Raipur.  Retired Lieutenant Colonel Govindrao Ghatge, a resident of Budhapara, Raipur, passed away at the age of 93. As per his wishes, his body was donated to AIIMS, Raipur. Sincere condolences...

Rajasthan Royals have been sold for a record $1.63 billion, or approximately ₹15,289 crore (approximately ₹15,289 crore), making them the most expensive team in the IPL.

Indian-American businessman Kal Somani and his consortium have placed the highest bid for the franchise, which has been accepted.

Rajasthan broke the record held by Lucknow Super Giants, who were bought by Sanjiv Goenka's RPSG Group in 2021 for a massive ₹7,090 crore.

RR sold for 24 times more

When Rajasthan Royals was acquired in 2008, it cost just $67 million, which was approximately ₹260-270 crore at the time. If that $67 million is translated into today's value, it translates to approximately ₹628 crore.

Now, in 2026, this same franchise has been sold for approximately $1.63 billion (approximately ₹15,289 crore). This means that compared to the current value in 2008 (₹628 crore), the value of Rajasthan Royals has increased by approximately 24 times.

Rajasthan Royals is one of the original teams of IPL, having won its first title in 2008.

New Delhi: US President Donald Trump spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday and discussed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and Iran's restrictions on the movement of oil and energy vessels through the vital route. This announcement was made by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gore in a post on Twitter. Gore wrote in his post that President Donald Trump just spoke with Prime Minister Modi. They discussed the current situation in the Middle East, including the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. Modi also wrote on Twitter that he received a call from President Trump and had a useful exchange of views on the situation in West Asia. India supports de-escalation of tensions and the restoration of peace as soon as possible. Keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, secure, and accessible is essential for the entire world. We agreed to remain in touch regarding efforts for peace and stability. The narrow Strait of Hormuz, connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, handles a large portion of global oil transportation, making it vital to global energy stability. The call comes a day after Donald Trump announced a halt to planned attacks on Iran. Trump had postponed attacks on Iranian power plants for five days, citing positive talks with Tehran, provided the Strait of Hormuz was reopened. 

Kanker. The Lingo Dev Karsaad Fair, held in Semargaon, a symbol of the district's cultural heritage, will be held this year from April 2nd to 4th. This event is not only a religious ritual but also a celebration of the unity, tradition, and cultural identity of the tribal community. Lingo Dev holds a special place in the tribal community as a Pata Guru (a guide and enlightener). He is believed to have played a crucial role in organizing society, preserving traditions, and establishing values. This is why Lingo Dev is considered not just a deity but the spiritual guru of the entire community.
The fair's most significant feature is its widespread participation, with thousands of devotees from Chhattisgarh, as well as states like Maharashtra, Odisha, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand, arriving with hundreds of traditional deity forms—palans, anga, parasols, and other symbols. This gathering, in essence, takes the form of a Dev Sammelan (conference of deities), a remarkable confluence of cultural diversity and faith. The reverberations of the Mandar, Dhol, and traditional musical instruments fill the entire area with spiritual energy. Devotees dressed in traditional costumes express their faith through dance and rituals. Worship at the venue is conducted in accordance with traditional customs and traditions, and is conducted by the local traditional commi

The folklore associated with Lingo Dev also makes this fair special. Locals believe that devotees worship here for guidance in times of crisis, to pray for rain, and to attain happiness and prosperity in life. Strict traditions surrounding entry and worship at the Devgudi are also distinctive features of this event. Traditional attire is mandatory for men, while certain rules are strictly followed to maintain discipline and purity. This system keeps centuries-old traditions alive even today. It is also noteworthy that this event is not limited to the tribal community; other communities also actively participate, which conveys a message of social harmony. This year, for the first time, increased administrative involvement has been achieved, and efforts are being made to ensure better arrangements for the devotees. Even in this era of modernity, the Lingo Dev Karsad Fair remains a powerful medium for preserving the cultural roots of Bastar. This festival not only keeps traditions alive but also connects future generations to their identity and hecontex

Mahasamund. The 24th National Para Athletics Championship 2026 was organized by the Paralympic Committee of India and the State Para Sports Association Odisha from March 18 to 21 at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Five players from Mahasamund district participated in it. 
Niranjan Sahu, founder of Fortune Foundation Karmapatpar Bagbahara Khurd Bagbahara District Mahasamund and manager of the national team, said that four boys and one girl player, coach manager and guide runner Prashant Nishad and Animesh Sidar, and Sukhdev's guide runner Venkatesh participated. Sukhdev participated in the 1500 meter race in the T11 category of the senior championship and succeeded in winning the gold medal by performing well in the 1500 meter race. Nikhil Kumar Yadav participated in the 1500 meter race in the T12 category. In T12 category Notshan Lal Patel participated in 400 meter race and Ishwari Nishad participated in 200 meter and 400 meter race and succeeded in winning bronze medal in 200 meter race. Sukhdev made the state and district proud by winning gold medal in 1500 meter race and Ishwari Nishad won bronze medal in 200 meter race. District administration and concerned officials congratulated and wished 05 players from Mahasamund district for participating in the National Championship and winning 02 medals.

