RaipurPresident Draupadi Murmu, who arrived to attend the inauguration ceremony of Bastar Pandum, today visited a grand exhibition showcasing the fragrance of Bastar's soil and primitive tribal traditions. During the event, the President visited various stalls and received detailed information about the arts and products displayed from local residents and artisans. President Murmu described Bastar Pandum as a powerful medium for preserving tribal heritage and promoting it to the world. She visited and appreciated the impressive exhibitions, one by one, featuring Dhokra handicrafts, terracotta, wood carving, sisal art, bamboo art, iron craft, tribal costumes and jewelry, tumba art, Bastar tribal paintings, local cuisine, and folk paintings. The exhibition, dedicated to tribal handicrafts at the Bastar Pandum venue, featured a special display of Dhokra art. This handicraft utilizes the lost wax casting technique. It is an ancient tribal metal art of India, vividly depicting nature, deities, and rural life. Each Dhokra piece is entirely handmade. Clay, wax, wire, brass, a hot kiln, and a cleaning machine are used in its creation. Clay figures depicting local terracotta art were also on display, vividly depicting folk traditions, rural life, and traditional beliefs. The exhibition showcased the vibrant expression of cultural and religious traditions through woodcarving. Teak, bija, siwan, and sal wood are used to create wooden sculptures, where artisans carve intricate shapes using traditional tools. The President also observed jute fabrics and other handicrafts made using sisal art. Another stall displayed traditional utility and decorative items made from bamboo. Artifacts made using wrought iron also particularly captivated the President. The stall displaying tribal jewelry drew the President's attention. This stall showcased tribal jewelry handcrafted from silver, pearls, shells, and various metals. These ornaments symbolize the identity, social traditions, and cultural heritage of tribal communities. Traditional musical instruments and decorative items made from dried gourd-like pods, known as Tumba art, were also on display. The tribal costumes and jewelry stall showcased traditional costumes and jewelry of the major tribes of the Bastar region—Dandami Madia, Abujhmadia, Muria, Bhatra, and Halba—by young men and women. President Murmu also visited a live exhibition of tribal paintings at the Bastar Pandum site. This exhibition presented a vivid glimpse of tribal life, nature, and traditions through Bastar paintings. Bastar art depicts the forest, folk deities, andFestivals and daily life are depicted through simple colors and symbols. This painting is an important medium for preserving cultural heritage passed down through generations. The local cuisine stall displayed food items and beverages used in tribal daily life. Traditional dishes like Jondhri Laai Laddu, Jondhra, Mandia Paej, Amat, Chapra Chutney, Bhenda Chutney, Kulathi Dal, Paan Bobo, Tikhur, along with beverages like Landa and Sulfi were displayed. The exhibition of folk paintings related to folk life displayed photographs related to Bastar's culture and history, natural beauty, folk life and folk traditions, as well as literature related to Bastar's tribal society and folk culture. 

0 President calls for educating tribal girls
00 President arrives in Bastar for the division-level inauguration of Bastar Pandum

Raipur. President Smt. Draupadi Murmu reached Jagdalpur, the headquarters of Bastar division this morning, where she inaugurated the division level Bastar Pandum-2026. On this occasion, President Smt. Murmu said that the soul of Chhattisgarh resides in the culture of the tribals. She started her address with the chanting of Maa Danteshwari, the revered goddess of Bastar. The President said that Chhattisgarh is such a state in the country, where the government is organizing events like Bastar Pandum to preserve its culture, tribal traditions and ancient heritage. This event is a living reflection of the glorious culture of the tribals. 

A large number of tribal artists and a large crowd attended the inaugural ceremony, held at the historic Lalbag grounds in Jagdalpur. Addressing the gathering, the President stated that the Vishnudev government in the state is dedicatedly working for the tribal people of Chhattisgarh. Continuous efforts are being made to uplift the tribal people through various schemes. Through schemes like PM Janman, Pradhan Mantri Janjati Gaurav Utkarsh Abhiyan, and Niyyad Nella Nar, tribal communities are being integrated into the mainstream of development.

