Deputy Chief Minister participated in the state level workshop on operation and maintenance of water supply schemes.

PHE in collaboration with UNICEF and ACE organized a workshop for women Sarpanches of Har Ghar Jal certified villages

Raipur, July 2026. Deputy Chief Minister and Public Health Engineering Minister Shri Arun Saw today attended a state-level workshop on operation and maintenance of rural pipeline water supply schemes for women Sarpanches of Har Ghar Jal certified villages under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Addressing the women Sarpanches at the workshop held at the Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research Institute (RGNGWTRI) in Nava Raipur, he said that rainwater harvesting and water conservation are essential for the long-term smooth operation of water supply schemes. This will recharge groundwater and maintain water availability in water sources for a long time.

In the workshop, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Saw inquired from the Sarpanchs about the changes that have taken place in the lives of the villagers, especially women, after the availability of tap water in every house in the villages. He asked about the arrangements made by the Panchayats for the operation and maintenance of the tap water schemes. He also inquired about the water sources in the villages, regular testing of water quality and maintenance charges. This one-day state-level workshop was organized by the Public Health Engineering Department in collaboration with UNICEF and ACE (Action for Community Development). About 100 women Sarpanchs participated in it.

In the workshop, extensive discussions were held on the operation, maintenance and repair of tap water schemes in Har Ghar Jal certified villages and best practices were discussed in depth. During this, women Sarpanches shared their experiences of water supply arrangements and operation and maintenance of tap water schemes in their respective Panchayats under Jal Jeevan Mission. In the workshop, experts told the women Sarpanches the tricks for successful, uninterrupted and long-term operation of tap water schemes.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao stated at the workshop that the water sources used for water supply must be cared for and used carefully. The long-term success of the scheme depends on their sustainability. He stated that after the completion of the tap water schemes and their transfer to the Panchayats, the Gram Panchayats will be responsible for their operation and maintenance. Jal Jeevan Mission is a scheme for our homes and our villages. Gram Panchayats, in collaboration with villagers, must make the water supply system self-sufficient. Shri Sao emphasized the importance of maintaining water levels and recharging groundwater sources, building stop dams, and storing rainwater. He said that all villages should make arrangements to properly fill ponds by removing encroachments and obstructions to the natural flow of rainwater.

Mr. Mohammad Qaiser Abdulhaq, Secretary of the Public Health Engineering Department, Ms. Ruby Mukherjee, Director of the Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research Institute, and Ms. Shweta Patnaik, Water and Sanitation Specialist, UNICEF, also addressed the workshop. Mr. K.K. Markam, Chief Engineer, and Mr. Sameer Gaur, Superintending Engineer, were also present.

School Education Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav performed Bhoomi Pujan, patients will get facilities like private hospitals.

Raipur, July 2026/ School Education Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav today performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the first floor (Phase 2) of the surgical wing at the District Hospital, Durg. This state-of-the-art surgical wing, to be built at a cost of approximately ₹48.5 million (43.3 million rupees), will provide modern healthcare facilities for patients and their families.

7 modern paying rooms to be constructed in the new surgical wing

Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony, Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav said that seven modern paying rooms will be built in the new surgical wing, providing patients and their families with facilities similar to those in a private hospital. The building will feature two spacious waiting halls, centralized air conditioning, televisions, and other modern amenities, providing a better environment for both patients and their families during treatment. He added that for a long time, patients faced inconvenience due to the lack of a paying ward at the district hospital. In particular, pregnant women and their families had to choose private hospitals. Now, after delivery, if a family wishes to keep the mother and child in a safe and comfortable environment under the supervision of doctors, they will have access to separate paying rooms.

Paying ward with kitchen and other special facilities available

Minister Shri Yadav stated that approximately 15 years ago, a paying ward operated at the district hospital, where many families in the city admitted their patients and pregnant women. At that time, several special facilities, including a separate kitchen, were available, but this facility was later discontinued. He added that the number of patients and women coming to the hospital for delivery is constantly increasing. In view of this, he had requested the Chief Minister to restart the paying ward facility, which has now been approved.

The new paying ward will provide modern hotel-like facilities to the patients.

School Education Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav said that the new paying ward will provide patients with modern hotel-like facilities, allowing them to remain safe within the hospital premises under the constant supervision of doctors. He also announced that in the future, a separate MRI center and CT scan center will be established at the district hospital, so that residents of the district can access advanced healthcare services locally.