A district-level committee will monitor construction work, and a progress report will be submitted every Monday
. Kawardha: Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma held a marathon review meeting with departments and contractors involved in the construction of the Bhoramdev Corridor at the Bhoramdev Temple complex. He thoroughly reviewed the progress made so far in the project, including the upgrade of the main temple complex, the beautification of the lake, the Madwa Mahal, Cherki Mahal, Ramchuwa, Saroda, and the parking lot. He stated that all work will be monitored based on quality and timely completion. A district-level monitoring committee has been formed for this purpose. He asked all contractors to submit a timeline of work to be completed every 15 days. He directed the monitoring committee to inspect the work site every Monday and review the progress. He instructed all project in-charges and engineers involved in the construction work to be present at the meeting. He threatened strict action against any negligence.During the review, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sharma said that platforms should be constructed around the trees in the main temple complex for devotees visiting for darshan. All entrance gates and pillars to the temple complex should be designed to reflect the unique Nagavanshi architecture, and the wooden doors should be carved accordingly. All gates, including the main entrance, should be constructed with grandeur. He also called for pitching and lining work at the lake site to be carried out with technical excellence. He directed that stairs and sheds be constructed systematically on the lake shore so that devotees can sit comfortably. The streetlight poles along the lake should also be designed with attractive designs to enhance the grandeur of the entire route.

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sharma said that the doors and windows of the resting place to be built in the temple complex should be installed in such a way that it provides adequate ventilation and light to the entire building along with grandeur. He said that the artefacts to be installed in the temple complex should reflect the local and folk culture. He directed to prepare strong flooring with adequate space for vehicles in the parking lot. He said that the shops to be built near the parking lot should be built in such a way that the entry and exit of vehicles in the parking lot is organized and smooth. He directed to pay special attention to public facilities like drinking water and toilets in the entire corridor.

Kawardha. Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Vijay Sharma held an important meeting with officials from the construction agency, CGMSC, and the district hospital at the Collector's office in Kawardha on Saturday to thoroughly review the progress of the medical college building construction and preparations for the upcoming academic session. In the meeting, he inquired in detail from officials about the current status, timeframe, and quality of the construction work and issued necessary guidelinesDeputy Chief Minister Mr. Sharma stated clearly that completing the construction of the medical college building within the stipulated timeframe is a top priority. He directed that the academic building be completed by May 31, 2027, and all other necessary buildings, including the boys' and girls' hostels, interns' mess, Dean's and MS's residences, and labs, be completed by March 31, 2027.

Durg. DIG and SSP Vijay Agarwal has issued orders transferring 12 police personnel in Durg district. The list includes Assistant Sub-Inspectors, Head Constables, and Constable-level personnel, who have been assigned new responsibilities at various police stations, outposts, and units. The department's order attributes these transfers to administrative needs and family reasons. This change will create balance in the police system, speed up operations, and more effectively maintain law and order in various areas.
The transfer list includes three Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs). ASI Babulal Sahu, posted at Bhilai-03 police station, has been transferred to Pulgaon. ASI Ashwani Singh, posted at Jivisha, has been transferred to Dhamdha, and ASI Rajkumar Dubey, posted in the control room, has been assigned new responsibilities at Jivisha. Three Head Constables have also been transferred. Dilawar Singh, posted at Manchandur outpost, has been sent to Civil Lines. Khilawan Singh Rajput from Traffic Branch has been posted at Ajak Police Station and Satyendra Madharia from Bori Police Station has been posted at Bhilai-03 Police Station

Six constable-level personnel have also been transferred. Vijay Kumar Paswan has been transferred from the Line to the Litiya Semaria outpost, Avinesh Pratap Singh from the ASP City office to the Utai police station, A. Krishna Kumar from the Traffic Police Station to the ACCU, and Kalpana Thakur from the Supela police station to the Litiya Semaria outpost. Furthermore, Shriram has been transferred from the Line to Bori, and Rakesh Sahu to the Mac

