Raipur/Bhatapara. CG NEWS: It is our responsibility to adopt organic farming for the fertility of the land and a healthy generation, said Raipur Lok Sabha MP and senior BJP leader Brijmohan Agrawal, who gave the basic mantra of integration of traditional and scientific farming to the farmers by attending the district level oilseed fair cum organic farming workshop organized under 'National Edible Oil Mission - Oilseeds (NMEO-OS)' in Bhatapara on Thursday. He said that dependence only on paddy crop is not only reducing the fertility of our land, but is also creating a big crisis for the future.

Organic farming is essential for the fertility of the earth and a healthy generation.

Addressing the event, MP Brijmohan Agrawal said that since the Chhattisgarh government has been purchasing 21 quintals of paddy per acre from farmers and providing a support price of ₹3,100 per quintal, a situation has arisen where most farmers are limited to paddy cultivation. Everywhere, only paddy, paddy, paddy, and paddy are being cultivated. Production of other crops is almost stagnating.

We must consider whether rice cultivation alone will be sufficient in the future. A time may come when our land will run dry. Rice is a crop that requires the most water. There is no water shortage in Chhattisgarh today, but in the past, our villages used to have five or ten ponds. Today, those ponds are drying up, disappearing

Repeatedly cultivating the same crop also reduces the soil's fertility. To maximize yields, we are constantly using urea and phosphates, which is affecting soil quality. We must seriously consider the possibility that the land we leave behind for future generations—our children and grandchildren—will not become barren.

That's why it's said that crop rotation should be practiced. Growing different crops maintains the soil's fertility. In the past, people used to keep a separate supply of rice for their own consumption, but today, even this tradition has almost disappeared. We are only pursuing higher production and higher earnings.

Raipur: The Chhattisgarh government has taken a major step toward implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. The General Administration Department issued a notification on June 25, 2026, forming a five-member high-level committee. The committee's objective is to study the feasibility of implementing the UCC in the state and prepare a draft and submit it to the government.

Retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai has been appointed as the chairperson of the committee. Retired IAS officer Raibhan Singh, retired IPS officer M.K. Raut, senior advocate Mohan Pawar, and retired principal Jyoti Rani Singh have been included as members.

According to the notification, the committee will study the current legal system in the state and make recommendations for a Uniform Civil Code covering matters such as marriage, divorce, maintenance, inheritance, and adoption. It will also study the UCC model implemented in other states, seeking input from citizens, social organizations, legal experts, and other stakeholders.

Based on its recommendations, the committee will prepare a draft Uniform Civil Code and submit it to the state government, along with necessary legislative and administrative suggestions. With this decision, Chhattisgarh has joined the list of states where the formal process for implementing the UCC has begun.

Raipur. The Chhattisgarh government's Urban Administration and Development Department has issued orders appointing nominated councilors to various municipal corporations, municipal councils, and town panchayats across the state. According to the order issued from the Ministry, Mahanadi Bhawan, Nava Raipur Atal Nagar, these appointments will remain in effect until further orders.

According to the list released, 11 nominated councillors have been appointed in Raipur Municipal Corporation.

The department's order also released lists of nominated councilors for other municipal bodies in the state. This government decision is being considered an important step toward strengthening public participation and administrative coordination in local bodies.

See the complete list

Timely action ensured the benefits of the Disability Pension Scheme

Raipur, June 25, 2026/ Chief Minister Helpline 1076, operated under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, has emerged as an effective platform for quick resolution of problems faced by the people of the state. By promptly acting on complaints lodged through the helpline, eligible beneficiaries are being provided the benefits of government schemes.

In the same sequence, Mr. Yogesh Yadav, resident of Gram Panchayat Gharjiabathan under Pathalgaon development block of Jashpur district, had lodged a complaint in the Chief Minister Helpline 1076 regarding his 65 percent disabled daughter Chandni Yadav not getting the benefit of disability pension under the Social Security Pension Scheme.

