Raipur/Raigarh.During his visit to Raigarh today, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai visited the historic Lord Jagannath Temple in Rajapara and performed puja with due rituals. Bowing at the feet of Lord Jagannath, the Chief Minister prayed for happiness, prosperity, peace, and well-being for all the people of the state.
उत्कल दिवस के अवसर पर पहुँचे रायगढ़
Chief Minister Shri Sai was in Raigarh to attend the "Utkal Day and Annual Festival of Love" conference organized by the Utkal Cultural Service Committee as the chief guest. During this program, he visited this magnificent temple built by the Utkal community and received its blessings.
dignified presence
Jharsuguda MLA Tankadhar Tripathi, MLA Purandar Mishra, and Raigarh Mayor Jivardhan Chauhan accompanied the Chief Minister on this religious and cultural occasion. Local public representatives, dignitaries, and prominent figures from the Utkal community extended a warm welcome to the Chief Minister at the temple complex. The Chief Minister praised the community's cultural heritage and conveyed a message of strengthening mutual brotherhood and affection.
Raipur.The thrilling men's hockey final of the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 concluded today at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur. In a closely contested contest, Odisha proved its superiority, defeating Jharkhand 4-1 to win the gold medal.
The thrill of the match: upsets and comebacks
The match got off to a surprising start. Jharkhand displayed tremendous aggression in the first quarter, scoring a goal in the opening minutes of the match to take a 1-0 lead. Following this initial setback, Odisha changed its strategy. In the second quarter, Odisha's players displayed excellent coordination, scoring two back-to-back goals, ensuring a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Odisha's well-planned strategy
The third quarter also saw a close contest between the two teams. Jharkhand created several chances to equalize, but Odisha's strong defense prevented them from succeeding. Meanwhile, Odisha scored another field goal to make the score 3-1. Jharkhand's players appeared under pressure in the final and fourth quarters, and Odisha capitalized on this by scoring their fourth goal to seal the victory.
Winners and runners-up
Odisha's precise passing and excellent finishing made them champions. With this impressive victory, Odisha won the gold medal, while runner-up Jharkhand settled for the silver. Sports fans praised the fighting spirit of both teams.
Raipur:There was a stir in the administrative corridors of Chhattisgarh when a case of an attempt to defraud big hospitals using the name of the state's Health Secretary Amit Kataria came to light.
The cunning fraudster, claiming to be close to the Secretary, was threatening hospital operators and demanding large sums of money from them. Seeing the situation becoming serious, the Health Secretary sent a written complaint to the Raipur Police Commissioner and directed him to register an FIR.
Scam method: Extortion under the guise of “complaint suppression”
The investigation revealed that the accused, who identified himself as "Ajay Agarwal," would directly call the operators of private hospitals and say, "A serious complaint has been filed against your hospital at the Ministry." He would then threaten them with action and demand money in exchange for suppressing the complaint file.
He used to win trust by calling hospital operators to the ministry.
The conman's method was extremely cunning. He didn't just talk on the phone, but instead summoned doctors and hospital administrators to the Ministry (Mahanadi Bhavan). When the administrators arrived, he would stop them at the gate and deceive them by saying, "Sir, he's busy in a meeting right now. Please wait outside." He used this tactic to demonstrate his direct contact and influence within the Ministry.
Amit Kataria wrote a letter to the Police Commissioner
Health Secretary Amit Kataria has considered this matter extremely serious. He has written to Raipur Police Commissioner Sanjeev Shukla, clarifying that no one named "Ajay Agarwal" in the Secretariat or the Health Department is authorized to engage in such activities. He has demanded that the police immediately identify and arrest the accused and take strict legal action. The Secretary stated that this is a well-planned conspiracy to tarnish the department's image and his personal image.
Health department issued alert
Following this incident, the Health Department has issued an alert to all private hospitals and health institutions in the state. The department has clarified that any official investigation or complaint process follows established regulations. Instructions have been given to immediately inform the local police or senior department officials of any suspicious calls or demands for money.