The President, while laying special emphasis on the education of tribal girls in the Bastar region, said that not only the government but also society and their parents must come forward to connect tribal girls with education. Praising Bastar's rich tribal culture and glorious traditions, he said that the roots of ancient traditions remain strong in Chhattisgarh. Bastar Pandum is an important platform for promoting the identity, pride, and rich traditions of the tribal community. The President informed that more than 54,000 tribal artists have registered for Bastar Pandum, which reflects their deep connection to their cultural roots.
He said that Maoists are abandoning the path of violence and joining the mainstream, and their faith in democracy is increasing. Schools closed for years are reopening, roads and bridges are being constructed in inaccessible forest areas, and villagers are becoming involved in development. He said that Bastar's beauty and culture have always been a center of attraction for people, but unfortunately, for four decades, the region was plagued by Maoism, causing immense hardships to its residents.

President Murmu stated that as a result of the Indian government's decisive action against Maoist terrorism, the atmosphere of fear, insecurity, and distrust that had prevailed for years is now ending. Maoists are abandoning violence, and peace is returning to the lives of citizens. Thanks to the efforts of the state government and the cooperation of local people, a new dawn of development is dawning in Bastar. Electricity, roads, water, education, and health facilities are reaching every village. Schools that had been closed for years are now resuming classes for children. The President urged the gathering to preserve their culture and traditional heritage, emphasizing the need to showcase Bastar's tribal traditions on national and global platforms.

Bastar Pandum is a celebration of tribal folk culture - Governor Deka.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Governor Shri Ramen Deka said that Bastar Pandum is not an ordinary fair, but a celebration of Chhattisgarh's tribal folk culture. The folk dances, folk songs, traditional attire, jewelry, drums, and traditional cuisine together present a beautiful picture of Bastar to the world. He said that the Gaur dance, Parghoni dance, and dances like Dhurva, Muria, and Leja are symbols of Bastar's cultural consciousness. Such events are a powerful means of connecting our tribal culture and traditions with the new generation. The Governor said that Bastar is identified by its tribal culture and traditions. The Gond, Muria, Madia, Halba, Bhatra, and Parja communities have preserved their original traditions for generations. Harmony with water, forest, and land is Bastar's greatest strength. Through Bastar Pandum, artists will gain recognition, respect, and livelihood opportunities. Folk art will survive only when artists are prosperous.
Governor Deka said that Dhokra art is the pride of Chhattisgarh. Dhokra sculptures made in Bastar are popular both domestically and internationally. This art is a testament to the culture, hard work, and skill of tribal artisans. Bastar's culture embodies the folk traditions and diversity not only of Chhattisgarh but of the entire country.

Bastar is a land of rich culture and traditions - Chief Minister Sai
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, while paying homage to Goddess Danteshwari, said that President Smt. Draupadi Murmu's visit to Bastar Pandum is not merely a formal presence, but a blessing for Bastar, respect for the tribal community, and a sense of belonging for the mothers and sisters. He said that Bastar Pandum is not just an event, but a vibrant reflection of the tribal community's life, faith, dialect, dance, song, costume, food, and philosophy of life. Bastar is not just a land of forests, but a land of rich culture and traditions. The Chief Minister informed that this year, more than 54,000 artists registered for Bastar Pandum across 12 genres, including tribal dance, song, drama, costumes, jewelry, crafts, painting, cuisine, beverages, regional literature, and forest medicines, reflecting the vibrancy and richness of Bastar's culture.
Now a new Bastar - trust in place of fear, development in place of violence
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that there was a time when Bastar was known for Naxalism and violence, but today trust has replaced fear and development has replaced violence. Due to the determination of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah ji, the target of complete eradication of Naxalism has been set by March 31, 2026. He said that where once the sound of bullets echoed, today school bells ring. Where the tricolor could never be hoisted, today the national anthem can be heard. On Republic Day, the tricolor was hoisted for the first time in the most sensitive villages of Bastar division, which is a victory of democracy and the Constitution.