Upon receiving the complaint, the District Panchayat, Pathalgaon, and the Chief Executive Officer's office took the matter seriously and initiated necessary action. The application and necessary documents were obtained through the Panchayat Secretary and the case was investigated. The investigation found Chandni Yadav eligible for the Disability Pension Scheme, after which the process of approving her pension was completed.

Chandni Yadav will now receive regular pension benefits under the Social Security Pension Scheme. The complaint was successfully resolved within the stipulated timeframe, and the case was settled.

Chandni's father, Mr. Yogesh Yadav, praised the Chief Minister's Helpline 1076, saying that this system is proving extremely useful and reliable for ordinary citizens. He expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai and the district administration for ensuring his daughter received timely justice and the benefits of the scheme.

Chief Minister's helpline 1076 is active 24 hours a day.

Citizens of the state can register their complaints and share suggestions and feedback through the Chief Minister's Helpline 1076. The helpline is also linked to the WhatsApp platform, allowing citizens to easily communicate their concerns to the government.

Approximately 8,000 officials from 42 state government departments are involved in this system, ensuring timely resolution of complaints in 1,195 categories. Each complaint is assigned a unique ID, allowing applicants to track their complaint status online.

If the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution, the case is automatically forwarded to higher authorities for re-examination and investigation. The Chief Minister's Helpline, 1076, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Staff are deployed in three shifts and are regularly monitored by a secretary-level officer and the Chief Minister's Secretariat.

Chief Minister Helpline 1076 has become a strong example of the sensitive, accountable and public welfare functioning of the government and is playing an important role in providing timely relief and benefits of schemes to the needy citizens.

Administration cracks down on illegal sand storage, seizes 135 cubic meters of sand in Gudlu

Over 83,000 rupees in fines and revenue collected, rule-breakers warned

Raipur, June 25, 2026/ In accordance with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai's clear instructions regarding good governance, accountability, and conservation of natural resources, the Jashpur district administration is continuously taking strict action against illegal mining activities. In this regard, the Mineral Department has taken major action after conducting a prompt investigation into complaints regarding illegal sand storage and sand smuggling.

During the investigation, 135 cubic meters of sand was found illegally stored in the village panchayat of Gudlu in the Bagicha development block on June 19, 2026. Upon receiving the complaint, a team from the Mineral Department arrived at the scene and took immediate action, seizing the illegally stored sand. A case was registered under Section 21 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

During the action, a fine of ₹40,780 was imposed in the case of illegal sand storage. Meanwhile, in four separate cases of illegal sand transportation, a sum of ₹42,736 was deposited in the mineral fund. Thus, a total of over ₹83,000 was collected in fines and revenue.

The Assistant Mining Officer stated that the campaign against illegal mining, transportation, and storage will continue in the district. Strict action will be taken against those violating the rules. The district administration's objective is to ensure the conservation of natural resources and prevent revenue loss to the government.

The administration has also appealed to the citizens to immediately inform the concerned authorities if they get any information about illegal mineral excavation, transportation or storage, so that effective control on such cases can be ensured by taking prompt action.

Raipur- Tourism and Culture Minister Mr. Rajesh Agrawal on Thursday inspected the Ramvanagaman tourist circuit and the world's oldest theatre Ramgarh in the development block Udaipur of Surguja district and took stock of the preparations for the festival. During this, he reached the venue and observed various arrangements and directed the concerned officials to complete all the preparations within the stipulated time limit. He said that this festival, which will be organised in the august presence of Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai, will be an important celebration of the cultural identity of the state, hence every arrangement of the event should be well organised, safe and attractive.

During the inspection, Minister Shri Agarwal closely observed the preparations for Sitabengra, Hathi Pol, helipad, main stage, parking area, pandal, seating arrangements, electricity supply, drinking water, sanitation, traffic management, and exhibitions and departmental stalls to be set up by various departments. He directed that all necessary arrangements be completed on time, especially in the Sitabengra and Hathi Pol areas, keeping in mind the convenience and safety of tourists.

