Raipur -- The 57th match of IPL 2026 will be played between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The toss was scheduled for 7:00 PM at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, but has been delayed due to wet ground. An inspection will be held at 8:15 PM.

This match is crucial for both teams. RCB will look to secure a playoff spot with a win, while Kolkata will need a win to stay in the tournament. Bengaluru top the table with 

Possible playing-11 of both the teams

Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam.

Kolkata - Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wicketkeeper), Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Manish Pandey, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Kartik Tyagi, Varun Chakravarthy and Vaibhav Arora

Chief Secretary held a meeting of officials

Raipur, As per the wishes of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Chhattisgarh Government will operate the works of important schemes in mission mode for rapid and targeted development in specific areas. In this regard, a meeting of officials was held today under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Shri Vikasshiil at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan. In the meeting, officials informed that the state government has started new missions for targeted development, which will be operated completely in mission mode. In the meeting, officials gave detailed information about their departmental schemes through presentations.

During the meeting, officials explained the Chief Minister's AI Mission, which aims to make Chhattisgarh a leading state in the country in emerging technologies. To achieve this, local youth will be encouraged to develop AI-based startups. AI will also be used in governance. Government officials and employees are being trained for this purpose. Similarly, students and youth are also being trained.

Under the Chief Minister's Sports Excellence Mission, hidden sports talent at the rural and grassroots levels will be identified and nurtured. Players will be provided with facilities. The state's athletes will be prepared for national and international competitions, and the participation of women athletes will be increased.

Under the Chief Minister's Tourism Mission, theme-based tourism circuits will be developed to promote major tourist destinations on the global map. Cultural fairs, festivals, and exhibitions will be organized, and the "homestay" scheme will be promoted locally. New employment opportunities will be created for local youth through skill development as tour guides.

The Chief Minister's Infrastructure Mission aims to strengthen the state's infrastructure, roads, bridges, and urban-rural connectivity in a mission mode. To accelerate economic development in the state, infrastructure will be rapidly constructed. The Chief Minister's Startup Mission aims to promote entrepreneurship among the state's youth and foster the development of new business ideas. Financial support and simplified procedures will be ensured for new startups.

The meeting was attended by Secretary of Industry and Commerce Department Mr. Rajat Kumar, Secretary of Tourism and Culture Department Dr. S. Bharathidasan, Secretary of Information and Technology Department Mr. Ankit Anand, Secretary of Finance Department Dr. Rohit Yadav, Special Secretary Finance Mr. Chandan Kumar, Special Secretary Higher Education Mr. Jai Prakash Maurya along with officials of Information Technology and CHIPS.

Farmers to benefit from increase in Minimum Support Price of 14 kharif crops including paddy

Raipur, Farm sector gets major policy boost as Centre increases MSP for 14 kharif crops including paddy. Welcoming the move,Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that the decision taken by the Union Cabinet under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the marketing year 2026–27 is a historic step towards increasing farmers’ income, making agriculture profitable, and strengthening the rural economy.

“The significant increase in the MSP of various Kharif crops, including paddy, clearly reflects the Central Government’s strong commitment to ensuring that farmers receive fair value for their hard work,” said Shri Sai. The historic rise in paddy MSP over the past years has further strengthened the dignity, confidence, and prosperity of farmers, he added.

Shri Sai said that the Chhattisgarh Government, while giving the highest priority to farmers’ interests, is procuring paddy at the highest rate in the country at Rs 3,100 per quintal. Hence, this farmer’s friendly policy resulted in record paddy procurement in the state, along with building farmers’ trust in the government.

In a continuous stride towards farmer’s welfare Shri Sai said that state government is continuously working with a commitment towards agricultural progress and rural prosperity. Coordinated efforts of Central and State Governments are working to economically empower farmers and provide new strength to the agriculture sector.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan for this significant and visionary decision taken in the interest of farmers.

Raipur/Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has congratulated all the students who have achieved success in CBSE 12th Board Examination and wished them a bright future.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that this achievement is the result of the students' hard work, discipline, dedication, and persistent efforts. He said that through their hard work, dedication, and self-confidence, the students have set a new example of success, which will serve as an inspiration for other students.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that education is not just a means to score marks in exams, but a strong foundation for personality development, innovation and nation-building. He expressed confidence that in the future, the state's students will excel in education, science, technology, sports, arts, research and various other fields, bringing pride to Chhattisgarh and the country at the national and international levels.