00 Khelo India Tribal Games cultural confluence in Mainpat, guests praised Chhattisgarh's natural beauty and hospitality Raipur.The arrangements made by the Chhattisgarh Government and Chhattisgarh Tourism Board during the Khelo India Tribal Games are receiving national acclaim. Sports officials and coaches from various states visited the major tourist destinations in Mainpat, Surguja district, and experienced the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Guests visited Mainpat's famous Tibetan Monastery, the mysterious Ulta Pani, and the unique natural site Jaljali. The uniqueness and natural charm of these sites captivated everyone. Officials and coaches stated that Mainpat is a unique tourist destination not only for Chhattisgarh but for the entire country, offering a wonderful confluence of nature and tranquility.
During the visit, all guests enjoyed lunch at the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board's Saila Resort. The traditional Chhattisgarhi dishes served here, such as cheela, fara, thethri-khurmi, and other dishes rich in local flavors, were heartily appreciated by the guests. Officials said that Chhattisgarhi cuisine is as simple as it is delicious and nutritious. Guests particularly praised the easygoing, simple, and cordial behavior of the local residents of Mainpat. They said that the hospitality here made them feel at home, further strengthening the identity of Chhattisgarh.
Thanks to the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, athletes, officials, and coaches participating in the Khelo India Tribal Games are being taken on a tour of the state's major tourist destinations. This initiative is introducing them to Chhattisgarh's rich culture, traditions, and cuisine, establishing a positive image of the state nationally. This integrated model of sports and tourism has shown Chhattisgarh a new direction, where sporting events are not limited to competitions but are also becoming a medium for cultural exchange. This is not only promoting tourism in the state but also creating a positive and prosperous identity for Chhattisgarh across the country. This effort by the Chhattisgarh government is successfully securing the state a strong position on the national tourism map.
Raipur.The government had decided to sell liquor in plastic bottles instead of glass bottles at all government liquor stores in the state starting April 1st. However, the deadline has now been extended by three months. Liquor companies have been given time to clear their glass bottle stocks. The Excise Department has stated that to ensure the availability of liquor in plastic bottles, companies have been given three months to clear their glass bottle stocks. However, those involved in the bottling business are protesting the government's decision. On the other hand, the government maintains that the decision aims to make liquor packaging and transportation safer and more convenient. This step has been taken to prevent losses and accidents caused by broken glass bottles, as well as to improve the supply chain.Under the new policy, plastic bottles have been supplied to hundreds of shops across the state. Bottle-making units have already been instructed to adapt their production to the new packaging system.
00 The 28-year-old wrestler continues to practice wrestling while delivering milk door-to-door to support his family. 00 He travels 20 km to practice in a mud arena and 40 km to Jammu for mat training.Raipur.When Hamam Hussain of Jammu and Kashmir isn't practicing wrestling, he works door-to-door delivering milk with his elder brother. For 28-year-old Hamam, a resident of Zorawar village in Jammu, life and sports have always gone hand in hand. After his father's death five years ago, the responsibility of the family fell on his and his elder brother's shoulders. Together, they sold milk to support the household, while Hamam kept his wrestling dream alive. This struggle finally paid off at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, where Hamam won the gold medal in the men's 79 kg freestyle category, defeating Mohit Kumar of Himachal Pradesh. This is the first national-level gold medal in his 14-year wrestling career."My elder brother was also a wrestler and had played at the state level. After my father's death, all the responsibility fell on me. My brother had to give up wrestling and started selling milk. I also used to go with him to deliver milk because it was important to run the family. But my brother always encouraged me to continue wrestling and would take me to wrestling matches," Hamam told SAI Media. Hamam said that the buffaloes left behind by his father became the family's source of livelihood. Hamam, a father of one child, said, "My brother ran the household by selling milk and I used to help him. But when I stepped into the mud arena, I fell in love with this sport."
Despite limited resources, Hamam never lost hope. He practices in a mud arena about 20 kilometers from his village and travels about 40 kilometers to Jammu to train on the mat, all while juggling his work responsibilities. He said, "The SAI center is in Jammu, and since we live in a low-lying area, it's difficult to go there regularly. We usually only go there during competitions; otherwise, we practice in the village arena." Hamam further added, "I don't have a personal coach. Senior wrestlers guide us in the arena. Coaches are present when we practice on the mat. Villages don't have the same facilities as cities. If better facilities are available, wrestlers from our region can win more medals at the national and international levels." For Hamam, this gold medal is not just a victory, but a symbol of years of struggle and dedication. He concluded, "It feels great to be here. The facilities here are excellent." We come from a backward area where there isn't much support for wrestling, so we have to travel far and wide. This is the first time such a competition has been held for us. If more such events are held, we can win more medals.
