Calls for public participation to ensure no child is deprived of education

Raipur, June 15, 2026/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has appealed to public representatives across the state to actively participate in the ‘Shala Pravesh Utsav’ scheduled from June 16 to June 27.

Extending his greetings to students, parents, teachers and all those associated with the education sector on the commencement of the new academic session, Shri Sai said the state is organizing the Shala Pravesh Utsav across Chhattisgarh to mark the beginning of the school year. He said the initiative aims to ensure that every child is enrolled in school and continues his or her education regularly.

In a letter addressed to public representatives, including ministers, members of Parliament, MLAs, district and janpad panchayat presidents, mayors and urban local body representatives, Shri Sai stressed that education is the strongest foundation for the progress of any society and nation. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child in the state is deprived of education,” chief minister said.

He also urged public representatives to visit schools in their respective areas and encourage the identification and enrollment of children who have not yet joined school or have dropped out of their studies. “The participation of public representatives will help transform this campaign into a people’s movement,” Shri Sai said.

Highlighting the state’s efforts to improve educational quality, chief minister said the government is strengthening learning infrastructure through PM SHRI schools and other initiatives designed to create a better academic environment.

He added that the state will establish 150 Vivekananda Schools beginning in 2026 to expand access to quality education and set new benchmarks in school education. Government schools are being upgraded in line with the National Education Policy 2020, with a focus on modern infrastructure, technology-enabled learning and student-centered education.

Chief minister noted that students are being provided midday meals, free textbooks and uniforms, while girls continue to benefit from schemes such as Saraswati Cycle Yojana. These measures, he said, are intended to ensure that no child is denied education because of financial constraints.

Expressing confidence in the success of the campaign, Shri Sai said active support from public representatives and broad public participation would help achieve the goal of bringing every child in the state into the education system and ensuring access to the right to education.

Morena: A tragic train accident occurred in Madhya Pradesh's Morena district on Sunday. Panic erupted after rumors of a fire on the Khajuraho-Udaipur Intercity Express, prompting passengers to pull the chain and stop the train.

After this, many passengers panicked and got off the train and ran to the other track. Meanwhile, the Patalkot Express, which was passing by, struck four passengers, killing them. A four-year-old child was among the dead.

The accident occurred near Hetampur, between Morena and Dholpur railway stations in Rajasthan. According to reports, the Intercity Express was carrying approximately 120 passengers. A passenger's mobile phone signaled a short circuit, leading to rumors of a fire in the compartment. Panic gripped the passengers. A passenger pulled the chain, bringing the train to a halt.

As soon as the train stopped, many passengers hurriedly got off and stood on the nearby railway line. Meanwhile, the Patalkot Express, coming at high speed on the other track, struck them. It is being reported that the passengers were unable to see the other train due to the blind curve at the scene.

The deceased were identified as Agra resident Afreen (35), her four-year-old son Asad Khan, Runkata resident Shakuntala (60) and Bikaner resident Virma Devi (60) of Rajasthan.

Nadeem Khan, who lost his wife and son in the accident, said that he and his family had gotten off the train after the rumors spread. He went back into the coach to get his elder son off, when his wife and younger son were hit by another train right before his eyes.

Railway officials and police arrived at the scene as soon as the incident was reported. The accident was so horrific that body remains were scattered far and wide, and were recovered using drones. The railway and administration have launched an investigation.

Dharamsala. India got off to a strong start in the series by defeating Afghanistan by 7 wickets in the first ODI. Due to rain, the match was reduced to 25 overs a side, but even this shortened match created several significant records. Captain Shubman Gill and veteran batsman Rohit Sharma achieved significant milestones.

Rohit Sharma has reached a new milestone in international cricket by completing 16,000 runs as an opener. He achieved this feat during his 16-run innings against Afghanistan. Rohit became the second Indian batsman and the seventh in the world to achieve this feat. Previously, this record was held by Virender Sehwag from India. The record for most runs as an opener is held by Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya, who scored 19,298 runs.

Rohit Sharma set another record in this match. He became the oldest player to play in an ODI for India. He broke the record held by former all-rounder Mohinder Amarnath, taking the field at the age of 39 years and 44 days.