Bijapur. Through the efforts of the district police and administration, continuous efforts are being made to educate and empower surrendered Naxalites who have abandoned Naxalism and returned to mainstream society. In this context, through the Ullas-Nav Bharat Literacy Program, implemented under the National Education Policy 2020, basic literacy (basic reading and writing skills) training is being provided to surrendered Naxalites who never received formal schooling. As part of this campaign, 85 surrendered Naxalites, who have completed basic literacy training, took the literacy test today.
Previously, 272 surrendered Naxalite cadres have successfully completed this training, and now, after becoming literate, they are living like normal citizens. All of them are being provided with the full range of assistance, employment-oriented training, and rehabilitation benefits provided under the Chhattisgarh government's Naxal Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy. The police administration's primary objective is to divert misguided youth from the path of violence and empower them with pens through education. Bijapur police are continuously appealing to Naxalites active in the district to abandon the path of violence, surrender, and begin a peaceful life by taking advantage of the government's rehabilitation policy.

00 Registration of land and house will be simpler, more accessible and less expensive - Commercial Tax Minister Choudhary 
00 Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly passed the Chhattisgarh Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2026 by voice vote

Raipur. The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly today passed the Chhattisgarh Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2026, by voice vote. The passage of this bill eliminates the 0.60 percent cess levied on the registration of immovable property based on market value. Commercial Tax Minister Mr. O.P. Choudhary stated that this decision will directly benefit the state's common citizens, farmers, middle-class families, and millions of people involved in the purchase and sale of property.With the abolition of the Chhattisgarh cess, the cost of property registration will now decrease. For example, citizens will directly save approximately ₹60,000 on a property with a market value of ₹1 crore. This will make land and property registration more accessible, simpler, and less expensive. Presenting the bill in the Assembly on this occasion, Minister Mr. Chaudhary said that this bill is not merely a legal amendment, but a powerful symbol of the state government's commitment to public interest, public welfare, and equitable reforms in the tax system. He said that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai, is of the clear opinion that the objective of governance is not merely to generate revenue, but to make people's lives simple, accessible, and dignified.

Commercial Tax Minister Mr. Chaudhary stated that the state government, through GST 2.0 in September 2025, provided extensive tax concessions on goods and services used by the general public, reducing the cost of living for ordinary citizens. In this vein, several historic, practical, and public-friendly reforms have been implemented in the Registration Department, aimed at reducing the financial burden on the public and simplifying services. He explained that the automatic name transfer system has proven to be extremely beneficial for the public. Immediate name transfer after registration has not only provided financial savings to parties but also relieved them of the months-long name transfer process. Since May 2025, nearly 150,000 documents have been successfully transferred automatically.To make the registration system more robust and transparent, a convenient mobile app has been developed, which helps ensure the accurate geographical location of properties. Furthermore, Aadhaar-based verification has been implemented in registration offices to prevent fraudulent individuals from concealing their identities. For the convenience of citizens, the department is equipping registration offices with all the amenities they need, similar to visa offices, at no additional cost. This includes air-conditioned waiting rooms, clean drinking water, clean toilets, free Wi-Fi, and queue-based, quick registration. Currently, 10 registration offices are being developed as smart registration offices on a PPP basis, with other offices to be upgraded in a phased manner.