Minister Shri Rajesh Agarwal took stock of the preparations

He urged officials to ensure adequate basic amenities to ensure no inconvenience to tourists and devotees attending the festival. He also urged officials to ensure the event is a success by establishing a framework for cultural programs, visitor movement, traffic control, security management, and better coordination between departments. He urged all departments to work in coordination to ensure the Ramgarh Festival is established as a grand and memorable event befitting the state's cultural prestige.

Minister Shri Agarwal said that the Ramgarh Festival is an opportunity to give a new identity to the state's rich cultural traditions, historical heritage, and archaeological significance. This event will not only give a new impetus to tourism, but will also encourage local art, culture, folk traditions, and new employment opportunities. He expressed confidence that this event will attract tourists from India and abroad to Ramgarh, establishing the Surguja region as a new center of tourism.

He further stated that the Ramgarh Festival is not merely a cultural event, but a powerful means of establishing a new identity for Chhattisgarh's glorious historical, cultural, and archaeological heritage at the national and international levels. Developing Ramgarh's world-renowned heritage sites, the Sitabengra and Jogimara caves, and the Ramvanagaman tourist circuit as major tourist destinations is a priority for the state government. Toward this end, all preparations for the two-day Ramgarh Festival, to be held on June 29th and 30th, are being completed in a timely and quality manner.

Collector Mr. Ajit Vasant also instructed all departmental officers to ensure timely discharge of their assigned responsibilities. During the inspection, Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Rajesh Agrawal, Chief Executive Officer of the District Panchayat Mr. Vinay Kumar Agrawal, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department Mr. Virendra Chaudhary, Sub-Divisional Officer Mr. Ramraj Singh, Chief Executive Officer of Udaipur District Panchayat Mr. Ved Prakash Gupta, along with officers and employees of various departments were present.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai gave instructions to the Chief Secretary

There will be a comprehensive inspection of fire safety, building safety and emergency arrangements across the state.

Public safety is the top priority, any kind of negligence will not be tolerated: Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, giving top priority to public safety in the state, has directed a comprehensive review and special audit of the security arrangements of multi-storey residential complexes, commercial establishments, coaching institutes, hotels and other public utility buildings. Taking seriously the fire accidents that have occurred in various parts of the country in recent times, the Chief Minister has said that it is necessary to learn lessons from such incidents and ensure strict adherence to safety standards.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that any matter related to the safety of citizens, students, and the general public is the government's top priority. He has given clear instructions to ensure strict action, as per the rules, against institutions and establishments that ignore safety standards.

Following the Chief Minister's instructions, Chief Secretary Mr. Vikas Sheel has issued instructions to all divisional commissioners, district collectors, municipal corporation commissioners, chief municipal officers, fire department officials, and related department officials to conduct a special inspection campaign. Under this campaign, security arrangements at multi-story residential buildings, coaching centers, tuition classes, hotels, lodges, malls, commercial complexes, and other public buildings will be thoroughly examined.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that ensuring the safety of students, women, senior citizens, and the general public is the government's responsibility. Therefore, it is imperative to ensure that all relevant institutions adhere to the prescribed safety standards.

During the inspection, essential safety standards, including the availability of fire extinguishers and fire safety equipment, valid fire NOCs, emergency exit routes, structural safety of the building, condition of electrical wiring and equipment, CCTV surveillance, first aid facilities, drinking water and sanitation, and other essential safety standards will be examined. The number of people in accordance with the building's capacity, parking arrangements, and preparations for evacuation and relief management in the event of a disaster will also be examined.

Chief Minister Shri Sai has directed that regarding the deficiencies found during the inspection, instructions should be given to the concerned institutions for necessary improvements and if serious irregularities are found, action should be taken as per rules.