On this occasion, Municipal Corporation Chairman Shri Shyam Sharma, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Oil Mill Board Shri Jitendra Sahu, Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Manoj Dani, Civil Surgeon Dr. Ashish Minj, Executive Engineer of Public Works Department Shri A.K. Bhattacharya along with officers of Health and Public Works Department and senior doctors were present.

Jashpur :- Under the Leadership of Former State General Secretary Krishna Kumar Rai, Devotees from Jashpur Perform Holy Jalabhishek at Baba Baidyanath Dham
Jashpur, Chhattisgarh: Continuing a long-standing tradition of faith and devotion, a group of Lord Shiva devotees from Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh undertook the sacred Kanwar pilgrimage to the renowned Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar, Jharkhand, during the holy month of Shravan.
The devotees ceremonially collected the sacred waters of the holy Ganga from Sultanganj, Bihar, and carried it on foot to Deoghar, where they offered the holy water at the Baidyanath Jyotirlinga. They also performed special prayers and rituals, seeking peace, prosperity, good health, and the well-being of the nation and society.
The pilgrimage was led by former State General Secretary and former Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Handicrafts Development Board, Krishna Kumar Rai. Under his leadership, the devotees completed the spiritual journey with devotion and discipline, upholding a tradition that has been continued from Jashpur for several years.
Speaking on the occasion, the devotees described the pilgrimage as not only a religious observance but also a symbol of India's rich spiritual heritage, social harmony, and cultural values. They prayed to Lord Shiva for the progress of the nation, happiness of the people, and universal peace.
Among those who participated in the pilgrimage were Satyendra Singh, Vinod Mishra, Sunil Agrawal, Sunil Soni, Sanjay Soni, Alok Rai, Satish Jaiswal, Karan Rai, Kanak Chindalia, Rajkumar Gupta, Amarkant Verma, Pramod Mishra, and Ashu Rai, along with several other devotees.
The annual pilgrimage, led by Krishna Kumar Rai, has become a symbol of unwavering faith and dedication, inspiring devotees from the region to preserve and promote the spiritual traditions of Sanatan Dharma.

o Winners of Bastar Pandum-2026 were specially felicitated
o Bastar is moving ahead in a new direction of development, peace and prosperity: Draupadi Murmu
o Expressed desire to participate in Bastar Dussehra and Bastar Pandum, said, Bastar Dussehra touches the heart
o Such splendor of Bastar's tribal culture was seen for the first time in Rashtrapati Bhavan: Home Minister Amit Shah
o 209-member delegation led by Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai arrived

New Delhi/Raipur. A new history was created today in the country's highest constitutional building, Rashtrapati Bhavan. For the first time, the unmatched splendor of Bastar's rich tribal culture, folk traditions and costumes was visible. Welcoming the 209-member delegation from Bastar led by Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, President Draupadi Murmu not only cordially served food to everyone herself, but also expressed her keen desire to participate in Bastar Dussehra and Bastar Pandum.

During this, the Chief Minister presented a 300-year-old 'Jhitku-Mitki' artwork from Bastar, which the President was overwhelmed by. The delegation included Home Minister Vijay Sharma, Culture and Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal, along with the winning participants of Bastar Pandum-2026, representatives of the traditional tribal leadership system, Padma Shri awardees, public representatives and senior officials.

President Draupadi Murmu hosted a special banquet in honor of the winning participants of Bastar Pandum-2026, Pargana Manjhi, Manjhi, Chalaki, and Padma Shri awardees. The President personally served food to all the guests, demonstrating her warmth. The President held cordial and informal discussions with the delegation members, inquiring about Bastar's tribal culture, folk arts, traditional social systems, and experiences related to organizing the Bastar Pandum. She encouraged the artists and traditional tribal representatives and praised their cultural heritage.

At the request of Chief Minister Sai, President Draupadi Murmu expressed her desire to attend Bastar Dussehra and Bastar Pandum and said that she would definitely attend these events in the future. The President said that Bastar Dussehra especially touches her heart. Referring to the wooden idol of Lord Jagannath and the unique traditions of Bastar Dussehra, she said that she has a close connection with Bastar Dussehra. She also said that Manjhis are part of her family and that her father was also a Manjhi.