Raipur.Under the "More Village, More Water" campaign, an unprecedented achievement has been achieved in Baloda Bazar-Bhatapara districts, transforming water conservation into a mass movement. A new record has been set by completing the construction of 31,066 rainwater harvesting structures in just 15 days in houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). This achievement has become an example of widespread public awareness, community participation, and voluntary labor.
Public participation becomes a mass movement - Under the guidance of Collector Kuldeep Sharma and the leadership of District Panchayat CEO Ms. Divya Agarwal, the More Village, More Water Campaign 2.0 was launched in the district on March 13, 2026. A date-wise schedule has been set for the successful implementation of this campaign. This achievement reflects the district's collective commitment to water conservation, public participation, and strong leadership. Villagers volunteered to contribute, transforming the campaign into a mass movement. The average size of each PM Awas is approximately 300 square feet. The rainwater harvesting structures built within these structures will play a crucial role in conserving rainwater. It is estimated that thousands of liters of water will be collected through these structures each rainy season, leading to increased groundwater levels, reduced water scarcity, and sustainable water management. Securing the future as well as the present - This initiative will not only meet current water needs but also take a concrete step towards ensuring water security for the future. The More Village, More Water campaign has proven that when the administration and the public come together, even the impossible becomes possible. The administration's appeal: The district administration has appealed to all citizens to join this mass movement, build as many water conservation structures as possible in their homes and villages, and play an active role in achieving the goal of "water conservation in every home."
Raipur.4 crore 32 lakh 87 thousand rupees have been approved by the Government of Chhattisgarh Water Resources Department for the renovation and upgradation of all gates, painting of gates, rubber seal and installation of high mast in Bikashkhand-Razim Anicut of Gariaband district. Administrative approval has been given to the Chief Engineer, Mahanadi Project Water Resources Department, Raipur to complete the works of the scheme.
Raipur.At Shri Jaitu Saav Math in Purani Basti, Lord Ram's birth anniversary, Ram Navami, is being celebrated on different days with various themes, and devotees are attending in large numbers. Speaking on behalf of the temple committee, Shri Ajay Tiwari said that the tradition, which has been in place for years, continues to be celebrated in the same way.
On Wednesday, the Chhatti festival of Shri Ramchandra ji was celebrated with great pomp in which specially Chhawariladdu, Kankepaani, Balbhog were offered to Thakur ji. Peacock feather has special significance in the service of Ramchandra ji. This year on the occasion of Ramnavami festival, the sanctum sanctorum has been decorated with peacock feathers and devotees had come from far and wide to have a glimpse of the wonderful image with golden decoration. Mahant Ramsundar Das performed the auspicious Maha Aarti of Thakur ji, in the special Chhathi, Ramchandra ji was offered Kadhi Bhaat, Malpua, a large number of visitors had gathered in the temple, after the Aarti, food and Malpua Prasadi were distributed which was availed by hundreds of people.
Jagdalpur. Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, visited the Growth Center and Pragati Mahila Self-Help Group stalls under the Chhattisgarhkala brand in Turenar on Wednesday. During the visit, she observed local products, women's entrepreneurship, and the work being done by self-help groups. Smt. Raksha Khadse stated that significant work is being done in Chhattisgarh to empower women. Through self-help groups, women are not only becoming economically empowered but also pioneering social change.
She added that various schemes operating in the state, such as the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, are providing economic support to women. Additionally, initiatives such as the sale of products through e-commerce platforms, the production of ready-to-eat food products, and the Lakhpati Didi Yojana are opening up new opportunities for women. Khadse specifically noted that ready-to-eat food products manufactured by self-help groups are playing a vital role in nutritional security, employment generation, and strengthening the rural economy. He described these efforts as a strong step towards self-reliant India under the leadership of women power.
Jagdalpur. After surrendering, these young people are undergoing special training, teaching them communication skills and the art of handling information systems. Upon completion of the training, each is provided with a welcome kit by the Home Department. The Home Department has utilized technology in this special campaign.
Each surrendered individual is not only being integrated into the mainstream but also becoming part of a digital network. The department now maintains a record containing the names, villages, and mobile numbers of all these former Naxalites. With just one click, it becomes clear which individual is active in which area. Now, news of any suspicious movement or the presence of Naxalites within the village reaches the district headquarters and security camps within minutes. This initiative by the Home Department is also having a significant psychological impact. When villagers see a young man from their own community helping the government and living a better life, their fears diminish. This network is not only strategically important but will also serve as a bridge in reaching government schemes to the last person in the future.
