Historical example of social harmony with 6,412 couples 

 Raipur - Chhattisgarh has achieved a historic milestone in social harmony, public participation, and sensitive governance, establishing its unique identity globally. The state-level mass marriage ceremony organized under the Chief Minister's Kanya Vivah Yojana has been included in the Golden Book of World Records. By solemnizing the marriages of thousands of couples in a single day, Chhattisgarh has set an inspiring example of social unity and the spirit of Antyodaya, which is being lauded nationwide. On February 10th, in the presence of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, a grand ceremony was held at the Science College grounds in Raipur, where a total of 6,412 couples from across the state tied the knot. Of these, 1,316 couples were married live in Raipur, while the remaining couples joined this historic event virtually from various districts across the state. All marriages were solemnized in accordance with religious traditions and social customs, making this event not just a government event but a grand celebration of social harmony and collective happiness. The inclusion of this historic event in the Golden Book of World Records is a matter of pride and honor for Chhattisgarh. The ceremony was notable for the fact that couples from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, and the Baiga community, a special backward tribe, solemnized their marriages according to their respective religious customs. This event became a living symbol of Chhattisgarh's cultural diversity, mutual harmony, and spirit of religious harmony. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai stated on this occasion that the Chief Minister's Kanya Vivah Yojana has become a strong foundation of respect, trust, and social security for poor and needy families. He said that there was a time when the marriage of daughters was a major concern for economically weak families, but this scheme has alleviated that concern and brought new happiness and confidence to the lives of thousands of families. Under the scheme, each newly married couple was provided financial assistance of ₹35,000. Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade said that the Chief Minister's Kanya Vivah Yojana was initiated under the leadership of former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh, and the current government is committed to expanding it further and reaching the last person in society. He said that the government's priority is to ensure that the benefits of public welfare schemes reach every section of society and to further strengthen social harmony. This historic event is proof that when government schemes are implemented with sensitivity, public participation, and social cooperation, they no longer remain mere government schemes but become an inspiration for positive change in society. This achievement, recorded in the Golden Book of World Records, gives Chhattisgarh a new national identity in the field of social harmony and public welfare.

Delegates from across the country were impressed by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board's Fame Trip and appreciated its natural beauty, culture and hospitality.

Raipur

With the aim of promoting Chhattisgarh's tourist destinations and showcasing the state's natural and cultural heritage to the nation and the world, tour operators and travel agents from various states visited major tourist destinations in Bastar, Mainpat and Jashpur under the FAM Trip organized by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board. During this, the delegates closely observed Chhattisgarh's natural beauty, tribal culture and historical heritage and praised it profusely.

During the FAME trip, delegates were taken to the world-famous Chitrakoot Falls in Bastar district, where they enjoyed the natural beauty and were offered boating, which added to the thrilling experience. They also visited the ancient Shiva temple at Chitrakoot.

To introduce the delegates to the vibrant folk culture of Bastar, they were also taken to the famous Haat-Bazaar where they witnessed local cultural events like traditional cockfights and understood the unique tribal traditions of Bastar.

During this trip, the delegates were also taken to the historic town of Barsur, where they observed the famous Batisa Temple and the amazing and ancient statues of Lord Ganesha. These historical monuments introduced the delegates to the rich cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh.
During the trip, the delegation also met with administrative officials of the Bastar division. The delegates met with the Commissioner, Inspector General, and Superintendent of Police of Bastar to discuss tourism development, security arrangements, and tourist facilities in the region. The officials assured them that all necessary arrangements are being made to promote tourism in the Bastar region.

In this sequence, the delegates were also taken on a tour of the beautiful tourist destinations of Mainpat. They visited the Karma Ethnic Resort and Saila Resort, and experienced the natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Mainpat.

In addition, delegates were introduced to attractive tourist destinations such as the Church in Kunkuri, the Rajpuri Falls in Jashpur, and the Mahua Homestay in Kere Village, Jashpur. These sites highlighted Chhattisgarh's potential for eco-tourism and rural tourism.