Raipur, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today met Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah at Kartavya Bhavan in New Delhi, as part of efforts to develop Chhattisgarh into a national hub for Ayurvedic medicine, research, and higher education.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister held detailed discussions on the state’s development, public welfare, and various contemporary issues, while urging for the establishment of an All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma was also present at the meeting.

The Chief Minister informed the Home Minister that the All India Institutes of Ayurveda currently operating in New Delhi and Panaji have established themselves as centers of excellence for Ayurveda-based medicine, research, and innovation in the country. These institutes have given a new direction to healthcare services by integrating modern science with traditional medical practices and have produced a large number of skilled Ayurvedic physicians and researchers.

Chief Minister Sai stated that Chhattisgarh is rich in natural resources and medicinal wealth. A vast area of ​​the state is covered by forests, where numerous rare medicinal plants and herbs grow naturally. The tribal regions also possess a rich heritage of traditional medicinal knowledge. In this context, establishing an All India Institute of Ayurveda here could play a pivotal role in taking Ayurvedic medicine and research to new heights.

He noted that the establishment of an AIIA would provide high-quality healthcare facilities to the people of the state, while offering the youth opportunities for study, teaching, and research at a national-level institute. This would boost Ayurveda-based medical education and enable Chhattisgarh to carve out a new identity in the fields of health, education, and research.

The Chief Minister further highlighted that the benefits of the institute would not be limited to Chhattisgarh alone but would extend to the wider region of Central India. Citizens of neighboring states would also be able to avail themselves of superior Ayurvedic treatment and research facilities.

Referring to the announcement in the Union Budget 2026 regarding the establishment of three new All India Institutes of Ayurveda across the country, the chief minister requested that one of these institutes be allocated to Chhattisgarh. He stated that this institute would not only strengthen healthcare services in the state but also provide fresh impetus to employment, research, and knowledge-based development.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister also apprised the Union Home Minister of the progress regarding ongoing development works, infrastructure expansion, and public welfare schemes in the state’s remote areas, including Bastar.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah appreciated the efforts being made for development and public welfare in the state and assured all possible support from the Central Government.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai Directs Chief Secretary to Undertake Comprehensive Safety Review

Public Safety Is the Highest Priority; No Negligence Will Be Tolerated: Chief Minister Shri Sai

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, while prioritising public safety, has directed a comprehensive review and special audit of safety arrangements in multi-storey residential complexes, commercial establishments, coaching institutes, hotels and other public-use buildings across the state. Taking serious note of recent fire incidents reported across the country, the Chief Minister said it is essential to learn from these incidents and ensure strict compliance with prescribed safety standards.

He said that any issue concerning the safety of citizens, students, and the public is the government’s highest priority. He issued clear instructions that strict action, in accordance with the rules, must be taken against institutions and establishments found neglecting safety norms.

Following the Chief Minister’s directions, Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel has issued instructions to all Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, Municipal Corporation Commissioners, Chief Municipal Officers, the Fire Services Department and officials of concerned departments to undertake a special inspection drive across the state. Under this campaign, detailed inspections will be carried out in multi-storey residential buildings, coaching centres, tuition classes, hotels, lodges, malls, commercial complexes and other public buildings to assess their safety arrangements.

During the inspections, authorities will examine the availability of fire extinguishers and fire safety equipment, validity of fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs), emergency exit arrangements, structural safety of buildings, condition of electrical wiring and equipment, CCTV surveillance systems, first-aid facilities, drinking water and sanitation arrangements, along with other essential safety standards. In addition, the number of occupants relative to building capacity, parking arrangements, and preparedness for evacuation and relief management during emergencies will be assessed.

Chief Minister Shri Sai has directed that institutions found to have deficiencies during inspections should be instructed to undertake necessary corrective measures, and that strict action should be taken in cases where serious irregularities are detected, as per the prescribed rules.