In her address, President Draupadi Murmu said that Bastar Pandum is a vibrant celebration of Chhattisgarh's rich tribal traditions, folk arts, and cultural heritage, which has played an important role in establishing Bastar's true identity at the national and international level. She said that such events have not only reconnected the youth with their traditions and cultural heritage but have also given a new impetus to tourism and local employment. The President praised the talent of Bastar's tribal artists, craftsmen, and youth and expressed confidence that they will continue to make significant contributions to nation-building while preserving their cultural identity.

The President said that, thanks to the efforts of the government and local public participation, Bastar is today moving forward in a new direction of peace, development, and prosperity. He praised the expansion of infrastructure such as education, roads, electricity, and drinking water in Bastar, and the new environment of development, calling it a matter of joy and pride for the entire country. He also praised the social and cultural role of the Manjhi and Chalaki, saying that they are making a significant contribution to the preservation of Bastar's traditions and cultural values ​​by acting as an effective bridge between society and administration. On this occasion, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said that while he has visited Rashtrapati Bhavan many times, he was particularly pleased to see such a large delegation dressed in traditional tribal attire from Bastar at Rashtrapati Bhavan for the first time.

CM Sai stated that this warm meeting of the Bastar delegation with the President is a moment of great pride and honor for Chhattisgarh, especially the Bastar region. This was a historic opportunity to present Bastar's rich tribal culture, traditions, and folk life to the President. Today, Bastar is moving forward with a new identity of peace, development, and cultural renaissance. Events like Bastar Pandum have given our tribal culture new prestige at the national level. He added that the President has a special, intimate connection with tribal society and culture. His experience, affection, and guidance will give new direction to efforts to preserve and promote Bastar's cultural heritage.

Chief Minister Sai has also requested the President to visit Bastar. He said, we are confident that his arrival will give new inspiration and wide recognition at the national level to the rich tribal culture, traditions and development journey of Bastar. During this, the delegation visited the Rashtrapati Bhavan and also received important information related to the democratic and constitutional heritage of the country. On this occasion, Chief Minister's Principal Secretary Subodh Kumar Singh, Secretary Rahul Bhagat, Special Secretary and Public Relations Commissioner Rajat Bansal, Secretary of Culture Department Dr. S Bharatidasan, Commissioner of Bastar Division Doman Singh, Director of Culture and Official Language Sanjay Kannauje and other senior officers were present.

The artwork of 'Jhitku-Mitki' reached the President's court
CM Sai presented the 'Jhitku-Mitki' memento, a symbol of Bastar's rich tribal culture, love, dedication and folk faith, to President Draupadi Murmu. Jhitku-Mitki is a symbol of Bastar's nearly 300-year-old immortal love story. According to folklore, during a severe famine, Jhitku and Mitki set a unique example of their love and dedication, due to which they received divine respect. Today in Bastar, Jhitku is worshipped as 'Khoriya Raja' and Mitki as 'Gappa Dei'. This statue is considered a symbol of Bastar's rich tribal culture, folk faith, love, sacrifice and social harmony.

Raipur. Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal stated that the state government is continuously working to ensure access to quality health services in remote and vulnerable areas. He added that the Chief Minister's Swasth Bastar Campaign, particularly in the Bastar region, has yielded positive results, providing access to health services to millions of people and enabling timely identification and treatment of serious illnesses.

In a press conference held in Raipur, Health Minister Jaiswal stated that under the Chief Minister's Healthy Bastar Campaign, health checkups were conducted on over 34.29 lakh citizens, which is approximately 99 percent of the targeted population. During the campaign, malaria, tuberculosis, sickle cell, leprosy, oral cancer, and other serious diseases were identified and timely treatment was initiated. Over 60,000 serious patients were referred to higher health institutions, and special monitoring and treatment was ensured for 10,938 high-risk pregnant women.

He said that after some cases of malaria were reported in recent days, the Health Department is working with utmost vigilance. State health workers, Mitanins, ANMs, and field staff are reaching out to villages to conduct testing, treatment, surveys, and public awareness activities. The department is making continuous efforts to control and eradicate malaria. The Health Minister stated that our goal is to ensure that no deaths occur due to malaria. To this end, special emphasis is being placed on timely testing, prompt treatment, continuous monitoring, and community awareness.