Organized by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, this fame trip is being held from March 13th to March 18th, and includes approximately 28 tour operators and travel agents from various states across the country. These representatives are divided into two groups and are being taken on a tour of major tourist destinations in the northern and southern regions of the state.

Through this initiative, the Chhattisgarh Government and Tourism Board aim to directly introduce the tourism potential of the state to the tour operators from different states of the country, so that they can promote the tourist destinations of Chhattisgarh in their respective areas.

Under the guidance of Tourism and Culture Minister Mr. Rajesh Agrawal, the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board is continuously striving to give the state's tourism a new identity. Under the leadership of Tourism Board Chairman Mr. Neelu Sharma and Managing Director Mr. Vivek Acharya, several innovations are being implemented to develop and promote tourism facilities in the state.

The representatives associated with this Fame Trip praised the natural beauty, cultural diversity and warm hospitality of the people of Chhattisgarh and said that there is immense potential for tourism in the state and they will promote Chhattisgarh as an attractive tourist destination in their respective states.

The Fame Trip will conclude with an event in Raipur on March 18th, where representatives from both groups will gather and the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board will provide a detailed presentation on the state's tourism potential. This initiative will further enhance Chhattisgarh's tourism presence at the national level.

Chief Minister Pujya participated in the “Sindhiyat Jo Melo” organized by Chhattisgarhi Sindhi Panchayat.

Raipur / Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai attended the "Sindhiyat Jo Melo" organized by the Pujya Chhattisgarhi Sindhi Panchayat in the capital Raipur. On this occasion, he praised the unity of the Sindhi community and their fighting tradition, saying that the Sindhi community has faced the most difficult period in the country's history—the horrors of Partition. Despite this, this community has made significant contributions to the country's economic development by continuously progressing in the fields of trade and enterprise.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that at the time of Partition, many families of the Sindhi community had to abandon their ancestral property and homes, but they did not give up. With unwavering faith in their deity and hard work, they made a new beginning, and today the Sindhi community is charting new milestones of development. He said that this fighting spirit and self-confidence of the Sindhi community is inspiring for the entire society, and all members of the community deserve praise for it.

The Chief Minister said that such social and cultural events provide an opportunity for society to unite. When society is organized and strong, the nation also becomes stronger. He said that the unity of the Sindhi community is truly commendable and that the primary objective of such fairs is to keep the new generation connected to their roots, culture, and traditions. He was extremely pleased to see the enthusiastic participation of the youth in this fair.

Chief Minister Mr. Sai said that today, members of the Sindhi community are settled in every corner of the country and are achieving new heights of success through their hard work, dedication, and entrepreneurship. Starting with small businesses, they have grown their operations to great heights, a testament to their diligence and foresight.

The Chief Minister stated that the state government is continuously working for the overall development of the state. He added that the state government has fulfilled most of the guarantees promised by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Chief Minister Shri Sai, on this occasion, mentioned the Gaudham Yojana launched in the state today and said that under this scheme, Gaudhams have been established across the state. Through these Gaudhams, proper arrangements will be made for the protection and promotion of cattle. Here, arrangements for green fodder, medical facilities, cow catchers, medicines and other necessary arrangements will be made available for the animals. He said that in our culture, cow has been given the status of mother and we worship her. Panchagavya obtained from cow is considered like nectar, which holds special importance in our religious and social life.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also extended Chetrichandra festival greetings to all the people of the state in advance. During the program, he visited and appreciated the exhibition stalls set up by the community.

Cabinet Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap also spoke at the event, saying that the Sindhi community is a very hardworking community. He praised the exhibition organized by the community, saying that such events are a powerful medium to showcase the community's cultural richness.