Meanwhile, captain Shubman Gill also made history. Gill reached 3,000 runs in ODI cricket, becoming the Indian batsman to reach this milestone in the fewest innings. He achieved this feat in just 62 innings. He is surpassed globally only by South Africa's Hashim Amla, who reached 3,000 runs in 57 innings.

Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz also performed brilliantly in the match. He scored a century in 48 balls against India, the fastest century by an Afghan batsman in ODIs. He broke Mohammad Shahzad's 16-year-old record.

Indian bowler Gurnur Brar made a brilliant debut, taking three wickets. He made an impact in his very first ODI. India performed well with both bat and ball to secure an easy victory in a rain-affected match.

Mumbai. Happiness has arrived at the doorstep of renowned TV actress Surbhi Jyoti. Surbhi Jyoti, who gained a household name with her role as Zoya Farooqui in the serial "Qubool Hai," has given birth to a daughter. The actress welcomed her little angel on June 13th. On Sunday, she shared the good news with her fans through a social media post.

Surbhi shared a special photo on Instagram, captioned "It's a Girl." The photo also showed her daughter's birth date, June 13th. She captioned the post, saying her daughter had arrived and that her heart was filled with love and gratitude. Following the news, TV stars and fans began pouring in their best wishes for the couple.

Actress Hina Khan commented on Surbhi's post, congratulating her and writing "Mashallah." Actor Arijit Taneja also extended his best wishes to the couple. Fans on social media are constantly expressing their happiness for Surbhi and her family.

Surbhi previously announced her pregnancy on February 11th of this year. In an interview, she revealed that the family was extremely excited to welcome this new member. She said that her mother and mother-in-law supported her throughout the process and shared their experiences.

Surabhi Jyoti and her husband, Sumit Suri, were married on October 27, 2024, in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand. The wedding was held in traditional Hindu rituals, attended by family and close friends. The couple first met on the set of the music video "Haanji - The Marriage Mantra."

Surbhi began her career in Punjabi theater and television. She gained immense popularity with the 2012 serial "Qubool Hai." She has also played significant roles in popular shows like "Naagin 3" and "Koi Laut Ke Aaya Hai." Now, the actress has entered a new chapter in her life.

Delhi. The Indian Army has taken a major step toward eliminating many colonial-era vestiges from its traditions and uniforms. The Army has released new "Army Uniform-2026" guidelines, which include changes to several rules related to uniforms, parades, and military conduct. According to the Army, these changes aim to realign the Indian Army's identity with the country's sovereignty and national spirit.

The most significant change in the 174-page new uniform book concerns the reviewing officer's sword during parades. It will no longer be mandatory for the reviewing officer to carry a sword. However, the parade commander, contingent commander, and certain designated officers will be able to carry a sword during major military ceremonies. It will continue to be used for events such as Republic Day, Independence Day, Army Day, and the Guard of Honor.

The new guidelines also remove old colonial terms. Words like "Royal," which were widely used, are now being removed from military terminology. Furthermore, the pouch belt worn with some mess uniforms has also been removed.

For the first time, the indigenously designed Bandi jacket has been included in the Army's formal civilian dress. This closed-neck jacket can be worn with a full-sleeved shirt, formal trousers, and closed shoes.

The Army had previously abolished several British-era traditions in February 2023. These included the use of horse-drawn carriages for ceremonies, the "pull-out" ceremony during retirement, and the tradition of pipe bands at dinners.

The new uniform guidelines also set rules regarding personal conduct for soldiers. Unauthorized beards, odd hairstyles, visible electronic gadgets, tattoos, body piercings, and makeup will be prohibited. Furthermore, wearing the uniform at political and religious events, demonstrations, private parties, and paid media events will not be permitted without permission.

This year, the Army has also renamed 246 roads, buildings, and other facilities at its bases. The aim is to replace British-era names with names honoring Indian heroes, war heroes, and military officers. Kirby Place in Delhi Cantonment has been renamed Kenuguruse Vihar, and Mall Road has been renamed Arun Khetrapal Marg. The Army says these changes are being made to strengthen the modern Indian military identity.

