0 Water conservation works are being identified with the participation of youth and women under the More Village - More Water - More Taria campaign
Raipur. Along with the Rice Festival, 'Employment Day' and 'Housing Day' were successfully organised in the Gram Panchayats of the state. With the initiative of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, under the "More Village-More Water - More Taria campaign" in "Nava Taria - Source of Income", sites for Nava Taria works were identified and an action plan was prepared with the active participation of youth and rural women.

Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA), the ongoing construction works in the Gram Panchayats were encouraged to be completed soon. Special emphasis was also laid on starting new demand-based works for the rural labour families holding job cards. 
On this occasion, a detailed action plan was discussed to complete the construction of houses approved under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin within 90 days. Along with this, the problems of the beneficiaries were resolved quickly by providing them information about the amount received.

During the program, self-help group members were encouraged to provide materials and engage in livelihood activities. Rainwater harvesting, geo-tagging, prompt complaint resolution, monitoring of panchayat work through QR codes, and widespread publicity of the schemes were also addressed. Public representatives, officials, employees, and villagers actively participated in the program.

Raipur. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, efforts are underway to provide clean drinking water to every household in Chhattisgarh under the Jal Jeevan Mission. In this regard, Jogimara village in Jashpur district has now become a new example of development by fully benefiting from the "Water for Every Home" facility.

Located approximately 20 kilometers from the district headquarters, this village is located in a geographically challenging area, with a large portion of the village covered in hilly terrain. Previously, villagers had to rely on traditional sources like streams and wells for drinking water. Women, in particular, had to trek down hillsides to fetch water from long distances, which was both time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Following the effective implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, an organized water supply system has been established in the village. Pipelines have been laid throughout the village from a 10 KL overhead tank, providing 56 functional household tap connections, ensuring regular access to clean and safe drinking water to every household, even those located in hilly areas.

This initiative has brought about widespread positive change in the village. Women no longer have to travel difficult paths to fetch water, saving them time and effort and allowing them to focus on other tasks. The availability of clean drinking water has reduced waterborne diseases and improved the health of villagers. Furthermore, children no longer have to spend time fetching water, which has positively impacted their school attendance and learning.

The scheme is operated and maintained by the village-level Water and Sanitation Committee, ensuring the smooth functioning of the water supply system. Community participation has also fostered a sense of responsibility and ownership among the people. Today, Jogimara village has become an inspiring example of the successful implementation of the "Har Ghar Jal" scheme, where the availability of clean drinking water has made the lives of villagers not only easier but also safer.

Raipur . In an important decision to strengthen the agriculture sector and provide better irrigation facilities to the farmers, the state government has given the second revised administrative approval of Rs 147.48 crore (one hundred forty seven crore forty eight lakh rupees) for the proposed Khutpali Diversion Scheme on Kanhar River under Balrampur development block of Balrampur- Ramanujganj district. On completion of the scheme, irrigation facility will be available in a total area of ​​3695 hectares including about 1975 hectares Kharif and 1720 hectares Rabi, which will provide huge benefits to the farmers of the area and will lead to a significant increase in agricultural production. 

The state government has directed that the project work be completed within the approved amount and the stipulated timeframe, and that tenders be invited only after technical approval has been obtained. All government rules and procedures will be followed before work begins, and a completion certificate will be submitted to the government after completion. Approval of the construction drawings and designs by a competent authority will be mandatory, and the tender process will only begin if at least 75 percent of the land is free of obstacles.

In case of land acquisition, expenditure will be made only within the limits of the approved amount and the savings from any other item will not be used without prior permission. If land acquisition is not proposed, then the construction work will be done on government land only and proper allotment of land will be ensured. Instructions have been given to keep the tender process transparent and competitive, to spend within the prescribed budget limit and to maintain economy and high quality in the construction work. In case of delay in the work, penalty will be imposed as per rules and unnecessary time extension will not be given.

The Chief Engineer has been entrusted with the responsibility of continuously monitoring the work and ensuring financial discipline in accordance with the provisions of the Chhattisgarh Financial Code. He has also been directed to properly assess the suitability of the scheme and implement it effectively in the public interest, thereby expanding irrigation facilities in the area and ensuring increased income for farmers.

