Chhattisgarh Tribal Advisory Council meeting concluded under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai.

Raipur, April 29, 2026/In the meeting of Chhattisgarh Tribal Advisory Council held today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai at Mantralaya, Mahanadi Bhawan, a comprehensive discussion was held on the all-round development of the tribal community and many important decisions were taken.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Bastar, which is geographically a larger area than Kerala, remained deprived of development for decades, but now schemes are being expanded rapidly there and a new stream of development is being established.

The Chief Minister gave top priority to the preservation of tribal culture and traditions and directed the protection of Devgudi and Sarna sites. He also stressed the need to take effective and strict measures to prevent illegal encroachment. He informed that through the "Dharti Aba Gram Utkarsh Yojana," education and health facilities are being strengthened in 6,600 villages of the state, while 32,000 houses have been approved under the PM Janman Yojana.

Discussing the remarkable success of the "Niyad Nella Naar Yojana" at the meeting, Chief Minister Shri Sai announced the imminent implementation of "Niyad Nella Naar 2.0" as its next phase. He said that this innovative initiative will further expand basic amenities like electricity, water, roads, and rations in remote areas. Additionally, health checkups for 3.6 million people under the "Chief Minister's Swasth Bastar Yojana" are progressing steadily.

Chief Minister Shri Sai directed an investigation into cases of exploitation of tribal land on long-term leases. He also directed that a proposal for inclusion of the Korwa and Sansari Oraon tribes in the Scheduled Tribe list be submitted to the Central Government soon.

To strengthen education and infrastructure, Chief Minister Shri Sai stressed the need to increase hostel seats, improve their maintenance, and ensure adequate teacher availability. He also issued clear instructions to develop accelerated learning systems for children in Naxal-free areas and to avoid conducting classes in the open.

Expressing displeasure over the slow progress in the construction of the Ambikapur National Highway, Chief Minister Shri Sai directed for timely and quality completion of the work. He also stressed the need to pay special attention to the roads that are prone to erosion during the rainy season.

Ramvichar Netam, Minister of the Tribal Development Department and Vice President of the Council, said that Naxalism remained the biggest obstacle to development in remote tribal areas of the state, including Bastar and Surguja, for a long time. After being freed from this challenge of the past four decades, effective and rapid implementation of public welfare schemes has now become possible in these areas, the direct benefits of which are reaching the local people. He said that tribal communities are now rapidly joining the mainstream of development and are receiving new opportunities for progress.

Mr. Netam also stated that the elimination of Naxalism has ensured better implementation of schemes at the grassroots level. All departments have been instructed to work in coordination with each other and complete approved schemes in a timely manner. He urged public representatives and officials to resolve sensitive issues promptly and on a priority basis.

He said that basic amenities like electricity, water, and roads are now reaching the settlements of Specially Backward Tribes. Furthermore, the construction of new hostels is providing better opportunities for talent from remote areas to thrive, paving the way for their overall development.

On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saw, Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Vice President of Bastar Development Authority Ms. Lata Usendi, Vice President of Surguja Area Development Authority Smt. Gomti Sai, Vice President of Central Area Development Authority Shri Pranav Marpachchi, MLA Smt. Raimuni Bhagat, MLA Shri Chaitram Atami, MLA Shri Vikram Usendi, MLA Smt. Uddeshwari Paikra, MLA Shri Neelkanth Tekam, MLA Shri Asharam Netam, Chief Secretary Shri Vikasshiil, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary of Tribal Development Department Shri Sonmani Bora, Director General of Police Shri Arun Dev Gautam along with secretaries of various departments and members of the council were present.

Students of Prayas schools performed well in CG Board examinations

100% success in 10th and 12th, remarkable position in the merit list

Deepanshi, a Class 10 student, secured 98.83 percent marks and secured second place in the state.

13 students from Prayas schools made it to the top 10.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam extended their greetings and best wishes.

Students of Chhattisgarh's 'Prayas' schools have created history of excellence with limited resources: Principal Secretary Shri Sonmani Bora

Raipur, 29 April 2026/ The 'Prayas' residential schools, run by the Tribal, Scheduled Caste and Other Backward Class and Minority Development Department of Chhattisgarh, have set an example not only at the state level but also at the national level by achieving unprecedented success in the 10th and 12th board examinations of the Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education this year. Under the continuous support and guidance of the department, despite limited resources and challenging circumstances, the students of these schools have given a tough competition to big private schools by giving excellent results. 13 children from Prayas schools have succeeded in making it to the top-10 of the CG Board examination.