On this occasion, Raipur Rural MLA Shri Moti Lal Sahu, Dhamtari Mayor Shri Ramu Rohra, President of Pujya Chhattisgarhi Sindhi Panchayat Shri Mahesh Daryani and a large number of eminent citizens of Sindhi community were present.

One day workshop organized on the topic Vision 2030

Jashpurnagar . The dream of a permanent home is coming true for rural families in the district through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). Under this ambitious central government scheme, safe and permanent housing is being provided to economically weak and needy families.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, the benefits of public welfare schemes are reaching the last person in the state. In this connection, Gyanu Bhagat, a resident of Bangurkela village in Jashpur district, has received benefits from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural).

Gyanu Bhagat explained that he and his family previously lived in a small mud house. During the rainy season, water would leak from the roof, and during the summer, the walls would become extremely hot. Furthermore, there was the constant fear of poisonous creatures. Frequent repairs to the house also caused financial difficulties.

He said he received approval for a permanent home under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). He is building his dream home by adding his savings to the government funding. Interior work is currently underway.

Gyanu Bhagat expressed his happiness at receiving a permanent home, saying it has brought a major change to his family's life. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai for this scheme.

Many needy families of the district are getting safe, respectable and permanent housing through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), due to which their standard of living is continuously improving.

Better operation of shuttering plate work

Raipur. In view of the Chaitra Navratri fair to be held at the Maa Bamleshwari Temple, Dongargarh, the South East Central Railway has decided to make special rail arrangements for the convenience of devotees. The fair will be held from March 19th to March 27th, 2026, and attracts a large number of devotees. Keeping in mind the increasing passenger flow, the railway administration has announced temporary stoppages for some trains, extended routes for others, and the operation of a special MEMU passenger train. As is the case every year, these arrangements are being made for the convenience of devotees during Navratri.
According to information, the 68742/68741 Gondia-Durg-Gondia MEMU passenger train will be temporarily extended to Raipur. The 68729/68730 Raipur-Dongargarh-Raipur MEMU passenger train is being extended to Gondia. Additionally, the 06886/06885 Dongargarh-Durg-Dongargarh MEMU passenger special train will also be operated to accommodate the additional passenger flow. According to the railway administration, some long-distance express trains will also be temporarily halted at Dongargarh station during the Navratri fair to facilitate pilgrims traveling from distant lands to reach the temple. These arrangements are expected to provide significant relief to devotees traveling during Navratri.