Rules amended after Cabinet approval; Higher fines, stricter vehicle release norms and mining reforms introduced

Raipur, In a major crackdown on illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals, the Chhattisgarh government has introduced sweeping amendments to its Minor Mineral Rules under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai. The revised provisions, approved by the Council of Ministers, aim to curb illegal mining, boost state revenue and ensure scientific and transparent utilisation of mineral resources.

The most significant change relates to penalties for illegal excavation and transportation. The minimum compounding amount has now been fixed at Rs 25,000 in all cases. For illegal transportation, offenders will have to pay a compounding fee of Rs 2,000 per tonne, apart from the full value of the illegally transported mineral. For instance, a vehicle carrying 35 tonnes of minerals illegally will be liable to pay Rs 70,000 as compounding charges, in addition to the mineral’s value. Tractor operators caught transporting sand illegally will also have to pay a minimum compounding fee of Rs 25,000 along with the cost of the sand.

To prevent repeat offences, the government has tightened norms for the release of seized vehicles, machinery and equipment. Security deposits ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 3 lakh, depending on the category of the vehicle, will now have to be deposited before the concerned court prior to release.

Government has eased excavation permit norms for public infrastructure projects. The permissible excavation area for government construction works has been increased from 1 hectare to 2 hectares, while permit validity has been extended from two years to three years.

To promote scientific exploration and infrastructure development, the Chhattisgarh State Mineral Exploration Trust-2025 has been established. Two per cent of royalty collected from minor minerals will be credited to the trust, generating an estimated additional Rs 5.25 crore annually.

The process for amalgamation of mining leases has also been simplified to remove operational difficulties and facilitate premium collection. Further, a uniform system for deduction of mineral royalty, DMF, environmental cess, infrastructure cess and security deposits has been introduced across all construction departments. The amount will be refunded upon royalty clearance from the Mining Department, failing which it will be deposited under the mineral head.

Another key decision extends revenue-sharing benefits from minor minerals to district panchayats in addition to urban local bodies, gram panchayats and janpad panchayats. The government has also increased Dead Rent Rates for mines after nearly 30 years. With over 1,900 minor mineral mines in the state, many lying non-operational, the move is expected to ensure that only serious leaseholders continue operations, while inactive mines become available for re-auction.

The initiative is being seen as a strong manifestation of the Sai government’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal mining, aimed at strengthening enforcement, transparency, revenue generation and sustainable mineral resource management.

New Delhi: Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai met Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah on Wednesday and briefed him on development work being carried out in remote areas of the state, including Bastar. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma was also present.

The Chief Minister stated that in addition to expanding road, education, health, drinking water, and communication facilities in Bastar, special campaigns are being launched to bring government schemes to every village. Government services are being made available to people near their homes through service centers and public convenience centers.

Mr. Sai stated that Bastar is emerging as a new center of development and tourism. Facilities are being expanded at tourist destinations like Chitrakoot, Tirathgarh, and Kanger Valley, creating new employment opportunities for local youth. He stated that development and public welfare efforts are bringing positive changes to the region, and people's trust in the government has strengthened.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah, while appreciating the development works and public welfare efforts being carried out in Bastar, assured the state of all possible support from the Central Government.

A proposal worth over Rs 7 crore has been prepared for the rejuvenation of Maharani Hospital.

Raipur-- Under the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, a proposal has been made to make the historic Maharani Hospital of Jagdalpur a fully equipped and modern medical center of the division and the renovation work will be done in various phases from time to time at a cost of more than 7 crore rupees, through which the people of Bastar can get the best health facilities. The renovation of Maharani Hospital will be completed in more than two phases, which include OPD, emergency unit, OT complex, and ICU.

 Millions of people in the Bastar division will benefit from significant and reassuring news. Super-specialty healthcare facilities will soon be available to patients locally. A proposal worth over ₹7.1 million has been prepared for the comprehensive upgrade and modernization of Maharani Hospital, the district hospital in Jagdalpur. At a meeting of the Jeevan Deep Committee, chaired by Jagdalpur Collector Mr. Akash Chhikara, several important decisions were taken to strengthen the hospital's infrastructure and provide world-class treatment to patients.