It is noteworthy that the Chhattisgarh government runs a total of 17 Prayas schools. Children from all walks of life, including those affected by Naxalism, are studying there. Through the Prayas residential schools, children have found renewed courage, which is proving useful in realizing their dreams. It should be noted that through the Prayas schools, children are provided completely free education. Additionally, high-level coaching institutes provide preparation for competitive exams like NIT, IIT, NEET, JEE, and other national and state-level competitive exams.

For this success of Prayas Vidyalaya, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Tribal Development Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, Scheduled Caste Development Minister Guru Khuswant Saheb, Backward Class and Minority Welfare Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal and Principal Secretary of the Department Shri Sonmani Bora along with departmental officers-employees and students have been congratulated and wished.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai expressed his pleasure at the students' achievement and extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes. He stated that this success validates the validity of the Prayas Residential Schools concept. Tribal Development Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam commended the continued efforts to ensure quality education. This achievement by the students of Prayas Residential Schools is a matter of pride for the state and will serve as an inspiration for other students.

Principal Secretary Mr. Sonmani Bora stated that despite limited resources, the students of Prayas Vidyalaya have performed exceptionally well in the CG Board exams. The department always encourages children to develop academics, as well as moral and practical education. He added that this achievement is not only a matter of pride for a tribal-dominated state like Chhattisgarh, but also demonstrates that talent, given the right direction, dedication, and opportunity, can overcome any obstacle. This success is emerging as an inspiring model in the field of education, garnering praise across the country.

During a meeting of the Tribal Advisory Council, Principal Secretary Mr. Bora informed Chief Minister Mr. Vishnudev Sai that 13 of the state's 50 meritorious students are from Prayas Vidyalaya. Chief Minister Mr. Vishnudev Sai expressed his happiness and urged them to do even better in the future.

Mr. Bora stated that a total of 128 students from Prayas Residential School passed the Higher Secondary Examination (Class 12th) in first division. Nineteen students from Prayas Residential School, Gudiari, Raipur, scored more than 90 percent. Ragini Kanwar, a student from Korba district, secured first place in the school by scoring 95 percent. Two students scoring 100 out of 100 in Biology is a special achievement.

Chhattisgarh Tribal Advisory Council Meeting Held Under Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, April 29, 2026/

A meeting of the Chhattisgarh Tribal Advisory Council was held at Mahanadi Bhawan under the chairmanship of Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on April 29. The meeting discussed the all-round development of tribal communities and approved several important decisions aimed at faster progress in remote regions.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Bastar, a region geographically larger than Kerala, remained deprived of development for decades. He stated that government schemes are now expanding rapidly in the area, and a new phase of growth has begun.

Giving top priority to protecting tribal culture and traditions, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure the safety of Devgudi and Sarna religious sites. He also stressed the need for strict action against illegal encroachment. He informed that education and healthcare facilities are being strengthened in 6,600 villages under the “Dharti Aaba Gram Utkarsh Yojana”, while 32,000 houses have already been sanctioned under the PM JANMAN Yojana.

Reviewing the success of the “Niyad Nella Nar Yojana”, Chief Minister Shri Sai announced that its next phase, “Niyad Nella Nar 2.0”, will be launched soon. He said the upgraded initiative will further expand basic facilities such as electricity, drinking water, roads and ration services in remote tribal areas. He also stated that health screening of 36 lakh people is progressing continuously under the “Mukhyamantri Swasth Bastar Yojana”.

The Chief Minister directed an inquiry into cases involving long-term lease exploitation of tribal land. He also instructed officials to quickly send a proposal to the Central Government for the inclusion of the Korwa and Sansari Oraon communities in the Scheduled Tribe list.

To strengthen education and infrastructure, Chief Minister Shri Sai emphasised increasing hostel capacity, improving maintenance, and ensuring adequate teacher availability. He instructed the officials to develop a fast-track learning environment for children in Naxal-free areas and that open-air classes should not be conducted.