The Chief Minister stated that the Niyada Nella Nar, Prime Minister Janman, and Dharti Aaba Abhiyans
are milestones in development in tribal areas. These schemes have brought roads, electricity, water, education, health, and communication facilities to remote areas. With the new rehabilitation policy, those who once faced the gun are now returning to mainstream society with dignity. Villages like Chilkapalli, Temenar, and Handawada have received electricity after years; this is not just light, but hope and a future.
Making tribal communities self-reliant and globally recognized is our priority.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Bastar is also known for its forest produce. Tendu leaf collection rates have been increased, the Charan-Paduka scheme has been relaunched, and forest produce is being provided with fair prices and markets through Van Dhan Kendras. He informed that Dhudmaras village in Bastar has been listed among the best tourist villages in the world by the United Nations. Chitrakoot, Tirathgarh, Kanger Valley and Kotmasar Caves are not only tourist destinations but also the identity of Bastar.

Youth are now making their mark through sports and art, not weapons.
The Chief Minister said that events like the Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum prove that Bastar's youth are now making their mark through sports and art, not weapons. The participation of millions of youth and women is the strongest evidence of this change.
Calling to strengthen Bastar's new identity,
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai expressed his gratitude to President Smt. Draupadi Murmu and said that her visit to Bastar is historic. This will boost the confidence of artists, give wings to the dreams of daughters, and give Bastar new energy. He said that together we will make Bastar a center of peace, prosperity, and culture, something the entire country can be proud of. Tourism and Culture Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal delivered the welcome address on this occasion.

A short documentary based on Kondagaon Bastar Pandum was screened and artists from Kondagaon and Bastanar gave captivating performances. Union Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Jagdalpur MLA Shri Kirandev Singh, MP Shri Mahesh Kashyap, Mayor Shri Sanjay Pandey, Commissioner Shri Doman Singh, Inspector General of Police Shri Sundarraj P, Collector Shri Akash Chhikara, Superintendent of Police Shri Shalabh Sinha along with public representatives, singers, priests, Manjhi-Chalaki, Bastar Pandum artists and a large number of dignitaries were present in the programme.

00 President Mrs. Murmu praised and encouraged by clapping
Jagdalpur. Abujhmad, known for its remote forest region and long struggles in Chhattisgarh, displayed its talent on Saturday. In the inaugural ceremony of the division level Bastar Pandum held at Lalbag ground in Jagdalpur, the young players of Abujhmad Mallakhamb and Sports Academy mesmerized everyone by giving a wonderful performance of Mallakhamb in front of the country's highest constitutional officer, President Mrs. Draupadi Murmu.

This was the first time that children from the Abujhmad region had come together to perform a lively and daring Mallakhamb performance before the President. The spectators in the arena were amazed as these young artists demonstrated extraordinary balance, agility, and difficult feats on the wooden pole. This performance, imbued with passion, discipline, and excellent technique, filled the entire atmosphere with emotion. President Draupadi Murmu herself was deeply impressed by the children's talent. She not only praised their courage, skill, and discipline, but also wished them a bright future.

The foundation of this historic achievement was laid in the remote and rugged areas of Narayanpur district, where even today, basic facilities are limited. Emerging from remote forest areas like Kutur, Karpa, and Parpa, these children have proven that talent is neither dependent on resources nor geographical boundaries. The inspiration behind this arduous journey is Manoj Prasad, who, besides being the founder of the academy, also serves as a constable in the 16th Battalion. Under his able leadership, discipline, and constant guidance, these children have overcome their hardships and established their unique identity at the national and international level.
These young Mallakhamb athletes have already proven their talent on the global stage by winning the title of India's Got Talent and becoming runners-up in Romania's Got Talent. With over 40 to 50 television shows in various countries, including India, hundreds of stage performances across the country, and gold and silver medals in numerous competitions, this group is continuously achieving new heights of success.
Now, the group is ready to take its earthy flavor, folk culture, and unique skills across the seven seas in an even stronger form. The academy's next goal is to showcase the folk art of India and Abujhmad on prestigious global platforms like America's Got Talent and Britain's Got Talent. This historic performance in Jagdalpur is a matter of pride not only for the Abujhmad Mallakhamb & Sports Academy, but for the entire Bastar region and Chhattisgarh. This event presents a powerful picture of a changing Bastar, where new stars of talent are emerging from the land of struggle.