Dehradun. The murder of BJP leader Vinod Kumar in Bairagiwala village, Dehradun, sparked widespread unrest on Sunday. Angry residents set fire to the homes of the accused, torched tractors, and pelted stones at police and media personnel. As the situation worsened, ITBP, PAC, and a heavy police force were deployed in the village. The administration demolished the main accused's house with a bulldozer.

Villagers and family members blocked the Dehradun-Herbertpur highway for about five and a half hours in protest of Vinod Kumar's murder. The protesters demanded the immediate arrest of all those involved in the murder and strict action against the main accused. The highway was reopened after assurances from the administration.

According to police, a dispute arose between two parties in Bairagiwala village, under the Sahaspur police station area, over irrigation water and monetary transactions. Vinod Kumar was attacked during the incident, suffering serious head injuries. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Three other family members were also injured in the incident.

Vinod Kumar was the district media in-charge of the BJP OBC Morcha and an RTI activist. His family alleges that he had previously received threats. Police have registered a case against 12 named and more than 30 unidentified individuals. Four accused have been arrested so far, while the search for others is ongoing.

Tensions rose in the village after news of the murder spread. A mob set fire to the homes of the accused, forcing police to use force to control the situation. Authorities have appealed to the public to maintain peace and assured strict action against the culprits.

Raipur.  Beginning in the new academic year 2026-27, special emphasis will be placed on connecting students with academic education, along with moral values, national spirit, and Indian cultural traditions, in both government and private schools in Chhattisgarh. To this end, the School Education Department has issued new directives for all schools in the state. Under these directives, all schools will ensure regular and mandatory morning singing of the national anthem, national song, and state song, along with various cultural and educational activities.

Under this order issued b the Ministry, Mahanadi Bhawan (Nava Raipur), all District Education Officers (DEOs) have been assigned the responsibility of implementing this system in their respective areas with immediate effect. According to the department's guidelines, schools will now have activities in a predetermined sequence at three different times daily. In the morning assembly, immediately after school begins, certain specific activities will be required in a predetermined sequence: the national anthem, the national song, the Deep Mantra, Saraswati Vandana, the Guru Mantra, and readings about the lives of great personalities. Similarly, during lunch, students will collectively recite the Bhojan Mantra (meal prayer). Finally, at school closing time (in the evening session), the State Song, the Gayatri Mantra, and the Shanti Mantra will be recited collectively.

government order

The School Education Department believes that regular and effective conduct of these activities will not only strengthen students' sense of patriotism and discipline, but will also foster their moral values ​​and cultural consciousness. This initiative will prove to be a milestone in introducing students to Indian traditions and national values.

Action will be taken for violation

The administration has clarified that all district education officers must conduct daily surprise inspections of schools and ensure that these rules are strictly followed. If any violations are found, administrative action may be taken against the school management or principal.

Raipur/Jashpur. CG NEWS: Historic and long-awaited good news has arrived for the Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh. For the first time since independence, the path has been cleared to connect Jashpur to the rail network. The Ministry of Railways, Government of India, has notified the Dharamjaigarh–Pathalgaon–Lohardaga new rail line project as a special rail project. With this decision, the decades-long demand of the region's residents has reached a decisive milestone.

00 Water conservation gives new direction to agricultural development, hope of double crop and increased income
Balrampur. Efforts being made towards water conservation and agricultural empowerment in Chhattisgarh are bringing positive changes in rural areas. The check dam constructed under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) in village Sulsuli of Balrampur district is proving to be a boon for the farmers. With this initiative, now the farming of the farmers will not be dependent only on rain, rather they will get the opportunity of double crop production by getting irrigation facility throughout the year.

Under the guidance of the district administration, a check dam was constructed on the Ledo Nala in the Sulsuli Gram Panchayat under the Wadrafnagar District Panchayat at a cost of approximately 17 lakh rupees in the financial year 2025-26. This structure will play a vital role in strengthening water conservation in the area and increasing agricultural production.

Previously, due to a lack of irrigation resources, village farmers had to practice primarily rain-fed agriculture. Due to insufficient water availability after the Kharif season, much of the agricultural land remained fallow during the Rabi season. With the construction of the check dam, approximately 10 farmers will now have access to additional irrigation facilities covering 15 hectares of agricultural land, enabling cultivation in both the Kharif and Rabi seasons.
According to experts, the check dam will not only increase water storage but also improve groundwater levels. This will increase the availability of water in nearby wells and other water sources, benefiting farmers and villagers for a long time. The expansion of irrigation facilities will enable farmers to cultivate vegetables, pulses, and other cash crops alongside traditional crops, creating new opportunities for crop diversification and income growth.