He stated that as a result of strategic action planning, continuous monitoring, and public participation, the malaria positivity rate in Bastar division has decreased from 4.60 percent to 0.48 percent. The state's Annual Parasite Index (API) has also decreased from 5.21 to 0.90. This achievement reflects the Health Department's continued efforts towards malaria control.

Providing information about maternal and child health services, the Health Minister stated that over 11.89 lakh institutional deliveries have taken place in the state in the last two and a half years. Through the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan, regular specialist checkups for pregnant women, identification of high-risk pregnancies, and necessary treatment are being ensured.

To further strengthen emergency health services, 375 new 108 Sanjeevani Express ambulances have been operationalized in the state. Between January 2024 and June 2026, more than 650,000 citizens were provided timely emergency health services, ensuring prompt medical assistance in accidents, childbirth, and other emergencies.

The Health Minister stated that to ensure access to quality testing facilities, modern pathology testing services are being provided in 1,051 health institutions across the state in collaboration with the IHSSC Spamibantam Spupjamak. Through a hub-and-spoke model, IT-based reporting systems, and quality monitoring systems, citizens in remote areas are also receiving reliable and timely testing services.

He stated that along with the expansion of health services, special attention is also being paid to developing trained human resources. In this regard, paramedical courses will be introduced in all 10 medical colleges in the state. This will provide the necessary technical and paramedical human resources to health institutions and provide new opportunities for employment-oriented education and training in the health sector to the youth of the state.

During the press conference, the Health Minister also took a strict stance on food safety, directing an effective ban on the use and sale of analog cheese in the state. He stated that providing safe and quality food to the general public is the government's priority, and that violations of food safety standards will be prosecuted as per the law.

o Seva Setu became a support: With the activation of the Aadhaar card, Ram Sai started receiving benefits of schemes again.
o Expressed gratitude to CM Sai for the prompt resolution of the technical issue.

Jashpur. The ambitious Seva Setu initiative of the Chhattisgarh government is becoming an effective medium for quick resolution of the problems of needy citizens. The timely resolution of the problem of Ram Sai, a resident of Giraldih village of Jashpur district, is an inspiring example of this. Ram Sai's Aadhaar card had been inactive for the last five-six months due to technical reasons. Due to the inactivity of the Aadhaar card, he was unable to avail the benefits of various public welfare schemes of the government. His disability pension and old age pension were also stopped, due to which he was facing financial difficulties.

To resolve the issue, Ram Sai filed a complaint through Seva Setu. Upon receiving the complaint, the Seva Setu team acted swiftly, coordinated with the relevant department, completed the necessary procedures, and reactivated his Aadhaar card. After his Aadhaar card was reactivated, Ram Sai is now able to receive benefits from government schemes including disability pension, old age pension, and other eligibility-based programs. He expressed his happiness at the resolution of his long-standing problem and thanked the entire Seva Setu team.

Ram Sai said that his problem was resolved quickly through Seva Setu, which brought him great relief. Expressing his gratitude to the Chief Minister of the state, Shri Vishnudev Sai, he said that due to the public welfare initiative of the state government, the problems of common citizens are being resolved effectively and timely. The Seva Setu initiative of the state government is being implemented with the aim of providing government services to the citizens in a simple, accessible and transparent manner. This initiative is playing an important role in providing the benefits of government schemes to the needy people across the state in a timely manner and in solving their problems.

o Participated in the Bhajan Sandhya in Kharsia, said – Kabir Sahib's personality will give direction to the society for ages.

Kabirdham. Finance Minister and Raigarh MLA OP Choudhary attended the Bhajan Sandhya and Guru Vandana program organized at Acharya Gadi Sadguru Kabir Dham in Kharsia on the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima. Paying homage to Sadguru Kabir Sahib, he received the blessings of religious leaders and saints of the Kabir sect and extended Guru Purnima greetings to devotees who had come from far and wide.

On this occasion, Chaudhary said that Sadguru Kabir Sahib's personality is unique and visionary in Indian history. His words transcend the boundaries of time and still show society the path of truth, equality, and morality. He said that Kabir Sahib's couplets and teachings are as relevant today as they were in his time. His teachings are a source of inspiration for families, society, and the nation.

