Raipur. During his visit to Kabirdham district today, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai's heart was filled with affection and joy upon meeting the little children at the Anganwadi center in Kamarkhol, a village dominated by a special backward tribe. Amidst their innocent smiles and pure innocence, it felt as if he had the opportunity to relive his childhood.

During this, he said, "Our government is constantly striving to ensure nutritious food, quality care, and proper early education for the children of the state. I have full confidence that these children, full of curiosity and dreams, will become a strong foundation for the bright future of their families, society, state, and nation in the times to come."

Raipur. On the initiative of Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Shri Arun Saw, the construction of a modern RCC box-drain at a cost of Rs 5.56 crore has been approved to prevent the problem of waterlogging in the main areas of the city. The Urban Administration Department has approved Rs 5.55 crore 87 thousand for the construction of a 3x3 meter modern RCC box-drain from Kundan Palace to the bus stand via Sahare Gali in Bilaspur. Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saw, effective steps are being taken continuously to strengthen the urban infrastructure in the state. Such schemes will not only improve the basic amenities of the cities but will also bring positive changes in the quality of life of the citizens and give a new impetus to urban development.

With the initiative of Deputy Chief Minister Shri Saw, an old demand of Bilaspur is going to be fulfilled, the construction of which will provide relief from the problem of waterlogging in a major area of ​​the city during rainy days. The construction of this drain will provide great relief to Shrikant Verma Marg, Talapara, Magarpara and Hansa Vihar areas which face the problem of waterlogging every year. The construction of this drain will strengthen the drainage system of Bilaspur city with the construction of modern RCC box-drain. To solve the long pending problem of waterlogging, this huge amount has been approved by the Urban Administration Department from the infrastructure head in the financial year 2026-27.

Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao has directed that all work related to the construction of RCC box-drains be completed with complete transparency and quality. He has directed that the work be completed within the timeframe and strict adherence to the Chhattisgarh Works Department Manual and departmental provisions be ensured. To maintain transparency at every stage, geo-tagged photography has been made mandatory, allowing for accurate assessment of the actual progress of the work.

Dr. Basavaraju S., Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department, stated that this project is an important initiative toward a permanent solution to the waterlogging problem in Bilaspur. The department prioritizes quality, transparency, and timeliness in all projects to ensure better amenities for citizens.
Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Arun Saw stated that strengthening drainage, drinking water, and other basic amenities in urban areas is our priority. Projects like the RCC box-drain construction in Bilaspur are important steps toward a permanent solution to citizens' problems. We have directed all officials to ensure quality and timely completion of the work, so that the common citizens can truly benefit.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai participated in an important meeting of district officials at the BJP office in Balrampur on Monday and took information about organizational activities and called upon them to ensure their role in making the government schemes reach every needy person. During this, he said that our resolve is to make every citizen of the state strong and prosperous by strengthening the organization and walking on the path of service, good governance and development. A large number of BJP workers from the district were present on this occasion.

Raipur. During Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai's visit to Jashpur district, a very cordial and encouraging scene was witnessed in village Bhainsamuda, when he suddenly reached the school premises of Government Primary School Chandagarh. As soon as he reached the school, his eyes fell on the children playing cricket in the field, whose enthusiasm and excitement was worth seeing. This energy of the children attracted the Chief Minister so much that without any formality, he directly went to the field and started playing cricket with them. Seeing the Chief Minister playing among them, the happiness of the children doubled and the entire atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and joy.

During this interaction, Chief Minister Sai interacted with the children casually, inquiring about their daily routine, studies, and interest in sports. He asked them whether they played regularly and which sports they particularly enjoyed. During this cordial interaction with the children, he also sought to understand the state of sports facilities in rural areas and what resources were needed.

The Chief Minister also spoke with Prakash Thakur, a player present on the field, to learn about his experiences and aspects of sports, which gave him insight into the actual state of sports activities at the local level. Observing the children's enthusiasm and interest in sports, Chief Minister Sai directed the Collector to provide the necessary cricket kits and sports uniforms to school students. He emphasized that children in rural areas should also have access to better sports facilities so they can properly develop their skills and gain opportunities for advancement. This approach of the Chief Minister served as a positive initiative towards the balanced development of sports and education.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Sai also spoke with the village head, Mr. Roshan Pratap Singh, to inquire about the village's status, ongoing development projects, and local needs. He urged that necessary initiatives be taken for the village's overall development, ensuring balanced progress in the areas of education and sports, along with infrastructure. The Chief Minister's surprise visit wasn't limited to an administrative inspection; his spontaneous and inspiring moments spent with the children created a special atmosphere of enthusiasm and trust among the villagers. This scene symbolized that when the government reaches out to the grassroots and communicates directly, it not only reviews schemes but also infuses positive energy and inspiration into people's lives.

Raipur. On the occasion of Good Governance Festival, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai presented an impressive glimpse of sensitive and people-centric governance by reaching Chandagarh, a remote forest village in Jashpur district. As soon as the Chief Minister's helicopter landed in Chandagarh, the villagers gave him a grand welcome with enthusiasm and warmth. The Chief Minister directly reached Bhainsamuda village of Pathalgaon development block, where he prayed at Bajrang Bali temple and prayed for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of the state. After this, a public meeting was held in the cool shade of a huge banyan tree in the middle of the village.