Expressing displeasure over the slow pace of construction on the Ambikapur National Highway, the Chief Minister directed officials to complete works within timelines and maintain quality standards. He also stressed the need to focus on roads that get cut off during the monsoon season.

Shri Ramvichar Netam, Minister for Tribal Development and Vice-Chairman of the Council, stated that for many years, Naxalism remained the biggest hurdle to development in remote tribal regions, including Bastar and Surguja. He said that after relief from this four-decade challenge, welfare schemes can now be implemented effectively and rapidly, directly benefiting local people.

He added that the tribal community is now joining the mainstream of development more quickly and receiving new opportunities for progress. He said better ground-level implementation of schemes has become possible after the decline of Naxalism, and all departments have been directed to complete approved works in a time-bound manner through coordination.

Shri Netam also stated that electricity, water and road connectivity are now reaching settlements of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups, while new hostels are creating better opportunities for talented youth from remote areas

Governor Shri Ramen Deka met with female students of Sant Govind Ram Shadani Government Arts and Science College, Devendra Nagar, Raipur, at Lok Bhavan today. He discussed academic topics, provided guidance, and addressed their questions appropriately.

In his inspiring address at the program held at the Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Lok Bhavan, Mr. Deka said that discipline is most important for students. Without it, success is impossible. To fulfill life, one must work in a planned manner. Good planning will lead to a better life. Hard work is also required to achieve goals. It is also essential to have human qualities, and education develops these qualities. Mr. Deka said that our happiness lies within ourselves. Don't be unhappy by comparing yourself to others, but be content with what you have.

Mr. Deka said that women have the highest place in our culture. Comparing women to water, he said that life is impossible without water, similarly creation cannot be imagined without women. During the discussion, the girl students asked the Governor how to convert stress into positive energy, what efforts should be made to stay away from social media, the importance of skills and training, how can one contribute to the development of the country and the state. The students asked interesting questions like women empowerment, any inspiring incident from their school and college life and what they liked the most in Chhattisgarh.

By successfully completing their self-enumeration process, Shri Vinayak Goyal, MLA of the Chitrakot Assembly constituency, and Shri Ritesh Joshi, Vice President of the Tokapal Janpad Panchayat, have set an inspiring example, strengthening the foundation of development in the region and ensuring participation in an accurate data system of governance. Administrative officials and ground-level workers actively participated in this important task, ensuring the process was completed with complete transparency and accuracy.

Tehsildar Tokapal was specially present to guide public representatives and ensure technical clarity in this work. The enumerator and field trainer from village Dharamour provided necessary guidance during the census and assisted in data entry through digital means. MLA Shri Vinayak Goyal stated on this occasion that self-enumeration is not merely an administrative process, but rather a foundation for better implementation of future schemes. He conveyed to the residents that it is every citizen's responsibility to share accurate information so that the benefits of government policies can reach every household. District Panchayat Vice President Shri Ritesh Joshi also praised the administration's initiative and encouraged the field staff. Praising the support provided by the Tehsildar and his team, he described this work as an important step towards the digital empowerment of the area.

Highlights:
• Meat shops will remain closed in Raipur on Buddha Jayanti on May 1
• Order issued on the instructions of Mayor Meenal Choubey
• Strict action will also be taken against sale in hotels and shops
• Officials will monitor at the zone leve

Raipur. A complete ban has been imposed on the sale of meat and mutton in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti on Friday, May 1st. The Municipal Corporation administration issued this order on the instructions of Mayor Meenal Choubey. All meat shops in the city will remain closed on this day, and no animal slaughter will be permitted.

Order and preparation of the corporation

Under the direction of the Urban Administration and Development Department, the Municipal Health Department has ordered all slaughterhouses and meat shops to remain closed. The administration says this decision was taken keeping in mind religious and social sensitivities. Officials have already been alerted to ensure compliance.

Strict monitoring at the zone level

The Municipal Corporation administration has clarified that all zone health officers and sanitation inspectors in the city will conduct frequent inspections in their respective areas. If any violations are found, immediate action will be taken. Officials have been specifically instructed to maintain vigilance throughout the

Action also taken against hotels and shops

According to the Mayor's instructions, if any hotel, restaurant, or shop is found selling meat, the establishment will be immediately seized. Strict punitive action will also be taken against the individual or organization concerned, as per the law.