Recalling his student days, the Finance Minister explained that, despite graduating with a science degree, he chose Hindi literature as an optional subject while preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). During this time, he had the opportunity to deeply study the literature and philosophy of Kabir Sahib. He said that Kabir Sahib's teachings have deeply influenced his life and thinking.

Chaudhary said that he does not ask God for success, but rather for blessings that no matter how high a position he attains in life, he will never become arrogant and that he will never feel discouraged even in difficult circumstances. He said that serving society and the nation is his life's purpose, and he will always work with that spirit. He emotionally remarked that during a challenging period in his life, this sacred institution of the Kabir sect had respectfully invited him, a privilege he will never forget.

He said that true relationships are those that stand by a person even in difficult times. This is the essence of Kabir Sahib's teachings. He said that the Kabir sect is playing a vital role in the moral upliftment of society and the nation, and the government always respects this contribution. On this occasion, religious leaders, saints and sages of the Kabir sect, community officials, public representatives, and a large number of devotees were present.

Raipur. The effects of the continuous heavy rains in the capital city of Raipur are now clearly visible on the city's main Kharun River. The Kharun River is in full flow during the rainy season. Due to the continuous rains, the water level in the river is rising rapidly. The river has overflowed due to the increased flow of water in the small and big drains that join the Kharun River. The view of the Kharun River near Mahadev Ghat is very attractive these days, but the rising water level has now become a cause for concern.

Due to heavy rains, the water level of the Kharun River has reached close to the danger mark. The inflow of water into the river is continuing. If the rain continues at this rate, the situation could become even more serious in the future. According to locals, the river's water level is continuously rising, and if the rain does not stop, there is a possibility that water may flow over the Mahadev Ghat Bridge. The rising water level of the Kharun River is being felt most severely in the Mahadev Ghat area. The cremation ground here is flooded. The waterlogging has worsened to such an extent that knee-deep water has accumulated inside the cremation ground premises. Due to this, people coming for cremation are facing a lot of problems.

Relatives are facing difficulties in transporting the bodies to the cremation ground. It has become difficult for people to pass through the waterlogged roads. There are also difficulties in collecting the remains of the deceased after the funeral. Due to continuous rain and waterlogging, arrangements at the cremation ground have been affected. Locals say that the water level of the Kharun River rises every year during the rainy season, but this time the water level has risen rapidly due to continuous rain. People living on the river banks have also become more vigilant. The administration is also monitoring the areas around the river to deal with any emergency.

The Kharun River is an important water source for the city of Raipur. During the rainy season, large numbers of people visit Mahadev Ghat to witness its natural beauty. The river's rising water and strong currents attract visitors, but safety precautions are also essential. The administration urges people to avoid the river's banks and to be cautious in areas with strong currents. During the rainy season, the river's water level can rise suddenly, posing a risk of accidents.

According to the Meteorological Department, rain is expected to continue in the coming days. Consequently, the water level of the Kharun River may rise further. The administration is constantly monitoring the situation. People are being urged to avoid rumors and follow the administration's instructions in case of any emergency. Currently, the Kharun River is in spate, and the Mahadev Ghat area is waterlogged. If the rain continues, the river's water level is likely to rise further in the coming days, which could increase the danger to surrounding areas.

Raipur . By using modern agricultural techniques and innovation-based fertilizers, farmers in the state are achieving better production at lower costs. Nano Urea and Nano DAP, developed by the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), are emerging as effective, affordable, and convenient options for farmers. These fertilizers are not only reducing farming costs but also yielding positive results in increased production and nutrient use efficiency.

Sharing her experience using nano urea and nano DAP, Mrs. Bhagwati Rajwade, a progressive farmer from Sonpur Khurd village in the Ambikapur development block of Surguja district, explained that her family owns approximately 1.23 hectares of agricultural land, where nano fertilizers were used last year on paddy and other crops. This improved crop growth and yields.

Rajwade explained that the biggest advantage of nano fertilizers is their easy transportation and use. Compared to heavy bags of conventional fertilizers, small bottles of nano urea and nano DAP are easy to transport to the fields, reducing time, labor, and transportation costs. He explained that by diluting the solution with a prescribed amount of water, they can be easily sprayed, ensuring even distribution of nutrients to the crops. He added that the use of nano fertilizers has yielded positive results in crop growth, quality, and production. Being more effective in small quantities, they are also proving to be an economically beneficial option for farmers. He added that the use of nano urea and nano DAP eliminates storage problems and allows for easy use as needed.