Raipur. Show-cause notices have been issued to two firms based on irregularities discovered during inspections of agricultural input sales centers in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district. As per the collector's instructions, the Agriculture Department is conducting an intensive inspection campaign to ensure quality fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides are available to farmers before Kharif 2026.

In the Palari development block, the inspector inspected various agricultural service centers. During this period, a notice was issued to the concerned firm at the Palari Agricultural Service Center after the inventory register was found to be inadequately maintained. Similarly, in the Balodabazar development block, Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mr. Deepak Kumar Nayak, Fertilizer Inspector Loknath Diwan, and Fertilizer Branch Incharge Simanchal Gaur inspected Naveen Traders. During the inspection, stacking errors, a lack of inventory registers, and the license not being displayed in the designated place were found. Based on these irregularities, a notice has been issued to the firm and proceedings are underway to suspend the fertilizer authorization. Various agricultural centers were also inspected in the Kasdol and Bhatapara development blocks. The Deputy Director of Agriculture has instructed all inspectors to conduct regular inspections. The Agriculture Department has appealed to farmers to obtain a valid bill when purchasing agricultural inputs and to purchase fertilizer only through the POS machine.

Raipur. Mr. Gautam Patel, a progressive farmer from Sirshobha village in the Saraipali development block of Mahasamund district, has taken a significant step toward prosperity by adopting summer sunflower cultivation instead of traditional paddy cultivation. The Agriculture Department is providing ongoing technical guidance and support to encourage summer oilseed production.

Mr. Patel explained that he previously cultivated paddy, which required a lot of water and inputs. Last year, a water shortage affected his crop, resulting in financial losses. Consequently, under the guidance of the Agriculture Department, he cultivated sunflowers on approximately 1.5 acres this year.

Sunflower crop requires less water and less cost, due to which it is proving to be a profitable option for the farmers. At present, the condition of the crop is satisfactory and the production is estimated to be 8 to 10 quintals per acre. The total production is likely to be 12 to 15 quintals. As per the market price of Rs 4500 to 5500 per quintal, the income potential is around Rs 54 thousand to 82 thousand 500, in which a net profit of Rs 40 to 65 thousand is estimated. It is noteworthy that due to the provision of advanced seeds, technical advice and necessary support by the Agriculture Department, the farmers are successfully adopting the new farming method.

Raipur. The "Chief Minister's Naunihal Scholarship Scheme" has emerged as a new ray of hope for the working class families of Chhattisgarh, who dream big despite limited resources. An example of this is the family of Mrs. Pratibha Nishad, a registered construction worker living in Ward No. 6 of Mohla, whose son, Nehal Nishad, has received a scholarship under this scheme.

This support has been a lifeline for Pratibha Nishad, who dreams of providing a better education for her children despite financial constraints. Nehal's scholarship has not only eased his academic burden but also boosted his confidence. Now, he is pursuing his goal with even greater enthusiasm.

Under this scheme, run by the Labor Department, students from Class 1 through postgraduate, professional, and research programs are provided with assistance ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 rupees. Significantly, there are no marks requirements, allowing more children from working-class families to benefit. The success of this scheme in the Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district can be gauged from the fact that the target was to benefit 800 students in the 2025-26 academic year. However, through departmental efforts, 2,856 students were approved, representing 357 percent of the target.

Raipur. On the initiative of Governor Ramen Deka, a homeopathic health check-up camp was organised at Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Lok Bhawan on Monday. More than 60 officers-employees and their family members took benefit of the camp by getting their health check-up done.

Governor Deka visited the camp and got his blood pressure (BP) and weight checked. He motivated the officers-employees present to get regular health check-ups done and adopt a healthy lifestyle. The Governor said that by getting health check-ups done from time to time, it is possible to identify diseases in time and better treatment can be given.The camp provided free homeopathic medicines for various ailments, including blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, blood-related problems, sunstroke, and chickenpox. Doctors also provided health advice to attendees.Doctors and staff from Raipur Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital actively participated in this health camp. They examined patients, distributed necessary medicines, and also provided useful lifestyle advice.
This health camp organised in Lok Bhavan was appreciated by the officers, employees and their families, calling it a useful initiative.