Modern operation theatres and new machines will be available

        According to the proposal, the hospital's medical system is being completely upgraded. The modular OT renovation will include refurbishing the operating theaters (OTs) of the Obstetrics, Gynecology, and General Surgery departments with state-of-the-art facilities. The hospital's electrical system will be improved for essential services like CT scans. New machines, such as color Doppler, mobile DR systems, endoscopy, and laparoscopy, will also be purchased. Modern equipment is being procured for ophthalmology and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) treatments.

Special attention to infant and child health

        Health services in the division will be further strengthened to provide better treatment for newborns and children. Under this initiative, repair and safety measures have been approved for the 12-bed Pediatric ICU (PICU) and 30-bed Pediatric Ward to ensure their operational effectiveness. State-of-the-art equipment will be purchased for the SNCU and MNCU wards to treat critically ill children.

The hospital will become self-sufficient in terms of electricity.

        Maharani Hospital is undergoing a major investment to ensure uninterrupted power supply and energy self-sufficiency. An on-grid solar power system will be installed at the hospital at a cost of ₹7.8 million. A new high-capacity DG (generator) set will also be installed for emergency power backup at a cost of ₹6.5 million. Parking facilities and a "home shelter" will be constructed on the hospital campus for patient relatives.

Tough decision for transparency

       In order to maintain transparency in healthcare services and the quality of medicines, the committee has recommended not extending the current contract with the Dhanvantari Medicine Center. Additionally, instructions have been given to restart the Microbiology Department within the Atal Arogya Lab as soon as possible. Biomedical waste management and the repair of air handling units have also been approved.

Work will be completed within the stipulated time frame

      Collector Mr. Akash Chhikara issued strict instructions to officials, urging them to complete all approved development projects within the stipulated timeframe and with high quality. He stated that the primary objective of this initiative is to provide poor patients from remote and rural areas of Bastar division with access to high-quality and accessible medical facilities within Jagdalpur, eliminating the need to travel outside for treatment. This initiative will elevate Bastar's health infrastructure to new heights.

District administration takes major action in line with Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai's resolution for good governance

Government land secured by removing illegal encroachments in Dhamdha tehsil, clear message to land mafia: encroachment on government land will not be tolerated at any cost

Raipur, Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, the district administration is continuously taking strict action in Durg district under the state government's zero tolerance policy for the protection of government land and against land mafias. Under the direction of Collector Shri Abhijeet Singh, the administration has once again made it clear that there is no place in the district for those who illegally occupy government land and strict and legal action against such elements will continue.

In the same sequence, long-standing illegal encroachments on government land in the village of Basni in Dhamdha tehsil were removed and the land was freed from encroachment. Some influential individuals had illegally encroached upon government land by erecting electric fences and cultivating Kharif and Rabi crops. Upon receiving the complaint, Collector Mr. Abhijeet Singh took the matter seriously and ordered an immediate investigation.

Tehsildar Dhamdha received a report from the Halka Patwari and conducted a detailed investigation and hearing into the revenue case. Upon confirmation of the facts, a formal eviction order was passed against the encroachers. In compliance with the order, on June 22, 2026, through a joint effort by the Revenue Department and the Gram Panchayat Basni, extensive action was taken to free the government land from encroachment.

Tehsildar Mrs. Meena Sahu said that during the action, the encroachment made by Seva Ram Lodhi on 20 decimals of government land of Khasra number 1077 and 0.34 hectare of land of Khasra number 1188 was removed. Similarly, 7 decimals of government land was freed from the possession of Rajkumar Lodhi and 13 decimals of government land was freed from the possession of Raj Kapoor Lodhi. Meanwhile, the illegal encroachment made by Shiv Kumar Maurya on 8 decimals of land of Khasra number 1077 and 0.19 hectare of land of Khasra number 1076 and the electric wire installed by him were removed and the land was secured in favor of the government. The entire action was completed peacefully and legally, in which Revenue Inspector Dhamdha, Revenue Inspector Pendravan, Halka Patwari and Gram Panchayat Secretary were present.