Chief Minister Shri Sai also emphasized the crucial role of parents and teachers on this occasion, saying that the sacrifices of parents, the guidance of teachers, and the constant motivation of students act as a powerful force behind their success. Their dedication to nurturing children, even in difficult circumstances, is commendable.

Chief Minister Shri Sai urged all students to constantly learn, maintain a positive attitude, and remain committed to their goals. He said that the true meaning of success is not just exam results, but also becoming responsible citizens of society and the nation.

Wishing all the students a bright, successful and inspiring future, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the State Government is working with continuous commitment for a better future of the youth, quality education and encouragement of talents.

Raipur/ Rajnandgaon's young weightlifter, Gyaneshwari Yadav, has made Chhattisgarh proud with her impressive performance at the Senior Asian Weightlifting Championships. Competing in the 53 kg category, Gyaneshwari brought honor to the state and nation by winning silver and bronze medals. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai congratulated her on this achievement and wished her a bright future.

Gyaneshwari Yadav lifted 88 kilograms in the snatch and 106 kilograms in the clean and jerk, achieving a best performance of 194 kilograms. Her strong performance on the international stage has given Chhattisgarh's talent new recognition in the sports world.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that Gyaneshwari Yadav's success is an inspiration to the youth of the entire state, especially daughters. Despite limited resources, her achievements at the international level, driven by hard work, discipline, and dedication, are a proud moment in Chhattisgarh's sports history. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that Gyaneshwari will set even greater records for the country in the future.

Chief Secretary chairs review meeting of officials

Raipur, line with the vision of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the Chhattisgarh Government will implement key development initiatives in mission mode to ensure focused and accelerated progress in priority sectors. A review meeting in this regard was held on Wednesday at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel.

During the meeting, officials informed that the state government has launched several new missions for targeted development in mission mode, while detailed presentations on departmental schemes and initiatives were also made.

Officials informed that under the Mukhyamantri AI Mission, Chhattisgarh aims to emerge as a leading state in emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. The mission will promote AI-based startups among youth, integrate AI into governance and administration and provide AI training to government officials, students, and youth.

Under the Mukhyamantri Khel Utkarsh Mission, hidden sporting talent from rural and grassroots areas will be identified and nurtured. The mission aims to provide better facilities to athletes, prepare players for national and international competitions, and promote greater participation of women athletes.

Under the Mukhyamantri Paryatan (Tourism) Mission, theme-based tourism circuits will be developed to place major tourist destinations of the state on the global tourism map. Cultural fairs, festivals, and exhibitions will be organised, while the homestay scheme will be promoted at the local level. Employment opportunities for local youth will also be created through skill development programmes for tour guides.

Through the Chief Minister Infrastructure Mission, the state’s basic infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and urban-rural connectivity, will be strengthened in mission mode. Rapid infrastructure development will be undertaken to accelerate economic growth in the state.

Under the Chief Minister Startup Mission, entrepreneurship among the youth will be promoted and innovative business ideas will be encouraged. Financial assistance and simplified procedures will be ensured for new startups.

The meeting was attended by Industries and Commerce Secretary Shri Rajat Kumar, Tourism and Culture Secretary Dr S Bharathi Dasan, Information Technology Secretary Shri Ankit Anand; Finance Department’s Secretary Dr Rohit Yadav; Finance’s Special Secretary Shri Chandan Kumar, Higher Education’s Special Secretary Shri Jai Prakash Maurya; along with officials from the State government’s I-T Department CHiPS.

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all students who successfully cleared the CBSE Class 12 Board Examination.

The Chief Minister said that this achievement reflects the students’ hard work, discipline, dedication, and continuous efforts. He stated that through their determination, perseverance, and self-confidence, students have set a new example of success that will inspire others as well.

Shri Sai remarked that education is not merely a means of securing marks in examinations, but a strong foundation for personality development, innovation, and nation-building. He expressed confidence that students from Chhattisgarh will continue to excel in education, science, technology, sports, arts, research, and other fields, bringing pride to both the state and the nation at national and international levels.

Highlighting the importance of “holistic and value-based education,” the Chief Minister said that the role of parents and teachers in shaping students’ success is equally significant. He noted that the sacrifices of parents, the guidance of teachers, and their constant encouragement act as a strong support system behind every successful student. Their dedication in helping children move forward even during difficult circumstances is highly commendable.

The Chief Minister also urged students to continue learning throughout life, maintain a positive outlook, and remain committed to their goals. He said that the true meaning of success lies not only in examination results, but also in becoming “responsible and socially aware citizens” who contribute positively to society and the nation.