According to agricultural experts, nano fertilizers ensure effective delivery of nutrients to plants, thereby increasing fertilizer use efficiency and reducing farming costs. Balanced use also promotes soil health and environmental protection. The Department of Agriculture is continuously providing training and technical guidance to farmers regarding the scientific use of nano fertilizers.

Bhagwati Rajwade appealed to farmers to maximize the use of nano urea and nano DAP along with modern agricultural techniques. She said this can achieve better production at lower costs, while also making farming more profitable and sustainable. The state government's efforts to connect farmers with modern agricultural techniques are giving a new direction to agricultural development in the state.

Raipur. Towards a permanent and amicable solution to the Mahanadi water sharing issue, an important meeting was held between Chhattisgarh and Odisha under the chairmanship of Union Water Power Minister CR Patil at Shramik Shakti Bhawan in New Delhi. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu and senior administrative and technical officials from both states attended the meeting.

At the meeting, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai stated that the Mahanadi River is a shared lifeline for both states, and its water is linked to farmers, drinking water, industry, the environment, and the future of future generations. He stated that the Chhattisgarh government views this issue not as a dispute, but as a new beginning for a solution through cooperation and dialogue. Describing the interests of both states as complementary, he emphasized the need for a solution that does not compromise the interests of either party.

The Chief Minister suggested developing a shared water management system for low rainfall years and developing a permanent institutional mechanism for regularly reviewing water availability, use, and future needs. He called for resolving most issues at the administrative and technical levels through mutual coordination, and bringing only policy matters to the ministerial level.

CM Sai urged the Union Water Power Minister and the Central Water Commission to play an active role in ensuring impartial technical support, a time-bound action plan, and the development of a long-term consensus-based agreement between the two states. He commended the spirit of cooperative federalism under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah and expressed confidence that, under the guidance of the central government, the two states would jointly find a lasting solution to the Mahanadi water dispute, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for farmers, citizens, industries, and the environment.

Veteran Cartoonists to Mentor Young Talent in Jagdalpur, Celebrating Bastar’s Culture, Tourism and Development Through Art

Raipur, July 30, 2026/ In a unique initiative to creatively showcase the rich cultural heritage and positive transformation of Bastar, Cartoon Watch, the country’s only monthly cartoon magazine, will organise a special cartoon workshop for school students in Jagdalpur on the theme ‘Muskurata Bastar’ (Smiling Bastar) with the support of the Chhattisgarh Department of Public Relations.

The workshop will train students in the art of cartoons and caricatures while encouraging them to creatively depict Bastar’s vibrant culture, tourism and way of life through artistic expression.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Bastar is emerging as a symbol of development, tourism and cultural resurgence. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich tribal traditions and iconic tourist destinations, the region is steadily gaining national and international recognition. Attractions such as the Chitrakote and Tirathgarh waterfalls, Kanger Valley National Park, the world-famous Bastar Dussehra, and several other traditional festivals stand as enduring symbols of Bastar’s rich heritage.

Cartoon Watch Editor Shri Tryambak Sharma said the theme ‘Muskurata Bastar’ has been conceptualised to present these positive facets of Bastar through the creative medium of cartoon art, reflecting the vision of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai for a progressive and culturally vibrant Bastar.

The workshop will feature live demonstrations by noted Delhi-based cartoonist Shri Madhav Joshi and acclaimed Pune caricature artist Shri Shubham Jinde, who will provide hands-on training in creating cartoons and caricatures. Participants will also be introduced to the social relevance, creative possibilities and career opportunities associated with cartoon art.

The initiative is expected to provide a valuable platform for local talent while taking Bastar’s positive identity to audiences across the country through the universal language of art. The ‘Muskurata Bastar’ campaign is envisioned as a creative effort to inspire the younger generation to reconnect with the region’s cultural traditions, folk heritage and priceless natural legacy.