This check dam will also prove useful in the daily lives of the villagers. The conserved water can be used for domestic needs, drinking water for animals, and other disposal purposes, significantly reducing the water crisis in the village.

Raipur: Lack of capital was once a major challenge for millions of street vendors, who sold vegetables from roadside carts, ran small tea and snack shops, or earned their living on the sidewalks. Lack of access to bank loans limited their businesses. However, the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme has transformed the lives of these small entrepreneurs.

Through this scheme, more than 112,036 street vendors in Chhattisgarh have been provided loan assistance totaling over 256.94 crore rupees (approximately $2.56 billion). The scheme has not only strengthened their businesses but also provided them with new opportunities for self-reliance and a respectable livelihood.

In response to the severe impact on livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic, the central government launched the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVN) scheme on June 1, 2020. Its objective is to provide unsecured working capital loans to street vendors in urban areas to help them restart and expand their businesses. The scheme's key feature is that it does not require any collateral. Beneficiaries who repay their loans on time have the opportunity to receive higher loan amounts in the next phase.

Under the scheme, loans are provided to beneficiaries in phases. The first phase provides loans up to ₹10,000, the second phase provides loans up to ₹20,000, and the third phase provides loans up to ₹50,000. This means that working capital loans ranging from a minimum of ₹10,000 to a maximum of ₹50,000 can be obtained under this scheme. Only beneficiaries who make timely repayments are eligible for the next phase.

The PM Svanidhi scheme benefits small businesses that provide goods and services on the roadside or in public places. These include vegetable and fruit vendors, tea, snack, and fast food vendors, paan shop owners, textile and ready-made garment vendors, shoe and slipper vendors, book and stationery vendors, flower and puja material vendors, mobile accessories vendors, barbers, cobblers, and self-employed individuals providing laundry services, among many other small businesses.

The impact of the scheme is steadily increasing in Chhattisgarh. Thousands of street vendors have been provided loan assistance in districts such as Durg, Raipur, Bilaspur, Korba, Raigarh, and Dhamtari. Against a state-level sanctioned amount of ₹267.22 crore, over ₹256.94 crore has been disbursed, benefiting over 1.12 lakh beneficiaries.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai stated that the PM SVANidhi Yojana is not merely a loan distribution program, but a comprehensive campaign to connect small entrepreneurs with the formal banking system. This is strengthening the financial position of street vendors, increasing their income, and enabling them to build a better future for their families. Today, thousands of street vendors in Chhattisgarh's cities and towns are taking their businesses to new heights with the help of this scheme. The Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi Yojana has truly become a means of providing financial support to the hardworking people who, through their hard work, drive the urban economy.

The School Education Department has issued strict instructions: complete repair work by June 15th, and schools will be made print-rich and attractive.

Raipur, Chhattisgarh: With the start of the new academic session, the state government is ensuring a clean, beautiful, and quality environment for students. In accordance with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), the prestigious Shala Pravesh Utsav 2026 will be held across the state starting June 16, 2026. In this regard, Dr. Kamalpreet Singh, Secretary of the School Education Department, has issued detailed guidelines from the Ministry's Mahanadi Bhawan (Nava Raipur).

Munadi will be done in villages and cities, emphasis on public participation

To make the Entrance Festival a festive event, extensive publicity will be given. Public announcements will be made in villages and urban wards. Awareness will be raised through banners, posters, and rallies. Active participation of local public representatives, school development committees, and parents will be ensured.

The department has directed that buildings, campuses, and classrooms be thoroughly cleaned and any necessary repairs be made before schools reopen. Repairs to buildings that require repair must be completed by June 15, 2026, to ensure children have an attractive and print-rich environment (equipped with educational images and wall information).