Raipur-Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Hatkeshwar Jayanti.
In his message, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Hatkeshwar Jayanti is a festival symbolizing faith, devotion, and spiritual energy, connecting us to religion, culture, and folk traditions. This day instills harmony, unity, and positive energy in society.
Praying to Lord Hatkeshwar for happiness, prosperity and well-being of the people of the state, he said that this festival should bring peace and progress in everyone's life.
Raipur - Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today inaugurated the newly constructed Tehsil office in Dharsiwa, Raipur district. This initiative is an important step towards making administrative services closer to the public, accessible, and effective.
Addressing the program, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the fundamental objective of good governance is to ensure that citizens receive the services they need in a timely, simple, and transparent manner. This new tehsil office in Dharsiwa fulfills this commitment. He said that with the opening of this building, citizens of the area will now enjoy greater convenience and speed in their revenue-related work.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the state government is continuously working to strengthen the administrative structure and improve the quality of services in both rural and urban areas. He stated that our endeavor is to ensure that every citizen has access to the best administrative services without unnecessary hassle.
The newly constructed tehsil office includes essential units such as the Naib Nazir's room, record room, Mal Jamar, copy branch, Kanungo room, Bhuiyan and Land Records branch, as well as a Public Service Center and Aadhaar Center. Furthermore, other basic amenities, including clean drinking water, have been ensured for the convenience of citizens.
It is noteworthy that this modern tehsil office has been constructed at a cost of Rs 66.20 lakh, which will strengthen the administrative structure of the area and will prove helpful in better implementation of services.
On this occasion, MLA Shri Anuj Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Shri Mahadev Kavre, Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh, Municipal Corporation Commissioner Shri Vishwadeep, District Panchayat CEO Shri Kumar Bishwaranjan along with other public representatives and officials were present.
Abdul Fatah of Lakshadweep became the first long jumper to win gold by clearing 7 metres.
Chhattisgarh's Tilak Barset wins silver in men's 100m, women's football team reaches final
Karnataka continues to top the medal tally with 19 gold, 7 silver and 7 bronze.
Raipur-
Jharkhand's Shiv Kumar Soren and Prithvi Oraon on Tuesday became the fastest runners in the men's and women's categories respectively at the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 being held at the Sports Complex Ground in Jagdalpur. Meanwhile, host Chhattisgarh's Siddharth Nagesh won gold in shot put and silver in discus throw, while Tilak Barset won silver in the men's 100m.
Shiv Kumar and Prithvi led from start to finish in their respective 100-meter races to win gold medals for their state. Shiv Kumar clocked 10.58 seconds, while Barset took silver with a time of 10.87 seconds. Odisha's Atish Kindo (10.91 seconds) won the bronze.
In the women's 100m final, 16-year-old Prithvi clocked her personal best of 12.73 seconds to win the gold medal. Nagaland's Ruduolhounuo Belho (12.90 seconds) and Jharkhand's Putul Bakshi (13.03 seconds) took the silver and bronze medals respectively.
"I was confident of winning a medal because I performed well in the selection trials. Today I focused on giving my best and am happy that I set a personal best time," Prithvi said after the race.
Siddharth Nagesh started the day for hosts Chhattisgarh by winning the silver medal in the men's discus throw with a throw of 35.56m. Gujarat's Danish Makwana (44.83m) took the gold, while Odisha's Chandray Murmu (33.97m) won the bronze.
In the evening session, Siddharth went one step further to win the shot put gold with a throw of 13.52m. Danish Makwana (13.04m) took the silver.
Host Chhattisgarh advanced to the women's football final by defeating Arunachal Pradesh in a penalty shootout in the semifinals. They will face Jharkhand, which defeated Gujarat 9-0. Chhattisgarh now sits 10th in the medal tally with two gold, seven silver, and four bronze medals.
Karnataka continues to top the medal tally with 19 gold, 7 silver and 7 bronze, while Odisha is second with 13 gold, 8 silver and 15 bronze. Jharkhand added gold medals in the women's 4x100m and men's 77kg Greco-Roman events to jump to third place with 7 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze. Abhishek Munda won the gold in Ambikapur, defeating Arfan of Himachal Pradesh.
