ratre, National Highway Zone Chief Engineer Mr. Gyaneshwar Kashyap, Superintending Engineer Mr. K.P. Sant, Executive Engineers Mr. Sharad Satpathy, R.K. Khamra and Mr. Nitish Tiwari were also present in the meeting.