Return of school dropout children and direct admission to the next class

The Education Department has developed a well-organized framework to facilitate the admission process. For Class 1, children will be admitted directly to schools after receiving a list of students from Anganwadi centers. For Class 6, students who have passed Class 5 will be enrolled in Class 6 by obtaining a list of students and their TC (transfer certificate) from primary schools. Special emphasis will be placed on finding and reintegrating school dropouts into the mainstream. Furthermore, instructions have been given to ensure 100% attendance of students and teachers in schools and to expedite the resolution of pending teacher cases. All subject teachers will also be required to prepare an academic roadmap for the next three months.

Free books, uniforms and bicycles will be provided.

Newly admitted children arriving at school during the celebration will be warmly welcomed with a tilak (a mark of the forehead). Free textbooks, school uniforms, and bicycles will be distributed to eligible students on this occasion. Promising students who top board and local examinations and outstanding parents will also be honored. The local community, health workers, self-help groups, and retired employees will be involved in this campaign. Interested citizens can also donate materials such as slates, pencils, notebooks, compass boxes, and school bags to the children.

Organized using local resources

The School Education Department has clarified that no separate budget will be allocated for the School Admission Festival. It will be organized using resources already available in the districts. For the smooth conduct of the program, the Joint Director, District Education Officer, District Mission Coordinator, DIET Principal, Block Education Officer, and other officials have been instructed to regularly inspect schools and provide necessary academic guidance.

Secretary Dr. Kamalpreet Singh has expressed hope that all the officers and employees will make this campaign successful by taking personal interest in the interest of the students, so that the state can achieve better educational results in the new academic session 2026-27.

Chhattisgarh Leads the Nation in Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Garmin), Building the Highest Number of Houses Daily

Government Provides Rs. 26,908 Crore for Housing Construction

Permanent Houses for the Low Income People is the Foundation of Dignity, Security and a Better Future: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur,Guided by the motto “Humne Banayan Hai, Hum Hi Sawareinge,” the Chhattisgarh Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, is rapidly fulfilling the commitment made during its first Cabinet meeting. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), more than 10.60 lakh rural houses have been completed across the state during the last two and a half years.

During the financial year 2025–26, Chhattisgarh completed more than 6 lakh houses, the highest number in the country. The state also ranks first nationally in the number of households completed daily. At present, more than 1,600 houses are being completed every day, reflecting the speed and scale of the housing mission.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai pledged to provide housing for low-income families during the very first Cabinet meeting held a day after assuming office. The state government has been working with determination and urgency to fulfil this commitment.

The government had resolved to construct 18,12,742 houses, including 2,46,215 incomplete houses, 6,33,438 houses from the 2011 permanent waiting list, 8,19,999 houses under the Awas Plus list, and 47,090 houses under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana – Gramin Awas Nyay Yojana.

Along with these houses, the government is also constructing 33,601 houses under the PM JANMAN Yojana in tribal and forest regions and 15,000 additional houses under a special project for Naxal-affected areas. The Panchayat and Rural Development Department has also conducted surveys under Awas Plus 2.0–2024 to identify low-income families living in kutcha houses, and the process of providing housing benefits to these eligible households is progressing rapidly.
To accelerate implementation and turn the dream of permanent housing into reality for low-income families, the government has made Rs. 26,908 crore available for housing construction.

The Panchayat and Rural Development Department not only addressed incomplete houses inherited from the previous government but also approved and completed a large number of new houses for eligible beneficiaries in a mission mode. The pace of implementation is reflected in the fact that between April and October 2025, nearly 2,000 houses were completed every day across the state. Even now, approximately 1,600 houses are being completed daily, making Chhattisgarh the leading state in the country in daily PMAY-G house completions.

To strengthen this ambitious mission and ensure its effective implementation, the state government has actively involved women’s self-help groups. Women associated with these groups are contributing as “Dealer Didis” and “Rani Mistris,” playing a vital role in housing construction activities. Thousands of women have achieved economic empowerment and emerged as “Lakhpati Didis” through their participation in the programme.

The establishment of Atal Digital Suvidha Kendra in villages has further supported the initiative by making small financial transactions easily accessible at the local level. These centres have significantly contributed to the smooth execution of housing construction and service delivery in rural areas.