Emphasis on social harmony

The Municipal Administration believes that such decisions maintain social harmony and respect religious sentiments in the city. This order aims to maintain peace and harmony on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Jayanti

Raipur, 29 April 2026/As per the order of Directorate of Funds, Accounts and Pension, applications will be accepted for the upcoming accounting training session from July 2026 to October 2026 between 01 May 2026 to 29 May 2026.

Applications received before or after this date will not be considered. Only applications in the prescribed format will be valid. According to information received from the Principal, Government Accounting Training School, clerical staff who have completed three years of regular service for the accounting training session from July 2026 to October 2026 can submit applications in the prescribed format through their office head. These applications must be received at the Government Accounting Training School, Nagar Ghadi Chowk, Raipur, during office hours by May 29, 2026.
Applications will be accepted only on the standard application form. The application will be valid only for the training session for which it is submitted. Previously circulated application forms will not be accepted. Other necessary relevant documents must be attached to the application form. The prescribed application format and instructions can be viewed on the notice boards of all district treasuries in Raipur division.

17 patients referred, 14 Ayushman cards, 11 free spectacles, Swasthya Bastar campaign a huge success

Raipur, 29/ An inspiring initiative has emerged in Sukma district under the Swasthya Bastar Abhiyan, where the health team made commendable efforts to provide better treatment to a patient from a remote and inaccessible area. Under the direction and guidance of Collector Mr. Amit Kumar, the Potkapalli Health Department team transported the patient from Putepadh village first to Kistaram and then to the District Hospital, Sukma. During this journey, the patient traveled a total of 310 kilometers, making timely treatment possible.

This success was possible due to consistent screening, effective counseling, timely referrals, and a robust follow-up system. The coordination of the Sector Medical Officer and the hard work of health workers made this campaign even more effective. This is considered an important step towards providing healthcare facilities in remote areas.

As part of the campaign, a total of 17 patients from the interior villages of Kistaram and Maraiguda were referred to the district hospital. Ayushman cards were printed on the spot for 14 of these patients, ensuring financial savings during treatment. Two patients with asthma and two with swollen feet were also referred for specialized testing and treatment.

Additionally, patients from the Konta area underwent eye examinations and 11 received free eyeglasses, while those suffering from cataracts were advised to undergo surgery. The efforts of health workers from the Maraiguda sector and the Potkapalli team demonstrate that the Swasthya Bastar Abhiyan is truly becoming a life-saving initiative for remote areas.

Light returns to Padma's home in Bastar

Raipur, April 29, 2026/ For Padma Kashyap, who lives in Balenga, a small village nestled in the dense forests of Bastar, the past few years have been filled with darkness and uncertainty. But today, there's a smile on Padma's face, and hope shines through her small home. This change has come about thanks to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai's "Electricity Bill Payment Solution Scheme 2026."

Shadows of darkness amidst conflict

Padma's story is one of struggle and perseverance. After losing her parents at a young age, Padma was left alone at home. With no stable source of income, meeting life's basic needs was a daunting challenge. Amidst this financial hardship, the household electricity bill swelled to ₹9,000. For an orphaned daughter struggling to make ends meet, paying such a substantial amount was impossible. Unable to pay the bill, the household's electricity was on the verge of being cut off, and Padma's future was bleak.

The scheme gave new life

When Padma learned about the state government's electricity bill payment settlement scheme, she saw a glimmer of hope. Given the sensitivity of Padma's case, the scheme provided direct relief of Rs. 4,000 on her outstanding bill. This wasn't just a monetary relief, but a way to make an orphaned daughter feel that her government stood by her. With this assistance, Padma was able to pay her remaining dues and avoid power outages in her home.

“Thanks to the Chief Minister, the darkness in my house has been dispelled.”

Sharing her joy, Padma says, "When the bill reached 9,000, I thought my house would never be illuminated again. But Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai's scheme helped me. The 4,000 rebate is a huge deal. Today, my house is illuminated again, and I sincerely thank the Chief Minister for this."

A new chapter of trust

Padma Kashyap's story represents thousands of families in Chhattisgarh who, due to financial constraints, were deprived of basic amenities. This policy of the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, demonstrates that the goal of governance is not merely development, but also "Antyodaya," or service to the last person.
The light bulb in Padma's home, in the remote forest region of Bastar, is now lit not only by electricity but also by unwavering faith in the government.