Raipur. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will arrive in Raipur this evening on a three-day visit to Chhattisgarh. Home Minister Amit Shah will be on a three-day visit to Chhattisgarh from February 7th to 9th.

Home Minister Amit Shah will arrive in Raipur on Saturday evening and will stay at a private hotel. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and several other prominent state leaders will welcome him at the airport.

Union Home Minister Shah will arrive at Raipur Airport at 4:40 pm and will depart for a private hotel. Home Minister Shah will rest at the private hotel and will participate in several important meetings from 11 am to 1 pm on Sunday. Home Minister Shah will hold a high-level meeting on Naxalism on February 8th until 5 pm. This meeting will discuss Naxalism with central and state officials.

After the meetings are over, Home Minister Amit Shah will attend a private programme from 5 pm to 6.10 pm and will then take night rest in a private hotel. After this, Home Minister Shah will leave for Maa Danteshwari Airport from Raipur on Monday by a special plane. From Danteshwari Airport, Home Minister Amit Shah will reach Bastar Pandum programme venue by car. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will attend the closing programme of Bastar Pandum from 12:05 pm to 4 pm. After this, Home Minister Shah will leave for Delhi from Jagdalpur at 4:20 pm.

Raipur, President Draupadi Murmu arrived at Jagdalpur, the headquarters of Chhattisgarh's Bastar division, on Saturday. At Maa Danteshwari Airport

The President was given a warm welcome by Governor Ramen Deka and Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai.

President Murmu has arrived to inaugurate the three-day division level 'Bastar Pandum 2026' to be held at the historic Lalbag ground in Jagdalpur headquarters.

Celebrating "Bastar Pandum 2026," a "festival of nature and tradition" organized by the Department of Culture and the Chhattisgarh government, the celebrations began today. This three-day event will be a historic moment not only for Bastar but for the entire state, where modernity will be combined with the fragrance of the soil. To enhance the grandeur and dignity of this event, the country's first citizen and President Draupadi Murmu has specially come to Bastar as the chief guest. The President's presence will give this cultural extravaganza a new identity on the national stage.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, and Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap greeted the President at the airport. Member of Parliament Mahesh Kashyap, Jagdalpur MLA Kiran Singh Deo, and Mayor Sanjay Pandey also greeted and welcomed the President. Commissioner Doman Singh, Inspector General of Police Sundarraj P., Collector Akash Chhikara, and Superintendent of Police Shalabh Sinha, along with other public representatives, also extended a warm welcome to the President.

Korba. Korba district has achieved remarkable success in the Kayakalp Ayush program run under the National Ayush Mission on standards based on cleanliness, infection control, building and premises maintenance, beautification and service quality for the year 2024. In the Ayush Center and Specialty Clinic category, Primary Health Center cum Ayush (Homeopathy) Center Rampur secured first place and Primary Health Center cum Ayush (Homeopathy) Center Sargbundia secured second place, bringing laurels to the district at the state level.

The award was presented in the presence of Chhattisgarh Government's Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Health Secretary Medical Education (AYUSH) Amit Kataria (IAS), AYUSH Director Santan Devi Jangde (IAS) and Joint Director Dr. Sunil Kumar Das. District AYUSH Officer Dr. Uday Sharma received this honour on behalf of Korba district. For the first place, Center Rampur was given a prize money of Rs. 75,000 and a citation, and for the second place, Center Sargbundia was given a prize money of Rs. 50,000 and a citation.