Shri Sai conveyed his best wishes for a bright, successful, and inspiring future for all students. He added that the Chhattisgarh government remains continuously committed to promoting “quality education and youth empowerment” through various initiatives and opportunities for talented students across the state.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai congratulates Gyaneshwari Yadav

Raipur, Woman weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav from Rajnandgaon has brought laurel to Chhattisgarh with an outstanding performance at the Senior Asian Weightlifting Championship. Competing in the 53 kg category, Gyaneshwari secured silver and bronze medals, enhancing the pride of both the state and the nation. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated her on this remarkable achievement and extended his best wishes for her bright future.

Gyaneshwari Yadav delivered an impressive performance in the championship by lifting 88 kg in the snatch and 106 kg in the clean and jerk, registering a total lift of 194 kg. Her strong showing on the international stage has given a new identity and recognition to Chhattisgarh’s sporting talent.

“Gyaneshwari Yadav’s success is inspirational for the youth of the state, especially for young girls. Despite limited resources, she achieved international success through hard work, discipline and making it a proud moment in the sporting history of Chhattisgarh. Wishing her greater milestones for the country in the future,” said Shri Vishnu Deo Sai.

Sharad Pawar urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convene an all-party meeting on the West Asia crisis, saying it was essential to involve all parties in decision-making on matters of national interest.

Himanta Biswa Sarma has become the Chief Minister of Assam for the second consecutive term. Assam Governor Laxman Acharya administered the oath of office and secrecy to him at the Khanapara Veterinary College Ground in Guwahati.

Besides Himanta, four other MLAs—Rameshwar Teli and Ajanta Neom of the BJP, Atul Bora of the AGP, and Charan Boro of the BPF—were sworn in as ministers. Two of them are from the BJP and two from allies.

Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief Ministers of BJP-NDA-ruled states, and several Union ministers were present at the swearing-in ceremony. Himanta's entire family was also present.

Impact of employment-oriented policies: Chhattisgarh's unemployment rate is only 2.3 percent in PLFS 2025

Chhattisgarh's economic picture is changing through employment, self-employment and skill development.

Opportunities for youth, strengthening villages: Chhattisgarh becomes a positive model in employment generation

Good governance and public welfare schemes have strengthened the employment base: Chief Minister Shri Sai

Raipur: According to the Periodic Labor Force Survey (PLFS) 2025 data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation, Government of India, Chhattisgarh's unemployment rate is significantly lower than the national average at 2.3 percent. This figure reflects the state's strong rural economy, employment-oriented policies, and the effectiveness of public welfare schemes.

The state government's priority has been not only providing employment, but also connecting people to dignified livelihoods, sustainable incomes, and self-reliance. This is why economic activities based on agriculture, forest produce, self-employment, and small enterprises have consistently strengthened employment opportunities in the state.

Making agriculture and related sectors the pivot of economic development in the state, extensive work has been done to connect farmers, villagers and people living in forest areas with livelihood. Procurement of forest produce at support prices, promotion of self-help groups in rural areas, expansion of small and cottage industries, skill development programs and local employment generation schemes have played an important role in economically empowering youth and women. Through various schemes run by the state government, the scope of economic activities in villages has increased, which has reduced migration and also increased employment and self-employment opportunities at the local level.

The state government believes that simply reducing unemployment figures is not enough; rather, it is more important to provide youth with better opportunities commensurate with their abilities and skills. In line with this vision, special emphasis is being placed on skill upgrading, entrepreneurship development, employment-oriented training, and investment-based industrial expansion. The positive results of the new industrial policy are now visible on the ground, with new industries being established continuously in the state, creating new employment opportunities for youth. The government is working with the goal of bringing development to the last person by establishing a balance between the rural and urban economies.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has said that the state government is committed to advancing every youth, farmer, woman and worker of Chhattisgarh with confidence, respect and self-reliance. He said that new development and employment opportunities are being continuously expanded in the state so that the benefits of economic progress reach every section of society. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that through public welfare schemes, good governance and employment-oriented policies, Chhattisgarh will further strengthen its strong position among the leading developing states of the country in the coming times.