Strong Crackdown on Illegal Mining Through Drone Monitoring

High-Resolution Cameras, Night Vision and AI Systems Enable Wide and Accurate Surveillance

Drone Technology Enhances Speed and Precision of Enforcement Action

Major Action in Kanker District with Drone Support; Poclain Machine and Hyva Vehicle Seized

Raipur, 29 April 2026/

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the Chhattisgarh Government has taken a major and decisive step by adopting technology and innovation to curb illegal mining and unlawful transportation of minerals. As part of this initiative, drone surveillance has now been introduced in mining areas, proving to be an important measure for maintaining law and order, protecting mineral resources, and safeguarding government revenue.

The state government has made its intentions clear that all forms of illegal activity must be eliminated at the root. With the use of modern technology, real-time monitoring in mining zones is now possible, enabling immediate action against illegal excavation, transportation, and related operations. This step will not only prevent revenue losses but also send a strong message to those involved in unlawful trade. Field teams of the Mineral Resource Department had already been taking effective action against illegal mining. However, with the addition of drone technology, both the speed and accuracy of enforcement have increased significantly. Drones can monitor areas within a range of nearly five kilometres and at heights of up to 120 metres, allowing close watch over large and difficult geographical regions. Through drone surveillance, suspicious activities can be identified instantly and action can be taken on the spot, sharply reducing the chances of offenders escaping.

According to officials of the Mineral Resource Department, the drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras, night vision capability, and AI-based analytical systems, ensuring broad and precise surveillance. Even large and remote mining locations can now be monitored with ease.

This initiative clearly reflects that the state government is working with a policy of “zero tolerance” against illegal mining. The bold decision will not only ensure strict compliance with the law but will also strengthen mineral conservation and create a transparent revenue system. The new drone surveillance arrangement is emerging as a strong example of good governance and technological innovation in the state.

In continuation of this drive, on April 29, 2026, intensive surveillance and a raid operation were conducted using drone technology in the Tehkapaar sand mine area of Kanker district. During the operation, vehicles and equipment involved in illegal excavation and transportation were identified. As soon as drone monitoring began, those engaged in illegal activities abandoned their vehicles and fled the spot.

Thereafter, under the direction of the central flying squad and the Collector (Mining Branch), a special operation was carried out near the banks of the Mahanadi River at the Bhui Gaon boundary. During the action, one chain-mounted Poclain machine JCB (215 LC) and one Hyva vehicle bearing registration number CG08AV0975 were seized.

Raipur, April 29, 2026//

Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, hailed the efforts of the Chhattisgarh government for the effective implementation of the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Gramin (VB-G RAM G) Act, 2025.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, he stated that Chhattisgarh is undertaking well-planned and strategic initiatives to ensure the scheme’s provisions outreach at the grassroots, reflecting its commitment to rural development.

Shri Chouhan particularly appreciated the extensive public awareness campaigns being conducted through village meetings, Gram Sabhas, and social media. He described the installation of QR codes in every Gram Panchayat as an innovative step that will simplify access to information, enhance transparency, and strengthen monitoring.

He also highlighted effective inter-departmental coordination for the holistic development of forest regions and especially vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs), reflecting an inclusive and sustainable development approach. He noted that for the financial year 2025–26, the labour budget for Chhattisgarh under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme has been increased from 850 lakh person-days to 1250 lakh person-days, considering the rising trend in employment generation, calling it a positive outcome of the state’s sustained efforts.

The Union Minister expressed confidence that under the capable leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the state administration will continue working with the same commitment and energy, accelerating rural employment and livelihood generation while ensuring development benefits reach the last mile.

Raipur. The results of the 2026 high school and higher secondary main examinations conducted by the Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) will be declared tomorrow, April 29. School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav will release the results at 2:30 pm in Room No. S-2-12 of the Ministry, Mahanadi Bhawan, Atal Nagar, Raipur.

According to board officials, students will be able to check their results online as soon as they are released. The board has made arrangements for this on several official websites, so that students do not face any difficulties.

Candidates can access their results on the Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education website and other portals by entering their roll number. Students can log in to https://cg.results.nic.in , https://cgbse.nic.in , https://results.cg.nic.in , and https://results.digilocker.gov.in to access their results.