Chaudhary stated that the government has improved the registration fee system. Previously, property registration fees were charged based on the higher of the guideline value and market value. This change has now linked the registration fee to the guideline value rather than the transaction value, providing relief to a large number of families. For example, if the guideline value of a property is ₹10 lakh, but the document shows ₹25 lakh due to bank loans, the fee will now be charged only on ₹10 lakh. This decision has resulted in the state government sacrificing revenue of approximately ₹170 crore.
Chaudhary explained that previously, registration fees were charged at 0.8 percent of the market value for family registrations such as donations, partitions, and relinquishments. The government has reduced this to just ₹500, regardless of the property's value. For example, the fee previously charged for donating property worth ₹1 crore (approximately ₹80,000) has now been reduced to just ₹500, providing significant relief to ordinary families and farmers.
Extensive public-friendly reforms have also been made in guideline pricing. The square meter-based valuation system has been abolished, eliminating excessive valuations even for small plots of land in rural areas. Valuations are now based on hectare rates. This is estimated to benefit the public by ₹300 to ₹400 crore (approximately ₹300-₹400 crore).
Minister Mr. Chaudhary stated that the government has also eliminated provisions such as the two-and-a-half-fold valuation applicable to agricultural land in rural areas, various additional valuations in cities and villages, and separate valuations for trees on land. This has reduced unnecessary financial burden on the public and promoted environmental protection. Providing relief to urban middle-class families, flats are now valued based solely on built-up area instead of super built-up area. Additionally, unnecessary additional assessments due to factors such as boundary walls and plinths have also been eliminated.
Chaudhary stated that the government has also taken important steps in the interest of farmers. Previously, additional assessments were imposed on land holdings such as double-crop land, cash crops, and fish ponds, increasing the financial burden. Now, by eliminating these provisions, agricultural land transactions have been made more convenient, equitable, and cost-effective. The Minister informed the House that a cess on the transfer of immovable property was provided under the Chhattisgarh Cess Act, 1982. In 2023, the then government imposed a cess at the rate of 12 percent in addition to the stamp duty to fund the Chhattisgarh Employment Mission and the Rajiv Gandhi Mitra Club Scheme. This resulted in citizens incurring an additional burden of approximately 0.60 percent of the market value on property registration.
Commercial Tax Minister Mr. Chaudhary stated that the Rajiv Gandhi Mitra Club Scheme is currently not operational, and employment-related schemes are now funded from the state's general budget. Consequently, the purpose for which this cess was imposed is no longer relevant. In line with this vision, the decision has been made to abolish this unnecessary cess to provide relief to the public.
The Minister explained that the state government received revenue of approximately ₹148 crore from the cess in 2024-25, and approximately ₹150 crore has been collected so far in the current financial year. While the abolition of the cess will result in a revenue loss for the government, the public will directly benefit, and this is the core of the government's policies.
He further stated that through this amendment, it is proposed to remove the cess-related provisions contained in Sections 8, 9, and 10 of the Schedule of the Chhattisgarh Cess Act, 1982. The cess imposed on the registration of immovable property transfer deeds will now be completely abolished.
This government decision and the reforms made in the Registration Department will provide numerous direct benefits to the people of the state. Property registration fees will be reduced, land and property registration will become more affordable, middle-class and low-income families will receive relief, document registration will increase, farmers and families will receive direct economic benefits, and the market value of property and economic activity will also be boosted.
Minister Mr. Choudhary said that the state government has always adhered to the principle that the people of Chhattisgarh should not be burdened with unnecessary taxes. This decision and this series of reforms will provide relief to millions of citizens who use their life's earnings to purchase land, build homes, divide property within their families, or transfer property for their children's future. This is not just a tax reduction, but a reflection of a government sensitive to the hard work, dreams, and rights of the people. He said that due to the public-friendly reforms made in the Registration Department since the Vishnu Dev government came to power, the public will directly benefit the public by ₹460 crore annually through concessions in registration fees.
Cess on immovable property registry abolished, big relief to common citizens - Chief Minister Sai 
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai stated that the abolition of the 0.60 percent cess imposed on the registration of immovable property through the Chhattisgarh Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2026, is an important decision taken by our government in the public interest. He stated that our government's clear objective is to ensure that ordinary citizens, farmers, and middle-class families are not burdened with any unnecessary financial burden. Keeping good governance, transparency, and public welfare at the core of the state, we are continuously simplifying, refining, and improving the tax system. The Chief Minister stated that this decision is not just a tax relief, but a meaningful initiative towards honoring the dreams of millions of families who purchase homes and land with their hard-earned money. He expressed confidence that this step will increase property registration, accelerate economic activity, and provide new impetus to the creation of a developed Chhattisgarh.

Raipur. Abujhmadia youth, who came from remote, sensitive and formerly Naxal-affected areas of Narayanpur district, today directly observed the proceedings of the House in the new Vidhan Sabha located in Naya Raipur. By reaching this vibrant temple of democracy, the youth closely understood the legislative functioning of the government and administration and experienced the role of public representatives. On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma and Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap met these youth.

Organized under the Swami Vivekananda Youth Promotion Scheme, this tour involved approximately 147 youth from the Abujhmadia community, a Scheduled Tribe (Specially Backward Tribe), from highly sensitive areas like Kutul, Orchha, Kalmanar, Jharwahi, Kodkanar, Murehnar, Gumiyabeda, Murhanar, and Nednar in Narayanpur. It is noteworthy that most of these youth visited Raipur city for the first time, which was a new and exciting experience for them.
Upon reaching the Assembly, the youth witnessed the question hour, discussions, and decision-making process firsthand, which expanded their understanding and awareness of democracy. They were also given detailed information about the legislative process, governance, and decisions taken in the public interest.

On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma held a cordial meeting with the youth. He listened attentively to their experiences and encouraged them, saying that active youth participation is essential for strengthening democracy. He urged them to move forward with education, awareness, and positive thinking.