Government committed to the preservation and promotion of art, culture and cinema – Chief Minister Shri Sai

Announcement of Rs 20 lakh for development works in Gidni Path (Chhura) and Rs 10 lakh for Sen Samaj Bhawan in Dhamtari

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today attended the felicitation ceremony of documentary filmmakers, artists and talented personalities from various fields organized under the joint aegis of the Culture Department and Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation in the capital Raipur.

Addressing the event, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that films are not just a medium of entertainment, but a powerful medium that guides society's thinking, culture, and sensibilities. A good film creates awareness in society and paves the way for positive change. Indian cinema has played a vital role in social change from time to time. He said that films like Mother India have strengthened moral values, sacrifice, and self-respect in Indian society.

The Chief Minister said that Chhattisgarhi cinema has a glorious history. The first Chhattisgarhi film, "Kahi Debe Sandesh," delivered a meaningful message against social evils. Today, Chhaliwood films are breaking new ground in entertainment and commercial success. He added that the expansion of digital and OTT platforms has expanded film access to every segment of society, making it crucial to promote responsible, positive, and value-based cinema.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the state government is continuously striving to give a new identity to the Chhattisgarhi film industry and provide opportunities to local talent. To this end, the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation has been reactivated. He added that in January of this year, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Chitrotpala Film City and Tribal and Cultural Convention Center, to be built at a cost of ₹150 crore, was held. This project will boost film production activities in the state, provide employment opportunities to thousands of artists, technicians, and workers, and give a new impetus to film tourism.

Congratulating the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation and the Culture Department for organizing the event, the Chief Minister said that this is a commendable initiative to promote the state's art, culture, and cinema. Such awards ceremonies not only boost the morale of artists and creators but also inspire the new generation.

The program also featured a special screening of the Chhattisgarhi documentary film "Chhattisgarh ka Bheem - Chintaram," honored in 11 countries. On this occasion, Chief Minister Sai also extended birthday wishes to Ms. Mona Sen, Chairperson of the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation.
On this occasion, he announced Rs. 20 lakh for various development works in Gidni Path, located in the Chhura area of ​​Gariaband district, and Rs. 10 lakh for the construction of the Sen Samaj Bhawan in Dhamtari.

On this occasion, State President of Sarva Sen Samaj, Mr. Puneet Sen, senior film producer Mr. Mohan Sundarani, producers, directors, artists associated with Chhattisgarh film industry and a large number of dignitaries were present.

Chief Minister attended the state level conference of NHM Employees Union.

The role of NHM employees is crucial in providing health services in remote and inaccessible areas of the state.

The Chief Minister gave a big gift to the NHM employees, announcing payment of salary for the 33-day strike period.

Raipur, June 13, 2026. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today presented a significant gift to NHM employees by attending the state-level conference of the Chhattisgarh State National Health Mission (NHM) Employees Union held at the Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur. During the meeting, the Chief Minister announced that NHM employees would be paid their salaries for the 33-day strike period. Describing NHM employees as the "backbone" of health services, he said they play a vital role in providing health services even in remote and inaccessible areas of the state. Shri Sai stated that the contribution of NHM employees in building a healthy Chhattisgarh is incomparable and the government respects their work.
Recalling the role played by health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chief Minister said that when the entire world was in crisis, NHM officers and employees remained engaged in serving the people without caring for their lives. He said that during those difficult times, health workers set an example of humanity that can never be forgotten. He said that even today, in areas of the state lacking roads and transportation facilities, health workers are walking and crossing rivers and streams to provide health services to people. Referring specifically to the "Chief Minister's Healthy Bastar Campaign" being implemented in the Bastar region, the Chief Minister stated that health department teams are reaching out to every village to conduct health checkups, and that approximately 90 percent of the population has been screened so far.
Chief Minister Sai stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the courageous efforts of the security forces, Naxalism has been eradicated in Bastar. New possibilities for development and public welfare are now opening up there, with the expansion of health services being paramount. The Chief Minister detailed the extensive expansion of health services in the state over the last two and a half years. He stated that health services are being strengthened by the opening of new medical colleges and the recruitment of doctors and paramedical staff. The Chief Minister stated that the government stands firmly with health workers and, with everyone's cooperation, a developed and healthy Chhattisgarh will be built. The Chief Minister called upon the employees to continue working with the same dedication and spirit of service.
On this occasion, Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal stated that NHM employees play a crucial role in strengthening the state's health system, from Jashpur to Sukma. He stated that the "Swasth Bastar Abhiyan" is receiving a positive response. While detailing various announcements and facilities for employees, the Health Minister stated that many of their demands have been met, and a transfer policy has also been issued. He added that NHM employees will now be covered under the cashless treatment scheme. He also stated that life insurance has been implemented for NHM employees, providing assistance of ₹6 lakh in case of natural death, ₹1.4 crore in case of accidental death, and ₹1.4 crore in case of permanent disability. Shri Jaiswal stated that maternal and infant mortality rates have steadily declined in the state, and the recruitment process for nurses is underway. To reduce infant and maternal mortality, locations have been selected for 116 new specialized health centers.
After the Chief Minister announced the payment of wages for the strike period during the conference, officials and employees of the NHM Employees Union gave him a grand welcome and felicitated him by garlanding him. MLA Purandar Mishra, Chief Minister's advisor Dr. Dhirendra Tiwari, and NHM Employees Union President Dr. Amit Kumar Miri, along with a large number of health officials and employees, were present at the event.