Raipur-Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today inaugurated the Gaushala (cowshed) in Lakhasar village of Takhatpur development block in Bilaspur district, marking a significant initiative towards cattle conservation in the state. After performing the ritualistic worship of the cow, he inspected the Gaushala premises and inquired about the arrangements there. Chief Minister Shri Sai inspected the care, fodder, water, and health facilities for the destitute and stray animals sheltered there, and also visited the pasture. It is noteworthy that the Gaushala has been developed on approximately 25 acres in Lakhasar village, of which 19 acres are used for growing green fodder for the animals. The Gaushala is operated by the Kamdhenu Gaushala Committee. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the objective of the Gaushala Scheme being launched by the state government is to provide safe shelter to destitute cattle in the state, promote their protection, and strengthen the rural economy. He stated that cattle are an important foundation of our rural culture, agricultural system, and economy, and therefore the state government is continuously making efforts to conserve and promote them. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the state government is implementing the Gaudham Yojana (Cowshed) in a phased manner across the state to protect cows and care for stray cattle. This will strengthen the tradition of cow service and promote livestock conservation. He announced on this occasion that all cowsheds in the state will now be known as Surabhi Gaudham. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that various training programs will also be conducted in the state's cowsheds. Training will be provided in animal husbandry, green fodder production, and the production of useful products from cow dung. This will provide self-employment opportunities for local residents and strengthen the rural economy, in addition to cow service. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai also made several important announcements for the development of Lakhasar village. He announced the construction of Mahatari Sadan, a mini stadium, and a 500-meter-long Gaurav Path in Lakhasar. He also announced the approval of ₹25 lakh for the construction of a training building at Lakhasar Gaushala, as well as the provision of a cow catcher and an animal ambulance, which will further strengthen cow protection and local development efforts in the area. During the program, Chief Minister Shri Sai interacted with local cattle herders and villagers, inquiring about the efforts being made for cow protection, and commended those involved in this service. He congratulated the cow service workers for their noble work and urged them to continue such service in the future, motivating everyone to protect cows and serve them. Takhatpur MLA Shri Dharmjeet Singh said that Chhattisgarh is experiencing all-round development under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai. He added that the Chief Minister fulfills every promise he makes. He added that Chief Minister Shri Sai has approved several important development projects for the Takhatpur region.Many of these projects have been completed, and many more are in progress. Expressing his gratitude to the Chief Minister for this, he said that the government's efforts have given new impetus to development in the region. Mr. Visheshwar Patel, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Gauseva Commission, delivered a welcome address, felicitating Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai and thanking him for the launch of the Gaudham Yojana. He stated that this initiative by the state government will provide a new direction to cattle conservation and strengthen the protection of destitute and abandoned cattle. Union Minister of State Mr. Tokhan Sahu, Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister Mr. Ramvichar Netam, MLAs Mr. Amar Agarwal, Mr. Dharamlal Kaushik, Mr. Sushant Shukla, Bilaspur Commissioner Mr. Sunil Jain, Inspector General Mr. Ramgopal Garg, Collector Mr. Sanjay Agarwal, SSP Mr. Rajnesh Singh, Director of Veterinary Medicine Mr. Chandrakant Verma, along with a large number of farmers, livestock farmers, and villagers were present on the occasion. 

RaipurChief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today launched the state government's ambitious Gaudham Yojana (Cow Shelter Scheme) at a program held at Guru Ghasidas Central University in Bilaspur. In the first phase of the scheme, 29 Gaudhams have become operational in 11 districts of the state. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also laid the foundation stone for the state's first cow sanctuary in Jogipur village of Kota development block in Bilaspur district. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the proposed cow sanctuary in Jogipur will be developed on an area of ​​approximately 184 acres. The state government has approved ₹1.32 crore for its development in the first phase. Upon completion, it will be able to provide shelter and care for approximately 2,500 cattle simultaneously. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the cow is an important pillar of Indian culture, faith, and the rural economy. Through the Gaudham Yojana, shelter will be provided to destitute and nomadic cattle and livestock conservation will be promoted. He stated that the state government is working with full commitment to promote cattle protection and cow service. The Chief Minister stated that an MoU has been signed with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to encourage animal husbandry and milk production in the state. Under this initiative, cow distribution has also been initiated in several districts, which is yielding positive results in increasing milk production in the state. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that cow shelters will ensure fodder, water, and proper care for the cattle. This will also create local employment opportunities. He also announced that all cow shelters established on government land in the state will now be known as Surabhi Cow Shelters. He added that training programs related to animal husbandry, green fodder production, and the production of useful products from cow dung will also be conducted in these cow shelters. This will provide self-employment opportunities to local people and strengthen the rural economy. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that this scheme is also likely to reduce road accidents, as stray cattle will be provided safe shelter. Union Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu said that the launch of the Gaudham Yojana is a sacred occasion. He said that cow service is an integral part of Indian culture and tradition and cow protection will also strengthen the rural economy. Agriculture and Livestock Development Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam said that today is a historic day for Chhattisgarh, when the Gaudham Yojana is being launched simultaneously in the entire state. He said that 10 cow shelters each would be established in all the development blocks of the state in a phased manner, which would not only protect the cows but would also provide self-employment opportunities to the people. Chairman of Chhattisgarh Gau Seva Aayog, Visheshwar Patel said that mother cow is very important for our existence and the state government is working with a well-planned action plan for the protection of cows. MLA Shri Amar Agrawal, Shri Dharamlal Kaushik, Shri Dharamjeet Singh, Shri Sushant Shukla, Mayor Smt. Pooja Vidhani, Commissioner Bilaspur Shri Sunil Jain, IG Shri Ramgopal Garg, Collector Shri Sanjay Agrawal, SSP Shri Rajnesh Singh, were present in the program.Director of Veterinary Medicine Shri Chandrakant Verma along with a large number of cowherds and dignitaries were present. 