Raipur/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has expressed deep condolences on the tragic death of four members of the same family due to short circuit and cylinder explosion in Kumhari police station area of ​​Durg district.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that this incident is extremely heartbreaking and deeply distressing. He expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the peace of the departed souls. The Chief Minister said that the state government stands with the affected family with full sensitivity during this difficult time. He has directed officials to provide all possible assistance to the family.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has announced a special assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of the deceased. This amount will be in addition to the Rs 4 lakh each already provided under government rules.

The Chief Minister has directed the district administration to ensure accommodation, food and other necessary arrangements for the family members and to conduct a detailed investigation into the causes of the incident.

Muchaki Deve's smile tells the story of change, he immediately got a ration card.

Government documents are now available in minutes in Sukma

Raipur, A sensitive initiative by the district administration has brought a new ray of hope to the villagers living in remote areas of Sukma. The newly constructed "Single Window Room" in the Collectorate complex has become not just a government facility but also a center of public trust. Inaugurated by Minister-in-Charge Shri Kedar Kashyap, this system has eliminated administrative complexities, so that villagers no longer have to run to different offices for their important documents.

The most touching display of administrative sensitivity was witnessed when beneficiaries like Muchaki Deve, who had just arrived from the rehabilitation center, were immediately handed ration cards. Muchaki Deve's eyes were filled with joy. She explained that previously, they had to wait months for ration cards or government identification cards, but here, under one roof, their work was done in minutes. The 11 other rehabilitated citizens who accompanied her were also immediately provided with services like Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, and Ayushman cards.

Under the leadership of Collector Mr. Amit Kumar, the district administration has set a new standard of transparency and speed through this innovation. Kawasi Reshma, who hails from a remote village called Mekawaya, 41 km from the district headquarters, is a firsthand witness to this transformation. Reshma said she faced no inconvenience in adding her family's name to the ration card. The staff not only helped with filling out the forms but also provided cordial guidance until the documents were ready.

Collector Mr. Amit Kumar stated that our primary objective is to make the district's administrative processes more simple, transparent, and people-friendly. This "single window" initiative is a major step in this direction, ensuring that villagers from remote forest areas don't have to visit multiple offices for basic documents like Aadhaar cards, ration cards, driving licenses, and Ayushman cards. Now, with all important beneficiary-oriented services available under one roof, villagers are not only saving time but also receiving speedy justice and convenience.

This 'single window' system is putting Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai's pledge of good governance into practice. Statistics show that approximately 67 applications were processed on Tuesday alone, while 3,620 citizens have benefited from this facility since March 16th. From driving licenses to birth certificates, labor cards to residence certificates, these single-room services have saved villagers both time and money. Sukma's single window model has become an example of public service for the state. While previously, visiting the Collectorate was a source of fatigue and frustration for villagers, now beneficiaries returning with smiles on their faces and necessary documents in hand speak for themselves of this initiative's success.

Announced to give Rs 5 lakh to each deceased member

Raipur: Four members of a family, Homdas Vaishnav (40), Laxmi Vaishnav (18), Chandni Vaishnav (17), and innocent Gopika Vaishnav (2), died tragically on the spot in a gas cylinder explosion in Ward No. 4 Khapri, under the Kumhari police station area of ​​Durg district.

Upon learning of the incident during their visit to Durg, Chhattisgarh Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal and School Education Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav immediately rushed to the scene, inspected the scene, and gathered detailed information about the situation. They also spoke with the local residents and reviewed the relief and rescue operations.

Following Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai's instructions, Health Minister Shri Jaiswal announced financial assistance for the families of the deceased. He announced an assistance of ₹5 lakh each for the four deceased. Additionally, the district administration will provide ₹4 lakh each to the families of the four deceased under RBC 6-4.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Health Minister Shri Jaiswal expressed their deep condolences on this incident and prayed for the peace of the departed souls. Present

during the event were Durg Lok Sabha MP Shri Vijay Baghel, MLAs Shri Rakesh Sen, Shri Domanlal Korsevada, Shri Ishwar Sahu, Khadi Village Industries Board Chairman Shri Rakesh Pandey, Oil Mill Board Chairman Shri Jitendra Sahu, Durg Collector Shri Abhijeet Singh, the district administration team, and other public representatives

Principal Secretary inspected PM Shri SEJUS Vidyalaya Kumhari.