The district administration has clarified that, in accordance with the wishes of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, protecting government properties is a top priority. Similar strict action will continue in the future against land mafias, illegal occupants, and those who misuse government land. This decisive initiative by the administration has created an atmosphere of satisfaction and confidence among the villagers, and this step to protect government land is being widely appreciated.

Raipur, June 24, 2026/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary warrior queen Rani Durgavati by garlanding her statue at Canal Linking Road in Raipur on the occasion of her Martyrdom Day. Addressing the commemorative programme, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Rani Durgavati’s indomitable courage, valour and supreme sacrifice constitute an invaluable legacy of Indian history and stand as the finest example of patriotism, self-respect and unwavering devotion to the motherland.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the bravery and sacrifice of Rani Durgavati continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for millions. Her illustrious life encourages society to face adversity with courage, confidence and an unwavering sense of duty. Stressing the importance of remembering great personalities and preserving historical heritage, he said that societies which forget their history and legacy risk jeopardising their future, while those that honour their heroes with gratitude and respect always move towards a brighter future.

Recalling significant episodes from Rani Durgavati’s life, Chief Minister said that she displayed unparalleled courage in confronting the mighty Mughal army. Fighting till her last breath, she placed the defence of her motherland and the preservation of self-respect above all else and attained martyrdom. Her sacrifice, he said, will forever remain etched in Indian history as an chapter of courage and dignity.

Shri Sai further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the nation is progressing with the guiding mantra of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development Alongside Heritage). He noted that the journey of development becomes truly meaningful only when cultural heritage, historical consciousness and the contributions of great personalities are preserved with equal commitment. The spirit of nationalism, self-respect and resilience embodied by Rani Durgavati, he added, continues to guide society even today.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Rani Durgavati’s life is not merely a subject of history, but an enduring source of inspiration for the present and the future. Drawing inspiration from her ideals, he urged people to strengthen their resolve towards building a Viksit Bharat and a Viksit Chhattisgarh.

Among those present on the occasion were Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, Forest and Climate Change Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, MLA Shri Bhulan Singh Maravi, Dr Nand Kumar Sai, Raipur Mayor Smt Meenal Choubey, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Medicinal Plants Board Shri Vikas Markam, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Scheduled Tribe Commission Shri Roop Singh Mandavi, other public representatives and a large number of citizens.

From traditional heritage to modern identity

(L.D. Manikpuri, Assistant Public Relations Officer)

Kodo and Kutki hold special significance in Chhattisgarh's rich agricultural tradition. These minor grains, integral to the diets of tribal and rural communities for centuries, are once again a topic of discussion among farmers, agricultural scientists, and health experts. Amid changing climatic conditions, nutritional challenges, and the need for improved agriculture, millet crops like Kodo and Kutki are emerging as a strong foundation for future agriculture.

Kodo (Paspalum scrobiculatum) and kutki (Panicum sumatrense) are crops that can be successfully grown with little water, low input costs, and limited resources. This is why they are becoming a means of economic security for small and marginal farmers. They are also possible to cultivate in low-fertility, rocky, and sloping soils where other crops cannot produce the desired yield.

Today, as the world returns to healthier eating, the importance of kodo and kutki has increased. Kodo is rich in protein, carbohydrates, iron, and calcium, while kutki is rich in fiber, protein, phosphorus, and other minerals. Experts say that regular consumption can help manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and anemia. This is why they are now being recognized as "super foods."