Dandakaranya is witnessing a return from violence to trust today: Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai
Raipur -Today, March 31, 2026, marks a historic and decisive day for the end of Left Wing Extremism in Chhattisgarh. Under the Poona Margem - Rehabilitation to Revitalization initiative in the Dandakaranya region, 25 Maoist cadres (including 12 women) have renounced the path of violence and returned to the mainstream. This event marks a clear and concrete achievement towards ending Naxalite terror. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai stated that today marks a historic turning point for Dandakaranya and the entire state of Chhattisgarh, as the ideology of violence and fear that has persisted for years has surrendered. He said this is a victory of trust, democracy, and people's power. The Chief Minister said that a total reward of ₹1.47 crore was announced on these 25 surrendered Maoist cadres. Their return to the mainstream is proof that the misguided people have now strengthened their faith in the democratic system and the government's rehabilitation policy. He said that as a result of the effective action of the security forces and the government's coordinated strategy, the Maoist network has been decisively weakened. In the same sequence, a major seizure of ₹14.06 crore along with 93 lethal weapons was also made, which clearly shows the weakening of the Naxalite network. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that this is not just a surrender, but a return of faith. Today, the Dandakaranya region is witnessing this historic moment of peace, stability and return to normal life. He said that this day of March 31, 2026 will be remembered in the history of Chhattisgarh as the date when decisive results were achieved towards the end of Naxalism and the state has stepped on the threshold of a new era.
Raipur-Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has paid his respectful homage to late Dau Dular Singh Mandaraji, the bearer of Chhattisgarh's rich folk art tradition and considered the father of 'Nacha', on his birth anniversary.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Dau Mandaraji not only revived the folk art of 'Nacha' but also made it a powerful medium of social awareness by making it accessible to the masses. He organized folk artists from villages and gave 'Nacha' a new identity and dignity. Through his efforts, this folk art form became not just a medium of entertainment but also an effective platform for social awareness and positive change.
He said that through his dedication and devotion, Dau Mandaraji kept Chhattisgarh's folk culture alive and worked throughout his life to preserve it. His contribution will always be remembered as the state's cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister said that the State Government confers 'Dau Dular Singh Mandaraji Samman' on artists who have made outstanding contributions in the field of folk art and craft, which is a true tribute to him.
He said that the personality and work of Dau Mandaraji even today inspires the new generation to connect with their roots and take folk culture forward.
Raipur-Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Hatkeshwar Jayanti.
In his message, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Hatkeshwar Jayanti is a festival symbolizing faith, devotion, and spiritual energy, connecting us to religion, culture, and folk traditions. This day instills harmony, unity, and positive energy in society.
Praying to Lord Hatkeshwar for happiness, prosperity and well-being of the people of the state, he said that this festival should bring peace and progress in everyone's life.
- A fully equipped building constructed at a cost of Rs. 66.20 lakh will bring speed and transparency in revenue services.
Raipur - Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today inaugurated the newly constructed Tehsil office in Dharsiwa, Raipur district. This initiative is an important step towards making administrative services closer to the public, accessible, and effective.
Addressing the program, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the fundamental objective of good governance is to ensure that citizens receive the services they need in a timely, simple, and transparent manner. This new tehsil office in Dharsiwa fulfills this commitment. He said that with the opening of this building, citizens of the area will now enjoy greater convenience and speed in their revenue-related work.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the state government is continuously working to strengthen the administrative structure and improve the quality of services in both rural and urban areas. He stated that our endeavor is to ensure that every citizen has access to the best administrative services without unnecessary hassle.
The newly constructed tehsil office includes essential units such as the Naib Nazir's room, record room, Mal Jamar, copy branch, Kanungo room, Bhuiyan and Land Records branch, as well as a Public Service Center and Aadhaar Center. Furthermore, other basic amenities, including clean drinking water, have been ensured for the convenience of citizens.
It is noteworthy that this modern tehsil office has been constructed at a cost of Rs 66.20 lakh, which will strengthen the administrative structure of the area and will prove helpful in better implementation of services.
On this occasion, MLA Shri Anuj Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Shri Mahadev Kavre, Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh, Municipal Corporation Commissioner Shri Vishwadeep, District Panchayat CEO Shri Kumar Bishwaranjan along with other public representatives and officials were present.