Dr. Uday Sharma stated that the AYUSH Department is continuously working to provide effective and quality AYUSH healthcare services to the general public, tribal communities, laborers, and citizens living in rural and remote areas. He expressed his gratitude to Korba District Collector Kunal Dudawat (IAS) for his guidance and support. He also congratulated all members of the AYUSH team for this achievement, stating that this success is the result of collective efforts.

Dr. Sharma extended special congratulations to Dr. Shyamacharan Sahu, Medical Officer of the Primary Health Center cum AYUSH (Homeopathy) Center, Rampur, and Dr. Amit Kumar Jatwar, Medical Officer of the Center, Sargbundia. He said that both centers have performed exceptionally well in terms of service quality, cleanliness, and a patient-friendly environment.

Giving information about other important works done by the AYUSH department in the district, it was told that 31 patients have been successfully treated so far through the modern OT and IPD operated at the AYUSH Polyclinic in Dingapur, Korba. Under the National Ayurveda Program, 7,483 children were given information about the AYUSH system through awareness camps organized in 103 schools.

Under the Vyomitra program, 76,889 elderly people were treated in the 2025-26 session, while under the Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Disorders program, 9,335 patients benefited from Panchakarma therapy in the year 2025-26. In the camps organized every Thursday at all AYUSH health centers in the district, 46,309 elderly patients were treated.

Treatment was provided to 1,967 patients at three district-level AYUSH health fairs and to 4,347 patients at ten block-level camps. 1,520 patients benefited from the three-day district-level AYUSH health fair organized on the occasion of Rajyotsav 2025. During the same period, 87,988 citizens benefited from yoga camps and yoga therapy.

Under the Women and Child Development Department's Mission Vatsalya, medical services are being provided by organizing AYUSH camps regularly on the first, second, and fourth Fridays at the Child Protection Home, Kohadia. Furthermore, AYUSH medical camps are also being organized from time to time at the Social Welfare Department's Sneh Sadan Old Age Home, Korba District Jail, Korba Sub-Jail, and Korba District Court.

The district's government Ayurvedic dispensary in Barpali has been NABH-certified, while 11 AYUSH dispensaries have been upgraded and prepared for NABH certification. Energy conservation and sustainable healthcare services have been promoted by installing solar panels in six Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in the district.

00 Prime Minister's Housing is not just a house, but the foundation of dignity, security, and self-reliance for poor families - Chief Minister Sai,
Raipur. Chhattisgarh has once again set a strong example of good governance, strong will, and result-oriented administration in the effective implementation of the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme. The historic decision to approve 1.8 million Prime Minister's Housing was taken in the very first Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai. As a result of the sustained, organized, and tireless efforts of all districts in the state to implement this decision, Chhattisgarh has set a new national record under the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme. In the current financial year 2025-26, Chhattisgarh has completed the construction of 500,000 Prime Minister's Housing, the highest in the country, in just 10 months and 4 days. This achievement is also special because, for the first time since the inception of the scheme, Chhattisgarh has set a record for the construction of 500,000 houses in a single financial year. By constructing an average of more than 1,600 houses per day, including the monsoon period, the state has set a new example of timely, quality, and targeted work execution.

00 National CEC Conference being held after a gap of more than 25 years
Raipur. The Election Commission of India will host a National Conference of State Election Commissioners on February 24, 2026. State Election Commissioners from all States/Union Territories of the country are expected to attend the Conference, which will be held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The National SEC Conference is being held after a gap of more than 25 years. The last such Conference was held in the year 1999. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Shri Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr. Vivek Joshi, will chair the conference and address the State Election Commissioners at the inaugural function. State Election Commissioners will participate and present their views along with their legal experts and technical experts. The Chief Electoral Officers of the Election Commission of India from all 36 States/Union Territories will also participate in the national conference. The primary objective of this conference is to synergize the functioning of the Election Commission and State Election Commissions with respect to electoral processes and logistics within their respective legal frameworks.

Participants will engage in discussion sessions on topics such as electoral laws on voter eligibility in States/Union Territories, technological interventions undertaken by the Election Commission of India, such as the recently launched ECNET digital platform, and EVMs. The Election Commission of India will also provide its expertise from its experience in preparing electoral rolls and conducting elections in accordance with the Constitution of India and the legal framework of the nation.