New Delhi. Inflationary pressures appear to be rising again in the country. Retail inflation rose to 3.93 percent in May, up from 3.48 percent in April. For the first time in five months, retail inflation has risen.

Inflation has approached the Reserve Bank of India's target of 4 percent. The main reasons for this increase are believed to be rising food and transportation costs.

According to the data, retail inflation was 2.74 percent at the beginning of 2026, and steadily increased to 3.93 percent in May. Inflation increased by 0.45 percent in May compared to April, marking the fastest monthly increase in the past 16 months.

Meanwhile, gold and silver prices also saw a significant increase. On June 12, silver prices rose by ₹9,991 in a single day to reach ₹2.43 lakh per kilogram. Meanwhile, 24-carat gold rose by ₹3,018 to reach ₹1.48 lakh per 10 grams.

The government has also issued new orders regarding fuel sales. Consumers will now be limited to a maximum of 200 liters of diesel per day. Furthermore, factories and large commercial consumers will not be allowed to purchase diesel from retail petrol pumps.

They will have to use bulk sale points for their fuel needs. This arrangement has been implemented for an initial period of 90 days.

The government has taken this step in response to unusually high sales at petrol pumps in some areas. Officials say this will help maintain fuel availability for ordinary consumers.

Meanwhile, food safety measures have also intensified. Following complaints of insects found in some Maggi packets, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sought a response from the company and ordered the withdrawal of the affected batch from the market.

Dharamshala. The first match of the three-match ODI series between India and Afghanistan will be played on Saturday at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala. The match will begin at 1:30 PM. This is the first bilateral ODI series between the two teams. India and Afghanistan have previously faced each other in tournaments like the World Cup and Asia Cup.

The Indian team will be without several key players in this match. Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya are out of the team due to injury, while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have been rested. As such, young players are likely to get a chance. Fast bowlers Prince Yadav and Gurnur Brar could each make their ODI debut.

The weather may also play a role in the match. There is a 55 percent chance of rain in Dharamsala on Saturday. Being a mountainous region, the weather here changes rapidly, which could potentially disrupt the match.

India and Afghanistan have played four ODIs so far. India has won three of these matches, while one match ended in a tie. Afghanistan has yet to register an ODI win against India. The two teams last met in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where India won by 8 wickets.

In Virat Kohli's absence, the Indian batting will be led by captain Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul. Shubman has scored 625 runs in ODIs since 2015, while Rohit Sharma has 711 runs in 17 matches.

Kuldeep Yadav will be India's main weapon in the bowling department. He has taken 22 wickets in ODI cricket since 2025. Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh will look to provide early breakthroughs with the new ball.

Afghanistan will rely on players like Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, and Azmatullah Umarzai. Their biggest strength is experienced leg-spinner Rashid Khan, who has taken five wickets in three ODIs against India.

The Dharamsala pitch offers early assistance to fast bowlers, while batsmen find it easier to score runs later in the innings. In the nine ODIs played at the ground, the chasing team has won five times. Both teams will be looking to start the series with a win.