Apart from this, the exam results will also be available on media and education portals like The Times of India, TV9 Bharatvarsh, The Indian Express, Jagran Josh and NDTV.

Like every year, millions of students are awaiting their results. Once the results are released, students will be able to view their marks, pass/fail, and division information online. The board has urged students to check their results only on authorized websites.

Bhoomi Pujan and inauguration of development works worth Rs. 809.71 lakh
Raipur. With an aim to give new heights to the development of Narayanpur Vidhansabha constituency of Bastar district, State Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap gave a big gift to the people of Narayanpur area today. Shri Kashyap said that expansion of roads, education and basic facilities is the top priority of our government. Minister Shri Kashyap performed Bhoomi Pujan and inauguration of various infrastructural works costing a total of Rs. 8 crore 09 lakh 71 thousand in grand programs organized in Baniyagaon and Bhanpuri cluster under the Vidhansabha constituency.

Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap laid the foundation stone for works worth Rs 1 crore 47 lakh 76 thousand to improve the connectivity of the area in a program organized in Baniyagaon in the morning and dedicated the completed works to the public. This mainly included the ground breaking ceremony of the Baniyagaon to Kuchhiguda road to be built at a cost of Rs 1 crore 27 lakh 76 thousand under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, while the CC road of Turpura and the compound construction work of Kesharpal completed through Bastar Development Authority were inaugurated.

During his visit, the Forest Minister witnessed a major development initiative at the second phase of the program held in Bhanpuri this afternoon. Development projects worth a total of ₹66.1 million (61.95 million rupees) were approved. This included a network of roads from Bhanpuri to Paderpara, Farsaguda to Khaspara, and the Bhanpuri-Chitrakoot road to Dhanwadpara under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, to be built at a cost of ₹62.3 million (62.3 million rupees). The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a prayer shed at Murkuchi High School, along with the inauguration of newly constructed concrete roads and culverts in the Bhanpuri, Taragaon, and Vishrampuri clusters under the MLA fund and the Development Authority, brought significant relief to the residents of the area.
Addressing the villagers, the Forest Minister emphasized that his goal is not merely to make announcements, but to implement development on the ground. The roads and buildings for which the groundbreaking ceremony took place today will transform the economic and social landscape of the region in the future. Good roads not only facilitate transportation but also facilitate the villagers' access to education and health services. Forest Minister Mr. Kashyap said that we are constantly striving to connect every village of Narayanpur Assembly with the mainstream of development. Referring to the public welfare schemes of the state government, he assured the villagers that the development works will be completed as per the wishes of the villagers. He also appealed to the local public representatives and villagers to keep an eye on the quality of development works so that the people can get the benefits of the government schemes for a long time.
During the program, District Panchayat President Mr. Santosh Baghel, along with regional public representatives and a large number of villagers were present, who expressed happiness for these development works.

Raipur. In a major relief to the general public, the Chhattisgarh government has abolished the 0.60 percent cess levied on the registration of immovable property. This decision, taken under the guidance of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, is effective immediately. With the notification of the Chhattisgarh Cess (Amendment) Act, 2026, the cost of property registration will now be reduced.

The Chief Minister said that the government's objective is not only to increase revenue, but also to simplify and make life affordable for the general public. This decision will directly benefit farmers, middle-class families, and millions of people involved in property purchases and sales. Now the registry process will be more accessible, simple, and cost-effective.

Registration Minister OP Chaudhary stated that the Chhattisgarh Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed during the budget session. Upon notification, the additional 0.60 percent cess levied on the registration of immovable property was completely abolished.

He said this decision is particularly beneficial for middle- and lower-income families. For example, a property valued at ₹1 crore will now result in a direct savings of approximately ₹60,000. This will also bring transparency and speed to the property market.

It is noteworthy that in 2023, the then government imposed this cess to fund the Rajiv Gandhi Mitra Club and the Employment Mission. In 2024-25, the government received approximately ₹148 crore in revenue from this cess, while in the current financial year, ₹150 crore has been received so far. Despite this, the government has decided to waive this revenue in the public interest. This decision is expected to boost property registration in the state and provide a new impetus to economic activity.