Raipur. For consumers struggling with rising electricity bills and surcharges, the Chhattisgarh government's Chief Minister Electricity Bill Payment Solution Scheme has emerged as a new ray of hope. This scheme is not limited to mere discounts, but is also giving financially burdened families the opportunity to move forward with confidence and dignity.

Under the scheme, consumers receive a 50 to 75 percent discount on the principal outstanding amount and a 100 percent waiver of surcharges. Furthermore, the option of making a 10 percent down payment and paying the remaining amount in easy installments makes it even more accessible. The registration process is also simplified through the "More Bijli App" and at nearby distribution centers.

Shaheen Begum of Manendragarh is a living example of this. She received a significant relief after receiving a waiver of over ₹23,000 on her outstanding balance of approximately ₹48,000. This scheme, which benefits approximately 2.8 million consumers in the state, is providing relief of approximately ₹757 crore. This initiative is also strengthening a new foundation of trust between the government and citizens.

Raipur. Every person dreams of a permanent home where they can sleep peacefully. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has opened a new chapter in the life of Kanti, a resident of Pachautia village in the Mungeli development block. For Kanti, who had been dreaming of a permanent home for years, this scheme has been a boon. Previously, Kanti and her family lived in a mud house, facing hardships in every season. Leaking roofs during the rainy season, battling extreme heat in summer, and freezing cold in winter were part of their daily routine. Consequently, the need for a safe and sturdy home was constantly felt.
She was approved for a permanent home under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), after which she built her dream home. Now, Kanti and her family live a safe and dignified life in a permanent home. She says that she no longer has to face the vagaries of the weather, and the security of her home has given her peace of mind. Her children also have access to a better environment for their studies, strengthening the foundation for their future. Expressing gratitude to the government, he said that this scheme has brought happiness in his life and he has got the opportunity to live a respectable life.

Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai extended his best wishes to young mountaineer Ms. Amita Shrivas of Janjgir-Champa district for her upcoming Mount Everest expedition. During his meeting with mountaineer Ms. Amita Shrivas at the Chief Minister's residence in Raipur, the state capital, Sai stated that Ms. Amita is leaving for Kathmandu on April 9th ​​with the resolve to hoist the Indian flag atop Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. This is not merely a journey of personal achievement, but a soaring exaltation of the aspirations, courage, and self-confidence of the entire state of Chhattisgarh.

He stated that Amita's expedition is proof that if the resolve is unwavering, no height is impossible. Today, the state's daughters are setting new standards in every field with their talent and hard work, giving Chhattisgarh a new identity. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Amita Shrivas has already demonstrated her ability and perseverance by conquering Mount Kilimanjaro on the occasion of International Women's Day in 2021. His continuous efforts are not only an achievement but also a living inspiration for the young generation of the state, especially the daughters.

Raipur. A historic moment for Chhattisgarh and the country came when Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the end of armed Naxalism in the House on March 31st. Chhattisgarh, which had grappled with this problem for nearly four decades, achieved this major success through the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and the determined, strategic, and sustained efforts of the state's Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister, Mr. Vijay Sharma. The indomitable courage of the Indian Army, police, and all armed forces, the conscious participation of society, the willpower of the political leadership, the role of journalists, and, above all, the cooperation of the citizens of Bastar, all played a significant role in this campaign. It was only through everyone's concerted efforts that the end of armed Naxalism became possible, and now a new era of prosperity is beginning in Bastar.

Following Chhattisgarh's liberation from armed Naxalism, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Shri Vijay Sharma arrived in his constituency, Kawardha, for the first time on Sunday. The people of Kawardha organized a grand, historic civic reception for him at the local Mahamaya Chowk. Thousands of people attended with music, drums, and trumpets, creating a celebratory atmosphere throughout the city. Everyone was proud that their own son of the soil had made a significant contribution in eradicating fear and terror from the once Naxal-affected Kabirdham district, and now from across Chhattisgarh. Members
of the Brahmin community, Yadav community, Thakur community, Kurmi community, Sahu community, Satnami community, Nirmalkar community, Gupta community, Ahirwar community, Lodhi community, Patel community, Gond community, Kesarwani Gupta community, Sen community, Gandharva community, Goldsmith community, Jain community, and Vaishnav community welcomed the grand rally and congratulated him on achieving this seemingly impossible goal. The local District Press Club, Youth Club, Haritima Parivar, Private School Association, Nath Yogi Samaj, Fighter Club, District Cricket Association, Join Hands Group, Truck Owners Association, Patanjali Yoga Committee, Senior Citizens Committee, and Bharatiya Janata Party officials and workers also joined in to felicitate him. On this occasion, everyone honored Home Minister Shri Vijay Sharma by weighing him with laddus.