Raipur, July 2026. On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima, during his visit to Raigarh, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai visited the Aghor Guru Peeth in village Banora and visited the statue of Aghoreshwar Avdhoot Lord Ram Ji. Wishing happiness, prosperity, and well-being for the people of the state, he performed puja and received blessings and guidance from revered Baba Priyadarshi Ram Ji. Finance Minister Shri O.P. Chaudhary was also present on the occasion.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Guru is the foundation of knowledge, values, and spiritual consciousness in Indian culture. Guru Purnima is an occasion to express reverence, respect, and gratitude to the Guru. He wished all the citizens of the state a happy, prosperous, and auspicious life and extended his best wishes to everyone on Guru Purnima.

Record fertilizer-seed and loan distribution gave new momentum

A total of 96 committees are active in the district: Direct access to 653 villages of 370 Gram Panchayats

Record distribution of fertilizers and seeds: 29,060 MT of fertilizers and 12,432 quintals of certified seeds distributed

Raipur, July 2026: The district administration has taken a major initiative to ensure timely availability of agricultural inputs and transparent benefits of government schemes for farmers in Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district during the 2026-27 Kharif season. To facilitate farmers' convenience and access, 22 new Primary Agricultural Credit Cooperative Societies have been launched in the district. With this, a total of 96 active societies in the district are now providing facilities like fertilizers, seeds, loans, and crop insurance to farmers in 653 villages across 370 Gram Panchayats under one roof. A new record has been set in the distribution
of fertilizers .

To meet the district's agricultural needs, 29,060 metric tons of fertilizer have been distributed this year, an increase of approximately 1,500 metric tons compared to last year. To meet demand, 5,000 metric tons more fertilizer has been stored than last year. Similarly, to promote quality production, 12,432 quintals of certified seeds have been distributed through committees, an increase of approximately 1,400 quintals compared to last year.

Big leap in financial assistance: Agricultural loans worth Rs 317 crore disbursed so far against the target of Rs 350 crore

Dhamtari district has also been at the forefront in providing adequate financial assistance to farmers for farming. Against a target of ₹350 crore, agricultural loans worth ₹317 crore have been distributed so far. Compared to the same period last year (₹265 crore), farmers received approximately ₹57 crore more in financial assistance.

Registration continues under Prime Minister Crop Insurance Scheme

Registration is ongoing under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to protect crops from natural disasters. Eligible crops include paddy (irrigated/non-irrigated), maize, pigeon pea, green gram, black gram, kodo, kutki, finger millet, and peanuts. Farmers can enroll in insurance by contacting their nearest Primary Agricultural Credit Cooperative Society, bank branch, CSC, insurance company portal/app, or patwari/agriculture officer.

Toll Free Helpline Number: 14447

The clear objective of the Dhamtari district administration is to make every farmer of the district self-reliant and prosperous through expansion of cooperative societies, uninterrupted supply of fertilizers and seeds, record loan distribution and crop insurance.

Chief Minister Holds Warm Interaction with Commonwealth Games 2026 Silver Medallist Gyaneshwari Yadav

Raipur, July , 2026/Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai spoke with the Commonwealth Games 2026 silver medallist, Gyaneshwari Yadav, via video call on July 28. He congratulated her on winning the silver medal in the women’s 53 kg weightlifting event, bringing pride to both Chhattisgarh and the nation.

Congratulating her on the historic achievement, the Chief Minister said the medal was the result of years of dedication, discipline and relentless hard work. Recalling that he had met her before she departed for the competition, Shri Sai said he was delighted to interact with her again after her success. He said her achievement had brought honour not only to Chhattisgarh but to the entire country and would inspire the state’s youth, especially young women and aspiring sportspersons. He also expressed confidence that she would continue to bring greater laurels to India and Chhattisgarh in future international competitions.

The Chief Minister said the state government remains committed to providing athletes with better training, modern facilities and every possible support so that the talented sportspersons of Chhattisgarh can continue to excel on the global stage.

Gyaneshwari Yadav thanked Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai for his warm wishes, encouragement and blessings. She said his support and the affection of the people of Chhattisgarh would motivate her to achieve even greater success in future competitions.

It may be noted that Gyaneshwari Yadav, a resident of Rajnandgaon, serves as an Assistant Sub-Inspector in the Chhattisgarh Police. Her dedication to both public service and sports has made her an inspiration for the youth, and her silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 has brought honour to both India and Chhattisgarh.