Raipur. As directed by Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh, action was taken against encroachments on drains and government land in Amlidih village. A joint team from the Revenue Department and the Municipal Corporation identified and removed the encroachments.
Led by SDM Mr. Nandkumar Choubey, the drain's altered flow was restored to its original state in the presence of Naib Tehsildar Ms. Jyoti Singh, Revenue Inspector Mr. Yash Varah, Patwari Mr. Rajaram Potai, Fundhar Patwari Mr. Dharmendra, and Zone Commissioner Mr. Vivekananda Dubey. The area was also secured by removing illegal encroachments on drains and government land. Additionally, government land, including grazing grounds and roads, was also identified and protected, preventing future encroachments. The administration clarified that encroachments on government land and natural water sources are unacceptable under any circumstances. Strict action will continue in such cases

Raipur. The Bharatiya Janata Party organized the "Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Training Maha Abhiyan-2026" at the BJP Central Headquarters in New Delhi on Thursday, with the aim of strengthening the organization's ideology and efficiency. BJP National President Nitin Naveen was the main participant in this program.
Mr. Naveen discussed in detail the essential role of training in the organizational structure. Mr. Naveen stated that this Maha Abhiyan is based on the principle of "organization building through individual development and nation building through organization building." Training is the medium that deeply connects workers with the party's ideology and methodology. Mr. Naveen stated that this Abhiyan will further energize and empower the organization to realize Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolve for a "developed India."Representing the state of Chhattisgarh in this mega campaign, prominent BJP officials including BJP State General Secretary Dr. Naveen Markandey, Chhattisgarh Housing Board Chairman Anurag Singhdev, State spokespersons Mrs. Shatabdi Pandey and Tekeshwar Jain and State coordinator of Training Department Dr. Awadhesh Jain participated.

00 Discussion on the effective implementation of the National Education Policy 2020
00 High-level one-day workshop held in Raipur
Raipur. The Higher Education Department organized a one-day workshop at the New Circuit House, Civil Lines, Raipur, to discuss the challenges and possibilities associated with the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020. At the workshop, Higher Education Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma stated that it is everyone's responsibility to ensure that the National Education Policy 2020 reaches every student, not just limited to paper. Vice-Chancellors, Registrars, college principals, and professors should personally study the National Education Policy. He emphasized the need for regular review by state-level committees, district cluster systems, task force meetings, and effective monitoring at the university level. He also stated that incorporating the Indian knowledge tradition into the curriculum is the need of the hour to connect students with their culture, heritage, and values. Local folk arts and crafts will be included in the curriculum. Online competitions will be organized among students to raise awareness about the Indian knowledge tradition. Through the National Education Policy 2020, education is being made employment-oriented, innovative, and globally competitive. Minister Shri Verma emphasized the need to organize such comprehensive and multi-day workshops in the future

The workshop was attended by special guests including Mr. Atul Kothari, President of the Bharatiya Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, Dr. Om Prakash Sharma, National Co-ordinator of the Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, Dr. Rajiv Prakash, Director of IIT Bhilai, educationists Mr. Dilip Kesharwani, Dr. Narayan Gavandkar, and professors from various colleges.
On this occasion, Higher Education Commissioner Dr. Santosh Kumar Dewangan highlighted the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020 and its effective implementation. Keynote speaker Mr. Atul Kothari explained important aspects of the National Education Policy 2020, such as the inclusion of Indian knowledge traditions in the curriculum, the credit system, multiple entry and exit systems, and the formation of task forces. Dr. Rajiv Prakash shared his experiences with the policy's practical implementation. Similarly, Mr. Om Prakash Sharma highlighted the implementation of the National Education Policy at the national and state levels. A question-and-answer session concluded the workshop, where experts addressed questions posed by participants.

Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, in a press conference today, informed about the state government's health department's achievements in the last two years and its action plan for the next three years. He said that the government's goal is not only to treat diseases, but also to ensure timely detection, prevention, and quality health care. The minister said that human resources are the backbone of health services. In the last two years, approximately 1639 posts of doctors, nurses, and various cadres have been filled under DHS and NHM, while the recruitment process for 2300 posts is ongoing. Under the National Health Mission, medical specialists and physicians are being recruited every month through online applications.

Raipur. The Chhattisgarh Real Estate Regulatory Authority has taken a tough stand in a significant case of serious violations of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, imposing a fine of ₹10 lakh. This penalty was imposed under Section 59 of the Act for violating Section 3 of the Act.
This order was passed in the case of Chhattisgarh RERA vs. Pancham Colony. In this case, the promoters of the Pancham Colony project located in village Pendra, District GPM, Mr. Pancham Keshari, Mr. Manish Keshari, Mrs. Rajni Keshari, and Mr. Nidish Keshari, deliberately submitted misleading information to obtain exemption from the Congestion Act. The investigation revealed that the project was actually classified as a residential (housing) project, but the promoters falsely presented it as a plotted project. In a previous case, the promoters obtained exemption from RERA registration by submitting a completion certificate issued by the competent authority in 2016.
However, during the hearing of the case filed with the Authority based on the complaint submitted by the allottee, it was established that the promoters had obtained proper building permits from the competent authority and constructed and sold residential units in the same development area. Thus, the promoters misled the Authority and obtained undue benefits by submitting false statements.
CG RERA clearly stated in its order that obtaining exemptions from the Act by providing false information is not only a violation of the law but also a serious betrayal of consumer trust. The Authority also clarified that transparency, disclosure of true information, and compliance with the law are essential in the real estate sector. Strict legal action will be taken against any attempt to circumvent the Act, ensuring the full protection of homebuyers' rights.

Jagdalpur. The Chhattisgarh government has taken a strict and important decision to maintain financial discipline and prevent the rush to spend the budget at the end of the financial year, i.e., March. According to new directives issued by the Finance Department, a complete ban has been imposed on the purchase of any new material or the issuance of purchase orders from the 2025-26 budget provisions after February 15, 2026. The primary objective of this order is to maintain the state's financial situation.
The government has taken this step because it has often been observed that in the final months of the financial year, various departments hastily purchase materials that are not immediately needed, simply to prevent budgetary expenditure. This trend leads to unnecessary blockage of government funds, which the Finance Department has deemed inappropriate for the government's interests. Under the new rules, departments are not only prohibited from placing new orders after February 15th, but are also mandated to ensure that all orders placed before February 15th are paid by March 15th, 2026. However, keeping in mind public interest and essential services, the government has exempted certain critical items from this restriction. Purchases of basic necessities such as food, clothing, and medicines for prisons, government hospitals, hostels, and ashrams will continue uninterrupted. Similarly, there will be no restrictions on the supply of nutritional food to children in Anganwadi centers and their transportation. Exemptions have also been granted for central government schemes, foreign-aided projects, and NABARD and SIDBI-funded works. Furthermore, construction agencies such as the Public Works Department and Forest Department will be permitted to purchase materials for the next one month for ongoing projects. Petrol, diesel, vehicle repairs, and small contingencies up to ₹5,000 will also be exempted.
Taking strict administrative measures, the department has clarified that the financial powers granted to officials for purchases after February 15th will be suspended by this order, and if a purchase is absolutely necessary in any special circumstances, special permission will be required from the Finance Department. This restriction will not apply to the Legislative Assembly Secretariat, Raj Bhavan, Chief Minister's residence and Secretariat, the High Court, and subordinate courts.