On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Sharma visited the Gayatri Temple and the Gurudwara to pray for the peace and prosperity of the state and joined the people at Bharat Mata Chowk to pay tribute to the immortal soldiers martyred in the Naxal operation. He said, "I am overwhelmed by the love of all of you. I did not know that you all understand the Naxal problem so seriously. It is truly a very sensitive subject, and the pain of those who have suffered from it cannot be described in words. Maoism is an imported ideology whose sole aim has been to establish power through the barrel of the gun. Whereas India's democracy has been strong since ancient times, a reflection of which is still visible in Bastar society today."
Referring to the horrors of Naxal violence, he said that innocent people were lured into handing over guns. Gunpowder was laid in schools, on roads, and near ponds. Education ambassadors, security personnel, health workers, government employees, and even innocent villagers were brutally murdered. Hundreds of people were maimed in these explosions. Who will protect their human rights? When such victims from Bastar met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi, they pledged to make Chhattisgarh Naxal-free by March 31, 2026. When the Home Minister makes a pledge, it is accomplished within the stipulated time.
He said that this success is not the work of any one person; it is the courage of the soldiers of the army, police, and all security forces, the cooperation of society, the willpower of the political leadership, the contribution of our journalists, and most of all, the citizens of Bastar. It was only through the collective efforts of everyone that this was possible. This victory is a victory of public participation, the courage of the security forces, and the faith of the people of Bastar.

He said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, the government welcomed those who surrendered their weapons with a red carpet and made proper arrangements for their rehabilitation. We even used video calls as a medium for communication. He further said that today, people in the villages of Bastar are laughing openly in their courtyards. There is no fear now; instead, there is talk of development. Village fairs and markets have regained their vibrancy; this change is our greatest achievement. Referring to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, many major decisions pending in the country for decades, such as the construction of the Ram Temple and the abolition of Article 370, were completed within the stipulated time. In the same series, the solution to the Naxalite problem has also become possible. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of Kawardha for this grand honor.

Raipur. Governor Ramen Deka today presented an ambulance to the temple trust at the Shri Jagannath Temple in Gayatri Nagar, Raipur. He handed over the keys to the ambulance, costing ₹680,000 from his voluntary contribution, and flagged off the vehicle. This vehicle will be used by the Shri Jagannath Temple Trust. MLA Shri Purandar Mishra and trust officials were present on the occasion.

Raipur. The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday launched various programmes to mark its 47th foundation day. As part of these programmes, which were organised from April 6 to 12, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai hoisted the flag at the BJP State Office (Kushabhau Thakre Complex) on the BJP's foundation day. During this, Chief Minister Shri Sai paid homage to the statues of the founding fathers of the BJP and offered them floral tributes.

Chief Minister Shri Sai, while extending his best wishes, said that the BJP was founded on April 6, 1980. The Bharatiya Janata Party is a political party based on principles and ideals. It is not a party of any particular family, caste, or class. The BJP is the unifying force that unites its workers. India's cultural values, our loyalties, and the resolve to establish India at the pinnacle of glory, along with the confidence that through our own efforts, we will achieve this goal. Shri Sai stated that the BJP is the world's largest political party, made possible by the continuous hard work of its workers and the sacrifices of our forefathers. Describing party workers as divine, Shri Sai said that it is because of their dedication and leadership that the party has become the country's largest political force today, and Chhattisgarh is steadily progressing towards development.