0 Health Minister directs to prepare an action plan for regular monitoring and inspection of IVF and surrogacy centres
00 PCPNDT and ART Acts will be strictly followed in the state, important instructions given in the meeting of the Health MinisterRaipur. A meeting of the State Supervisory Board was held under the chairmanship of Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal to improve the sex ratio in the state and better implementation of reproductive services. The meeting reviewed the effective implementation of the PCPNDT Act 1994 and the ART-Surrogacy Act 2021. MLAs Ms. Lata Usendi (Kondagaon), Mrs. Raimuni Bhagat and Mrs. Gomti Sai, along with Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary Amit Kataria, Education Commissioner Ritesh Agarwal and other members were present in the meeting.

During the meeting, Director of Epidemic Control, Dr. Surendra Pambhoi, provided information on the provisions of both Acts and the current status of their implementation in the state. The Health Minister directed that strict compliance with the PCPNDT and ART Acts be ensured in the state, so that illegal activities like sex selection can be completely stopped. Several important decisions were taken in the meeting to improve the sex ratio. Minister Shri Jaiswal directed that a detailed study be conducted of the three districts with the highest and lowest sex ratios in the state, so that the reasons for the disparity can be identified and corrective measures can be taken.
In view of the lack of sonography services in the state, Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal also directed that a maximum number of participants be included in the six-month training program for MBBS doctors, so that this facility can be made available even in remote areas.

It was also decided in the meeting that an action plan will be prepared for regular monitoring and inspection of IVF and surrogacy centres operating in the state, so that the concerned beneficiaries do not have to face unnecessary problems. Congratulating all the members present in the meeting, the Health Minister said that providing better reproductive health services to the poor and common people in the state is the priority of the government. In this sequence, it has been decided to start IVF facility soon in Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Raipur, so that needy couples can get free benefits.

00 Principal Secretary Barik inspected Goat Quarantine Centre and e-Goat Control Unit at Serikhedi in Raipur, appreciated it
Raipur. Principal Secretary Panchayat and Rural Development Mrs. Niharika Barik Singh inspected Goat Quarantine Centre and e-Goat Control Unit established under Project Aaja, operated as per the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, at CMTC Centre Serikhedi in Raipur and appreciated the work being done in the district. During this, Chief Executive Officer of Zila Panchayat Shri Kumar Biswaranjan gave detailed information about the working of the project and the benefits derived from it.During the inspection, Mrs. Champa Mandle, a beneficiary from village Kosrangi, said that under Project Aaja, she has received 10 goats and 2 rams, goat shed, medicines and technical support. This has increased her income and she has now become financially self-reliant and is contributing to the family expenses. It is noteworthy that Project Aaja is being operated under the guidance of Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh. After this, the Principal Secretary discussed with the Board of Directors and shareholders of Goat Agri Farmer Producer Company Limited, formed in Raipur, at the CMTC Training Center in Serikhedi and obtained information from the beneficiaries about the benefits being received from Project Aaja.

On this occasion, the Principal Secretary also issued several important state-level directives. He stated that successful models like Project Aaja should be expanded in five districts identified for goat rearing clusters, particularly in the Bastar division, along the lines of Raipur district. Additionally, livestock entrepreneurs working in Raipur should be given the opportunity to serve in these districts as master trainers. He also directed that the Serikheri center be developed as a model center, so that beneficiaries from other districts can come here for training and experience.