Students and candidates made in front of students

Raipur, Principal Secretary of Tribal, Scheduled Caste and Backward Class and Minority Development Department and Secretary in-charge of Durg district, Mr. Sonamni Bora inspected PM Shri Vidyalaya located in Kumhari of Durg district today. During the inspection, he closely observed all the departments of the school. Mr. Bora inspected the school library, science laboratory, Atal Lab, sports room and all the classrooms. He expressed happiness on seeing the Jadoo Pitara activities being conducted in the primary department and the teaching work being done through smart class in the middle department. He interacted with the students with ease and took information about their studies and sports. Collector Mr. Abhijeet Singh was present on this occasion.

Principal Secretary Mr. Bora, in his discussion with the students, stated that success comes from disciplined hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice. During his visit to the PM Shri school, he presented himself as a student and a candidate before the children. He praised the school's excellent exam results and the students' achievements, and met and honored the toppers from all classes. Principal Secretary Mr. Bora and Collector Mr. Singh encouraged the students to set goals in life and asked them what they would like to become. When asked, the toppers expressed their desire to become CAs, cyber engineers, or collectors. Wishing the students a bright future, the officials praised the teachers' efforts and praised the school's academic and co-curricular activities.

Among the honored students is Riya Sahu, a Class 12 student who secured fourth position at the state level. Sakshi Devangan, a Class 10 student, secured eighth position at the district level. Payal Rajani and Naitik Amte of Class 8 secured first and second positions at the cluster level. Similarly, Shivani Patela, a Class 5 student, secured first position, while Bhavya Sahu and Rupali Sahu brought glory to the school by securing second position.

Said- Durg is an important district of the state from social, economic, educational and administrative point of view, Durg has become a model district due to departmental coordination.

Raipur, Principal Secretary and Secretary in charge of Durg district, Shri Sonmani Bora, today reviewed the progress of the government schemes by holding a meeting of the officers of Durg district. In the meeting, he laid special emphasis on the effective implementation of the government schemes, departmental coordination and quick solution of public problems. In the meeting held in the conference hall of the Public Works Department office, he said that Durg district has been an important district of the state from social, economic, educational and administrative point of view, therefore, while maintaining its identity, the officers should work with better coordination. He stressed on developing Durg district as a model district through departmental coordination.

Principal Secretary Mr. Bora stated in the review meeting that it is the primary responsibility of officials to ensure that the public receives prompt benefits of departmental services. He urged that quality resolution of applications received at camps under the government's ambitious Good Governance Festival should be ensured with seriousness and sensitivity. Collector Abhijeet Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police Vijay Agarwal, along with officials from various departments, were present at the meeting.

Emphasis on pure drinking water, drain cleaning and PM housing

In-charge Secretary Mr. Bora said that in view of the summer season, pure drinking water should be ensured for the general public. Water supply through tankers should also be ensured as needed. He also instructed to clean major drains before the monsoon season, remove encroachments, and follow SOPs for cleaning septic tanks. He also stressed the need to expedite the completion of approved PM housing construction projects in urban areas and to organize beneficiary conferences to motivate people to build.

MNREGA wage payment begins, instructions to disseminate information to workers

During the review of MNREGA in the meeting, officials informed that the government has approved the wages of approximately 30 crore 83 lakh rupees pending in Durg district since January 14, 2026, and payments have begun in the workers' accounts. The Secretary in-charge directed all District Panchayat CEOs and Employment Assistants to contact workers directly, share information regarding wage payments, and ensure prompt resolution of payment-related problems.

Lakhpati Didi, focus on health and education too

It was told in the meeting that under NRLM, till now 37 thousand women have been made "Lakhpati Didi" against the target of 78 thousand 411 in the district. During the review of the Health Department, the Secretary in-charge gave instructions to promote institutional delivery, reduce infant mortality rate to zero and provide all the necessary health services. He asked to ban the sale of narcotics around schools and hostels and to complete the necessary repair and improvement work in all the hostels by June 16.

Transparency in providing fertilizers and seeds to farmers

The Agriculture Department was instructed to prepare a plan for fertilizer distribution for the upcoming Kharif season and ensure adequate availability. He said that fertilizer and seeds should be distributed to farmers with transparency. He directed to take strict action against those who black market chemical fertilizers. During the review of the Forest Department, officials informed that under the Kisan Vriksha Mitra Yojana, a target of planting 1 lakh 46 thousand saplings has been set in the district. Also, Chicha and Belaudi areas have been declared wetlands.

At the meeting, Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Vijay Agarwal provided information on the various activities of the police department through a PowerPoint presentation. Divisional Forest Officer Deepesh Kapil, ADM Virendra Singh, Additional Collector Yogita Dewangan, and officials from various departments were present.