Manendragarh-Bharatpur-Chirmiri. Mrs. Sukhmanti Baiga, a resident of Ramgarh Gram Panchayat in the district, has today become a powerful symbol of women's empowerment, self-reliance, and self-employment. Her life has undergone remarkable transformation since joining the Chhattisgarh State Rural Livelihood Mission (Bihan). Previously, her family's income was limited and she faced financial difficulties. Today, through her hard work and the support provided by the scheme, she is earning a respectable livelihood.
The National Rural Livelihood Mission (Bihan) is being implemented by the central government with the aim of empowering rural poor families, especially women, to become self-reliant. Women have developed leadership skills, self-confidence, and the ability to implement government programs at the grassroots level. Women have become empowered and are now leaders. The Bihan scheme plays a major role in the success of these women, as joining this scheme has given them so much courage.
Sukhmanti Baiga is an active member of the Changmata Self-Help Group. In December 2020, she received a loan of ₹50,000 through bank linkage. With this amount, she started a small grocery shop in her village. In the early days, she faced challenges such as limited resources and lack of experience. However, with the training provided by the Bihan Yojana, the collective strength of the group, and her own self-confidence, she gradually strengthened her business.
Today, her grocery shop generates a regular income of approximately ₹4,000 to ₹7,000 per month. This income allows her to meet her family's daily needs, focus on her children's education, and save for the future. Along with becoming financially strong, her self-confidence has also increased, and she is playing an active role in social activities. Sukhmanti Baiga is now inspiring other women in her village to join self-help groups and become self-reliant. Her success story proves that with the right guidance, training, and opportunities, rural women can become self-reliant, bringing positive change to society and becoming a powerful example of women's empowerment.

Raipur. Chhattisgarh Forest and Cooperation Minister Kedar Kashyap announced that President Draupadi Murmu will be arriving in Bastar on February 7th for the inaugural ceremony of the Bastar Pandum 2026 program. Mr. Kashyap stated that the rich tribal culture of Bastar, Chhattisgarh, is poised to once again make its mark on the world stage. Residents of the region are excited about the upcoming division-level Bastar Pandum 2026, scheduled to be held from February 7th to 9th. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will attend the closing ceremony.
Kashyap stated that Bastar Pandum showcases tribal heritage through 12 traditional forms (dance, music, and crafts). Organized in three phases at the district, district, and division levels, the 12 major forms include Bastar tribal dance, song, drama, crafts, painting, traditional cuisine, and herbal medicine. Mr. Kashyap stated that this event vividly showcases the spirit and community life of Bastar. The Bastar Pandum aims to provide a larger platform for local folk culture. Bastar Pandum sends a clear message that Bastar's culture is still alive and proud. This event is a milestone in the preservation of tribal cultural heritage. Mr. Kashyap stated that Bastar's tribal art, culture, and traditions have gained global recognition. The spontaneous participation of people in Bastar Pandum is a clear indication that Bastar's youth are now ready to emerge from the dark tunnels of Naxalite terror and shape their future in the light of a new sunrise in a fearless environment of development, peace, and security.
Kashyap explained that while in 2025, 15,596 participants registered their attendance in the block-level competitions, this year the number has more than tripled to 54,745 across all seven districts. The increase in the number of participants clearly demonstrates the enthusiasm of the people of Bastar to preserve their roots, traditions, and folk arts. Dantewada district recorded the highest participation in the entire division with 24,267 registrations, followed by thousands of participants from districts like Kanker, Bijapur, and Sukma. Eighty-four teams and their 705 selected artists, who have won the rigorous district-level competition, will showcase their artistic talents. Mr. Kashyap stated that during these three days, the atmosphere of Bastar will be filled with the rhythms of tribal dances, the echoes of traditional songs, local cuisine, beverages, and theatrical performances. In this event, 192 artists will showcase their skills in tribal dance and 134 in other forms including tribal drama. On one hand, 65 artists will play the tunes of traditional instruments, while on the other hand, 56 participants will fill the atmosphere with the aroma of delicious tribal cuisine.
He said that another beautiful aspect of this event is the increasing participation of women. Among the 705 participants who reached the divisional level, there is a striking balance between the number of female and male artists. These include 340 women and 365 men. Mr. Kashyap said that this participation shows that women here are walking shoulder to shoulder with men in promoting and preserving Bastar's culture. Overall, Bastar Pandum 2026 is poised to become an unforgettable event with its grandeur and public participation.