Chief Minister Sai said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our country is continuously reaching new heights of progress and development. The BJP's double-engine government in Chhattisgarh will accelerate the pace of development along with the end of Naxalism. The beginning of a developed Chhattisgarh has already begun. "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas" is the core mantra of the Bharatiya Janata Party, to which the party remains committed. Sai said that the BJP's foundation day is not only a day to remember the party's glorious history, but also a day of pledge to rededicate to national service. On this day, BJP workers are engaged in serving the common people by organizing programs of service and dedication across the country.

On this occasion, State General Secretary Akhilesh Soni, Dr. Naveen Markandey, Ranjana Sahu, Cabinet Minister Tankaram Verma, Shyambihari Jaiswal, Rajya Sabha MP Mrs. Laxmi Verma, MLA Motilal Sahu, Chhattisgarh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board President Rampratap Singh, State Office Minister Ashok Bajaj, Kisan Morcha State President Alok Singh Thakur, Minority Morcha State President Makhmoor Khan, Raipur Rural District Incharge Surendra Patni, Raipur City District President Ramesh Singh Thakur, Minority Commission President Amarjeet Singh Chhabra and a large number of BJP officials and workers were present.

00 Public Works Department approved Rs 448 crore
00 Three bypasses to be built in Raigarh district, two each in Dhamtari and Balodabazar
Raipur. To reduce the traffic pressure on the main roads and to ensure fast and well-organized traffic, the Public Works Department has approved a total amount of more than Rs 448 crore 13 lakh for nine bypass roads in the recently concluded financial year 2025-26. Keeping in view the demands and needs of the local people, Deputy Chief Minister and Public Works Minister Shri Arun Saw had given instructions to approve the funds for these bypass roads on priority.

The Public Works Department has approved ₹152.17 billion for the Tamnar bypass road in Raigarh district. This amount will be used to construct a 6-kilometer bypass road. The department has also approved ₹70.47 billion for the ring road (bypass road) in Raigarh city. ₹7.22 billion has also been approved for the widening and strengthening of the 2-kilometer stretch from Kabir Chowk to Dabhra Road, Bypass No. 3 in Kharsia.

The department has approved ₹14.94 crore for the 4-km Bhakhara bypass in Dhamtari district and ₹7.97 crore for the 1.50-km Nari bypass. In Balodabazar, ₹88.68 crore has been approved for the 15-km-long Balodabazar bypass via Latuwa and Pangaon, and ₹20.99 crore for the 7-km-long Risda bypass.

The Public Works Department has also approved Rs 82.8 crore for the 13.40 km Koni-Mopka four-lane bypass road in Bilaspur and Rs 2.8 crore for the 1.20 km concreted Chirha bypass road in Bemetara district.
Deputy Chief Minister and Public Works Minister Arun Saw said that the state government is fully committed to providing smooth, fast, and safe traffic in both urban and rural areas. Bypass roads, bridges, and overbridges are being constructed on priority to reduce traffic congestion. This will make traffic more smooth, fast, and organized. We are continuously developing modern and strong road infrastructure for the overall development of the state.

Jagdalpur. A sudden earthquake struck the Bastar division last night, spreading panic among residents. People in Jagdalpur and several surrounding areas rushed out of their homes as soon as they felt the ground shake. However, it's a matter of relief that no casualties or major damage have been reported in this incident.

According to reports, the epicenter of the earthquake, which struck at around 11:31 pm, was in the Koraput region of Odisha. According to the National Center for Seismology, the quake measured 4.4 on the Richter scale and was approximately 5 kilometers deep. The tremor lasted only a few seconds, but the sudden shaking frightened people.

CCTV cameras installed in several homes and shops captured the vibrations during the incident. Fans and other objects can be clearly seen shaking in the footage. These videos are also rapidly going viral on social media.

As soon as the earthquake tremors were felt, people panicked and ran out of their homes into open spaces. People remained vigilant until late at night and returned to their homes only after the tremors subsided. The local administration also monitored the situation and kept teams on alert to deal with any emergency.

Experts say that the Bastar region is considered relatively safe from earthquakes, but such incidents could signal a shift in geological activity. Therefore, there is a need to remain vigilant in the future.

The administration has appealed to the people not to panic during the earthquake, but to go to safe places and avoid rumours.