Employment-Oriented Policies Deliver Results as Chhattisgarh Records Just 2.3% Unemployment Rate in PLFS 2025

Employment, Self-Employment and Skill Development Transforming Chhattisgarh’s Economic Landscape

Opportunities for Youth, Stronger Rural Economy: Chhattisgarh Emerges as a Positive Employment Model

Good Governance and Welfare Schemes Have Strengthened the Foundation of Employment: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2025, released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India, has revealed that Chhattisgarh’s unemployment rate stands at just 2.3 per cent, significantly lower than the national average. The figures reflect the impact of the state’s “employment-oriented and inclusive development” policies, backed by a strong rural economy and effective public welfare initiatives.

The state government has consistently focused not only on providing employment opportunities but also on ensuring “dignified livelihoods, stable income, and self-reliance” for citizens. As a result, economic activities linked to agriculture, forest produce, self-employment, and small enterprises have continued to strengthen livelihood opportunities across the state.

The government has worked extensively to make agriculture and allied sectors the driving force of economic growth while connecting farmers, rural communities, and forest dwellers with sustainable livelihood opportunities. Initiatives such as the procurement of minor forest produce at support prices, the promotion of self-help groups in rural areas, the expansion of micro and cottage industries, skill development programmes, and local employment generation schemes have played a significant role in economically empowering youth and women.

Various state-run welfare programmes have expanded the scope of economic activities in villages, leading to reduced migration and increased opportunities for local employment and self-employment. The government’s focus on “grassroots economic empowerment” has helped strengthen both rural demand and local entrepreneurship.

The state government believes that reducing unemployment figures alone is not enough. Greater emphasis is being placed on providing young people with “better opportunities aligned with their skills and potential.” In line with this vision, special focus is being given to skill upgradation, entrepreneurship development, employment-oriented training, and investment-driven industrial expansion.

The positive outcomes of the new Industrial Development Policy 2024–30 are also becoming visible at the ground level, with new industries being established across the state and fresh employment opportunities being created for the youth. The policy aims to promote “balanced and sustainable industrial growth” while encouraging investment in emerging sectors, including information technology, food processing, textiles, logistics, and manufacturing.

The government is also working towards balanced growth between rural and urban economies so that the benefits of development reach every section of society.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that the state government is committed to enabling every youth, farmer, woman, and worker in Chhattisgarh to move forward with “confidence, dignity, and self-reliance.” He said that the government is continuously expanding development and employment opportunities so that the benefits of economic progress reach every section of society.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that through public welfare schemes, “transparent and citizen-centric governance,” and employment-oriented policies, Chhattisgarh will further strengthen its identity as one of India’s leading emerging growth states in the coming years.

Principal Secretary inspected PM Shri SEJUS Vidyalaya Kumhari.

Along with studying, students should also become learners and aspirants.

Raipur, Principal Secretary of Tribal, Scheduled Caste and Backward Class and Minority Development Department and Secretary in-charge of Durg district, Mr. Sonmani Bora inspected PM Shri Vidyalaya located in Kumhari of Durg district today. During the inspection, he closely observed all the departments of the school. Mr. Bora inspected the school library, science laboratory, Atal Lab, sports room and all the classrooms. He expressed his happiness on seeing the Jadoo Patara activities being conducted in the primary department and the teaching work being done through smart class in the middle department. He interacted with the students with ease and took information about their studies and sports. Collector Mr. Abhijeet Singh was present on this occasion.

Principal Secretary Mr. Bora, in his discussion with the students, stated that success is achieved through disciplined hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice. During his interaction with the children during the PMSHRI school inspection, he emphasized that for success in life, students must not only study but also become knowledge-hungry learners and aspirants from an early age. He commended the school's excellent exam results and student achievements, and met and honored the toppers from all classes. Principal Secretary Mr. Bora and Collector Mr. Singh encouraged the students to set goals in life and asked what they would like to become. When asked, the toppers expressed their desire to become CAs, cyber engineers, or collectors. Wishing the students a bright future, the officials praised the teachers' efforts and commended the school's academic and co-curricular activities.

Among the honored students is Riya Sahu, a Class 12 student who secured fourth position at the state level. Sakshi Devangan, a Class 10 student, secured eighth position at the district level. Payal Rajani and Naitik Amte of Class 8 secured first and second positions at the cluster level. Similarly, Shivani Patel, a Class 5 student, secured first position, while Bhavya Sahu and Rupali Sahu brought glory to the school by securing second position.