00 Use of Modern Technology in South East Central Railway
Raipur. South East Central Railway is continuously working towards adopting modern technologies to strengthen the safety, reliability and efficiency of operations. In this sequence, Raipur Division of South East Central Railway has started using drone technology with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make the monitoring and maintenance of railway electrical infrastructure more effective.

The Raipur Division's Electrical (TRD) department has deployed state-of-the-art drones to inspect overhead equipment (OHE) structures. This technology allows for detailed and precise inspections of OHE structures, fittings, and other electrical infrastructure from a height. Drones enable surveillance of many locations where traditional manual inspections are difficult or where detecting minor technical defects is challenging.High-quality images and videos obtained from drones are being analyzed using artificial intelligence-based tools. AI-based analysis is proving helpful in identifying potential technical faults faster and with greater accuracy. This allows for detailed inspection of various OHE components and fittings in a shorter timeframe, enabling timely corrective action.

Timely identification of faults can prevent potential major technical faults or breakdowns. This not only ensures the safety and reliability of rail operations but also significantly contributes to the smooth and uninterrupted operation of trains.
This initiative by South East Central Railway to adopt modern technologies is an important step towards further strengthening the monitoring, maintenance, and safety of railway infrastructure. This integration of AI and drone technology is proving to be helpful in modernizing railway operations and further strengthening safety standards. This initiative is the result of the able guidance and continuous encouragement of Mr. Tarun Prakash, General Manager, South East Central Railway, under whose guidance the Railways is continuously working towards strengthening safety, reliability, and operational efficiency by adopting innovative and modern technologies.

Raipur . In view of the fair to be held at Maa Bamleshwari Temple, Dongargarh during Chaitra Navratri, South East Central Railway has made special rail arrangements for the convenience of the devotees. Keeping in mind the increasing number of visitors to this fair to be held from March 19 to March 27, 2026, it has been decided to temporarily stop some trains, extend some trains and run a MEMU passenger special train.

According to the railway administration, like every year, a large number of pilgrims arrive in Dongargarh this time too. In view of this, special arrangements have been made to provide easy transportation for passengers.

According to information, train number 68742/68741 Gondia–Durg–Gondia MEMU Passenger is being temporarily extended to Raipur. The 68729/68730 Raipur–Dongargarh–Raipur MEMU Passenger has been extended to Gondia. Additionally, the 06886/06885 Dongargarh–Durg–Dongargarh MEMU Passenger Special train will also be operated.

The railway administration announced that some long-distance express trains will also be temporarily halted at Dongargarh station between March 19 and 27, allowing pilgrims to easily visit the Maa Bamleshwari Temple. The railway has urged passengers to take advantage of this facility.

Raipur . Village Industries Minister Gajendra Yadav's grant demands for the Village Industries Department for the year 2026-27, totaling ₹228 crore 84 lakh 90 thousand, were passed in the Assembly on March 13th. He stated that the state government is committed to strengthening the rural economy, in accordance with Prime Minister Modi's commitment and vision of a developed India.

Minister Yadav stated that the government's objective is to create new employment opportunities in rural areas by encouraging traditional weavers, artisans, and cottage industries, and to preserve traditional art and culture. Promoting

employment in rural areas
, Yadav stated that various beneficiary-oriented schemes are being implemented in the rural areas of the state through the Silk, Handloom, Handicrafts Development Board, Khadi and Village Industries Board, and the Clay Art Board. Through these schemes, approximately 315,350 people are being provided direct and indirect employment. The Minister

of the Silk Division,
Village Industries, informed that in order to promote the production and expansion of tussar silk in the state, a provision of Rs. 59 crore 82 lakh has been made under the Natural and Cultivated Tussar Cocoon Production Development Scheme in the year 2026-27. Through this scheme, a target of producing 21 crore 59 thousand tussar cocoons has been set in the state. To encourage the development and expansion of mulberry silk, a provision of Rs. 4 crore 25 lakh has been made under the Mulberry Silk Extension Program and Motivation Development Scheme. Along with this, a budget of Rs. 76 lakh has been kept in the year 2026-27 under the Training and Research Scheme, through which 1450 beneficiaries will be trained in modern techniques.