00 Effective Initiatives Towards Respect, Security, and Self-Reliance
Author: Dr. Daneshwari Sambhakar, Deputy Director (Public Relations),
Raipur. The Chhattisgarh government is giving top priority to the respect, security, and overall well-being of senior citizens. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the state government has developed a robust and sensitive social security system for the elderly. Under the guidance of Social Welfare Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, departmental schemes are being effectively implemented on the ground. These efforts are empowering senior citizens economically, socially, and emotionally.
Simple Process, Easy Benefits
: Senior citizens in the state do not require a separate senior citizen card to avail benefits of schemes. Benefits are provided directly after verifying age and eligibility through Aadhaar card and other valid documents, making the entire process transparent, simple, and accessible.
Old Age Homes: The Foundation of a Respectable Life
The 27 old age homes operating in various districts, including the state capital Raipur, have emerged as safe havens for destitute and helpless senior citizens. Currently, 675 senior citizens are benefiting from this program. Free housing, nutritious food, clothing, and other essential amenities are regularly provided, allowing them to live a dignified life.

Palliative Care:
Thirteen palliative care homes operate in the state to provide specialized care to the seriously ill and bedridden elderly. Currently, 140 senior citizens are benefiting from these centers in Raipur, Kabirdham, Durg, Balod, Raigarh, and Bemetara. These centers provide ongoing care, treatment support, and essential services, ensuring a humane and dignified life even in vulnerable situations. Old
Age Pension:
Under Social Security, a foundation of economic support, eligible senior citizens are provided a regular pension. Senior citizens in the BPL and SECC disadvantaged groups receive a pension of ₹500 per month, and those over 80 receive ₹680 per month. This assistance strengthens their self-reliance and self-respect in their daily lives.
Assistive Devices and Pilgrimage: A New Energy Infusion
Under the Assistive Devices for Senior Citizens Scheme, the state government is providing assistive devices as needed to destitute senior citizens aged 60 years and above living below the poverty line. Under this scheme, devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, canes, hearing aids, spectacles, tricycles, and other essential items, up to a maximum of ₹6,900, are provided based on medical advice, making their lives more comfortable. The pilgrimage scheme to 19 major pilgrimage sites provides opportunities for spiritual and mental balance, which infuses new energy into their lives. In the financial year 2025-26, 14 pilgrimages benefited 10,694 beneficiaries. The Chhattisgarh government's
continuous efforts towards holistic well-being
aim not only to provide assistance but also to inspire senior citizens to actively participate in mainstream society. The state is establishing a robust, sensitive, and comprehensive social security system for its senior citizens through pensions, health care, housing, support services, and social engagement. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, these efforts will continue to progress even more effectively in the future, bringing dignity to the lives of the elderly.

00 They are also handling the responsibility of preparation of raw material, production, packaging, storage, quality testing and transportation
Raipur. Under the visionary initiative of Chhattisgarh Government, when the responsibility of local production and distribution of nutritious food to be distributed in Anganwadi centres was handed over to women self-help groups, then no one had thought that this step would bring such a big change in the lives of women. Earlier this work was done through Seed Development Corporation, but to make women self-reliant and to increase livelihood opportunities at local level, this important responsibility was given to women self-help groups. This change became the basis of their success story.

To implement this in Korba district, selected women self-help groups were provided specialized training in production techniques, quality control, packaging, and management. Modern production units were also established. Equipped with machinery, packaging equipment, and storage facilities, these units provided both a new workplace and a new perspective for rural women. When production began, women groups handled all responsibilities—raw material preparation, production, packaging, storage, quality testing, and transportation—with remarkable efficiency. Women received priority not only among group members but also among support staff, further expanding employment opportunities.

Working daily in these units rapidly enhanced the women's skills. They became decision-makers, not just participants. Their management skills improved, their leadership skills blossomed, and their collective decision-making power strengthened. Most importantly, these women now played a leading role in their families' economic activities. Regular income from producing nutritious food brought stability to the women's lives. Economic empowerment strengthened their families' positions and their self-confidence increased exponentially.

Women's groups are now providing quality take-home rations to approximately 72,000 beneficiaries. This will not only ensure timely supplies to Anganwadi centers but also demonstrate that village women are skilled and capable of handling any important responsibility with excellence.