The Chhattisgarh government is also making continuous efforts to promote millet crops. In the year 2026, the minimum support price of Kodo has been fixed at Rs 3,200 per quintal and that of Kutki at Rs 3,350 per quintal. This has increased the enthusiasm of farmers towards cultivation of these crops along with getting better prices. According to departmental information, in Kharif year 2025, Kodo crop was planted in 39.02 hectares and Kutki crop in 38.03 hectares in the state. However, in the last Kharif year, the production of Kodo per hectare was recorded at 550 kg and that of Kutki at 675 kg. That is, the production of Kodo was 21.46 tonnes, while that of Kutki was 25.67 tonnes.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has also appealed to the farmers to increase the production of crops like Kodo, Kutki and Ragi along with paddy.

Agricultural scientists believe that adopting advanced techniques can significantly increase the productivity of kodo-kutki. With the onset of the monsoon, from the last week of June to the first fortnight of July, measures such as sowing, seed treatment, row planting, balanced fertilizer management, and timely weed control can ensure improved yields for farmers.

Growing market demand, the expansion of millet-based products, and government incentive schemes are steadily increasing the commercial importance of these crops. Once confined to rural and tribal areas, kodo-kutki is now making its mark in national and international markets.

Kodo and Kutki are vital crops for nutritional security, environmental protection, and the economic development of farmers. The need is for farmers to increase the production of these traditional crops with modern technologies, and for consumers to incorporate them into their daily diets. Kodo and Kutki are not just grains, but the foundation of a healthy society, excellent agriculture, and a prosperous future

Raipur/ The Council of Ministers, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, today approved the Chhattisgarh Compressed Biogas (CG-CBG) Policy 2026. This policy will prove to be an important initiative in giving a new direction to clean energy, green industrialization, agriculture-based economy and environmental protection in the state.

Planting 2036 trees in Naya Raipur: A unique initiative in support of hosting the Olympics

Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai planted Rudraksh saplings on International Olympic Day.

Better environment and modern infrastructure for sports is being developed in Chhattisgarh - Chief Minister Shri Sai

Raipur--

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai planted a Rudraksh tree on the occasion of International Olympic Day, participating in the tree plantation and sportsperson felicitation ceremony organized by the Chhattisgarh Olympic Association in village Palod of Nava Raipur. On this occasion, he extended International Olympic Day greetings to the state's players, coaches and sports lovers, describing sports and environmental protection as two important pillars of nation-building.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that India has submitted its bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. To symbolically express this national resolve and aspiration, 2036 saplings are being planted at the event. He said that this is not just a tree-planting campaign, but also a pledge to build a healthy, green, and strong India for future generations.

The Chief Minister said that the Chhattisgarh government is constantly striving to promote sports talent and elevate them to national and international platforms. A better environment and modern infrastructure for sports is being developed in the state so that youth can fully showcase their talents.

He said that Chhattisgarh has the honor of successfully hosting the Khelo India National Tribal Games. Innovative events like the Bastar Olympics have given new recognition to sports talent from remote areas. This year, millions of youth participated in the Bastar Olympics, showcasing their potential, a testament to the growing enthusiasm for sports in the state.

The Chhattisgarh government's ambitious Sughghar Chhattisgarh Abhiyan will begin soon. Under the Abhiyan, the benefits of 31 public welfare schemes of the government will be extended to every eligible family. This Abhiyan will be launched in 23 districts of Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, and Surguja divisions. Chief Secretary Shri Vikassheel today took detailed information from the officials regarding the extensive preparations being made in this regard at the Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan. It is noteworthy that Sughghar Chhattisgarh Yojana is a new initiative of the Chhattisgarh government. Through which the benefits of the government's public welfare schemes will be extended to all eligible families. A comprehensive program is being prepared to ensure that no one is deprived of the benefits of the scheme. Under Sughghar Chhattisgarh, the officials gave detailed information through presentation.

The meeting was attended by Secretary of Housing and Environment Department, Mr. Ankit Anand, Secretary of Panchayat and Rural Development Department, Mr. Bhim Singh, along with officials of other departments including Panchayat and Rural Development Department.