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sharma said that these young people, emerging from highly sensitive areas and moving forward with new thinking and determination, are symbols of the state's bright future. He inquired from the youth about their experiences regarding the development taking place with the elimination of Naxalism. He encouraged everyone to join self-help groups and cooperative societies and increase their livelihoods by processing and promoting locally produced minor forest produce. He informed the youth about various government schemes and encouraged them to take advantage of them.

Forest Minister and Narayanpur MLA Shri Kedar Kashyap also met with the youth from his area. He inquired about their travel experiences and inquired about the developments and facilities in their areas. The youth also shared their experiences, calling it an important and inspiring moment in their lives.

00 Governor briefs defense experts on Chhattisgarh's unique features, says Chhattisgarh is a picturesque state with beautiful culture, art, and traditions
Raipur. A study team from the Defense College, New Delhi, paid a courtesy call on Governor Ramen Deka today. The 16-member team was visiting Chhattisgarh from March 15th to 20th as part of the Defense College's Understanding India Study Tour (UIST) on national security and strategic studies. On the last day of their visit, the team met Governor Deka today. The team included senior officers from the Indian Armed Forces, military officers from friendly countries, and some civil service officers. The team visited various tourist destinations in Chhattisgarh, including the Barnawapara Sanctuary, the Tribal Museum, Purkhaiti Muktangan, various waterfalls in Bastar, and the Shilpgram in Kondagaon.

Addressing the study team members, Governor Deka said, "Chhattisgarh is a beautiful state. Tell your friends and family about your visit and the beauty of Chhattisgarh so they can also come here as tourists." He discussed the unique features of Chhattisgarh with the study team. He explained that Chhattisgarh is known as the rice bowl and that rice varieties have been preserved here. He also discussed Chhattisgarh's handicrafts, such as Dhokra art, wooden art, and bamboo art. The state is also rich in talent, with thousands of software engineers from Chhattisgarh serving in Houston, USA. Furthermore, the North American Chhattisgarh Association, an organization of Chhattisgarhi immigrants settled in the US, organizes a Swadeshi Mela in the US, showcasing Chhattisgarh's art, culture, and traditions. He spoke about promoting renewable energy sources and fostering innovation in the health and education sectors. Deka also informed the study team about the Chhattisgarh government's public welfare policies.

During the visit, the study team members shared their experiences and praised the beauty, culture, art, and traditions of Chhattisgarh. The study team praised the hospitality of Chhattisgarh, saying that the people here are simple and cordial. They all enjoyed their visit. The study team members also praised the public welfare schemes implemented in the state, such as the Mahatari Vandan, Krishak Unnati Yojana, and the Naxal Rehabilitation Policy.

Raipur. The conservation and rehabilitation of crocodiles is important because it fulfills our responsibility to protect wildlife and promotes crocodile conservation. The Crocodile Conservation Reserve, Kotmisonaar, established within the Janjgir-Champa Forest Division of Chhattisgarh, is emerging as a successful example of wildlife conservation, rural development, and tourism. This center was established with the aim of conserving and promoting crocodiles.

Not all crocodile species are endangered, but due to the extremely low populations of some species, their management and protective legislation are required. The Crocodile Conservation Project was initiated in India under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, by the Government of India. Its primary objectives are to protect natural habitats, promote crocodile populations through captive breeding, and address the low survival rate of young in the natural environment.

The Forest Department identified Mudtalab in Kotmisonar village of Janjgir-Champa district for crocodile conservation. Crocodiles from various ponds in the district were brought here and released in a safe environment. Currently, approximately 250 crocodiles are protected here. The project began on May 9, 2006, with the foundation stone laid by the then Chief Minister, Dr. Raman Singh, and was inaugurated on August 23, 2008, by the then Forest Minister, Brijmohan Agrawal. Spread over an area of ​​approximately 57,037 hectares, the center has a 34-hectare core zone and a 23,037-hectare buffer zone. The Forest Department has also developed it for tourism purposes, providing facilities such as a pagoda, watch tower, interpretation center, cafeteria, children's park, energy park, and a 3-D mini theater.
It is noteworthy that a tourism fee has been implemented here since November 1, 2015. Due to the increasing number of tourists, Kotmisonar village is now developing into a small market, providing regular employment opportunities to the local villagers. The Crocodile Conservation Reserve, Kotmisonar, is not only playing a vital role in wildlife conservation but also strengthening the local economy through tourism. The Mudatalab Crocodile Conservation and Tourism Centre at Kotmisonar is easily accessible. It is located approximately 25 kilometers from Janjgir district headquarters and approximately 30 kilometers from Bilaspur via Jairamnagar. The nearest railway stations are Janjgir-Naila (30 km), Kotmisonar (1 km), Akaltara (9 km), and Bilaspur (30 km).