Handloom Division:
Under the Samagra Handloom Vikas Yojana, for the works like training of weavers of the state, availability of advanced looms, construction of workshop building, warehouse and design development, 1206 weavers were benefited by approving an amount of Rs. 5 crore 3 lakh 54 thousand till February 2026 in the year 2025-26. A provision of Rs. 5 crore 60 lakh has been made for this in the budget of the year 2026-27.

Weavers Workshop-cum-Housing Scheme:
Minister Yadav informed that to provide housing to homeless weavers, under the Weavers Workshop-cum-Housing Scheme, an amount of Rs. 4 crore 90 lakh has been approved till February 2026 in the year 2025-26 and 196 weavers have been benefited. A provision of Rs. 4 crore 90 lakh has also been made for the year 2026-27. Additionally, 47,640 weavers from 335 weaver committees are getting employment through government textile supplies. Meanwhile, sewing uniforms is providing additional employment to 23,052 women from 1,921 women's self-help groups.

Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board
The Village Industries Minister informed that the Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board is actively working to create employment through cottage industries in rural areas. Under the Chief Minister's Employment Generation Programme, projects worth Rs. 11 crore 3 lakh were approved for 502 units in the year 2024-25, out of which Rs. 3 crore 67 lakh 81 thousand was provided as grant assistance. A budget provision of Rs. 8 crore has been made for the establishment of family-based units in the year 2026-27.

Chhattisgarh Handicraft Development Board Minister Yadav informed that the Handicraft Development Board is working to promote the state's traditional crafts such as bell metal, iron craft, bamboo craft, wood craft, stone craft, tattoo craft, wall painting, tumba craft, terracotta craft, carpet craft and embroidery. A provision of Rs
. 3 crore 90 lakh has been made in the year 2026-27 to provide training, advanced equipment and machinery to the artisans.

Ekta Mall
Yadav stated that the PM Ekta Mall has been established in Raipur to promote the marketing of products based on the state's traditional art and culture and "One District One Product." A budget provision of ₹93 crore has been made for this in the year 2026-27.

Chhattisgarh Matikala Board
Village Industries Minister stated that in order to make the state's potters self-reliant, the Matikala Board is providing free electric potter's wheels to registered artisans. So far, 9,464 electric potter's wheels have been distributed. A budget provision of ₹3 crore has been made for this in the year 2026-27.

Glazing Unit
He stated that five glazing units are being operated in the state to enhance the value of clay craft products. A provision of ₹4.3 crore has been made for their operation and for the establishment of a new glazing unit in village Goriya, development block Kunkuri, district Jashpur.

Employment and preservation of culture through rural industries
Minister Yadav expressed confidence that the Village Industries Department will not only increase livelihood opportunities at the local level by strengthening the traditional cottage industries, handicrafts and rural employment and self-employment of the state, but will also play an important role in the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of the state.

00 Work on the widening and strengthening of a 36.40 km road will begin soon.
Raipur. The state government has approved a tender for the Nandghat-Mungeli road worth ₹112 crore 88 lakh 50 thousand. Following the tender approval, work on the widening and strengthening of this 36.40 km road will commence soon. Deputy Chief Minister and Public Works Minister Shri Arun Saw has directed the Executive Engineer of the Mungeli Division of the Public Works Department to complete the work within the contracted timeframe. He has also directed him to ensure that the road is constructed in accordance with specifications, paying special attention to quality.
The Public Works Department has directed the Executive Engineer to ensure the execution and supervision of the contracted work in accordance with departmental standards. This work will not be sublet to anyone else, and power of attorney will not be valid for the execution of the work. The state government has approved the tender on the condition that a bank guarantee for the additional performance security amount, valid for the entire duration of the work, is obtained from the contractor before the contract is signed.