Chief Minister Sai stated that Good Governance Festival is being held from May 1st to June 10th, and its objective is to bring the government to the doorstep of the people, so that problems can be resolved on the spot. The Chief Minister stated that he has come today to listen to the public's concerns and will ensure timely resolution of the villagers' problems. He inquired from the villagers about various basic amenities, including the availability of rations, salt, sugar, drinking water, electricity, and problems related to the Patwari, and directed officials to provide prompt solutions. 

During the Janchaupal, Chief Minister Sai had a cordial conversation with Lakhpati Didi, Mrs. Sumila Korwa and Mrs. Pushpalata Chauhan, and praised their work. He learned that women from women's self-help groups are becoming self-reliant through activities such as brick making, grocery stores, and BC Sakhi. The Chief Minister informed that 8 lakh Lakhpati Didi have been created in the state so far, while under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, this number has increased to more than 3 crore across the country, which is a major change towards women's empowerment.

Chief Minister Sai made several important announcements for the development of the villages of Chandagarh and Bhainsamuda, including the construction of a community hall, a mini stadium, a concrete road, and the provision of cricket kits and uniforms for children. He also directed officials to select a suitable site for the community hall. During his visit, Chief Minister Sai also reviewed the on-the-ground implementation of various public welfare schemes. Kalavati Chauhan reported that all eligible beneficiaries in the village are receiving the benefits of the Mahatari Vandan Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, a fact the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction with.
Chief Minister Sai inquired about the status of tendu leaf collection and discussed the benefits of the Charan Paduka Yojana. He informed that the Shri Ram Lalla Darshan Yojana and the Chief Minister Teerth Darshan Yojana are connecting the public religiously and socially in the state. He also stated that through the Atal Digital Suvidha Kendras established in the Gram Panchayats, various services, including income, caste, and residence certificates, are now available at one place, and villagers are also benefiting from online banking and other services.

During the Janchaupal, the Chief Minister listened seriously to the demands and problems of the villagers and gave clear instructions to the officials to ensure that all the problems are resolved on priority. He said that the real meaning of good governance is that the government schemes reach the last person and the people get their benefits on time. On this occasion, MLA Pathalgaon Smt. Gomti Sai, Principal Secretary Subodh Kumar Singh, Public Relations Commissioner Rajat Bansal, Collector Rohit Vyas, Senior Superintendent of Police Dr. Lal Umed Singh and a large number of villagers were present.

Raipur. Today, Chhattisgarh's Finance Minister, Mr. OP Choudhary, and Health Minister, Mr. Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, performed rituals at the Radha Krishna Temple in Raigarh, praying for the well-being, peace, and prosperity of the people of the state. Both ministers visited the temple and prayed for the state's progress and public welfare.

On this occasion, MP Shri Radheshyam Rathiya, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Medical Services Corporation Limited Shri Deepak Mhaske along with other public representatives and dignitaries were present.

00 Observed the construction work of Bhoramdev Corridor, gave necessary instructions
Raipur. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, MP Santosh Pandey visited the historic Bhoramdev Temple and offered prayers. They performed puja and aarti in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple and prayed for the state's prosperity, well-being and public welfare.

After this, everyone inspected the under-construction corridor in Bhoramdev. Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sharma provided necessary guidance for ensuring quality and timely completion of the work. District Panchayat President Mr. Ishwari Sahu, District Panchayat Members Mr. Ram Kumar Bhatt, Mr. Virendra Sahu, former Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Siyaram Sahu, former Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Motiram Chandravanshi, Mr. Lokchand Sahu, and other public representatives were also present.

Chhattisgarh Tourism Board's Baiga Ethnic Resort Praised
Raipur. Chhattisgarh Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, during his stay at the Baiga Ethnic Resort (Sarodha Dadar), operated by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, lauded the state's emerging tourist destinations. Minister Kashyap, who arrived to inaugurate the Bhoramdev Sanctuary, spent a day overnight there and enjoyed the breathtaking natural scenery of Sarodha Dadar, including the Chilfi Valley. Kashyap stated that Sarodha Dadar's atmosphere is so relaxing, peaceful, and refreshing that even a day's stay here feels inadequate. He emphasized the location's perfect
for
meditation. He specifically noted that the climate and natural surroundings are ideal for mental peace, yoga, and meditation. Praising the efforts of the Tourism Department, he stated that Chhattisgarh is now establishing its unique identity on the national tourism map due to innovation and sustainable development. Minister Kashyap stated that the development of sites like Sarodha Dadar is not only promoting tourism but also providing a global platform for local tribal culture and lifestyle.
Praising the Baiga Ethnic Resort,
Minister Kashyap said that tourists visiting the resort experience a unique and vibrant experience of traditional tribal lifestyle in the lap of nature. At the end of his stay, he indicated that he would soon visit this serene and picturesque destination again. This stay is considered an important milestone in the development of tourism in the region.

Raipur. Farmers in Chhattisgarh are now moving beyond traditional paddy cultivation to cultivate flowers, earning better incomes. Anandram Sidar, a farmer from Kodkel village in the Lalungha development block of Raigarh district, has emerged as an example. He has grown from a mere 22,000 rupees in profits to an income of 3 lakh rupees by cultivating marigold flowers.

Previously, Anand Ram cultivated traditional rice. He earned a total of 31,000 rupees from his 10 quintals of produce, leaving him with only 22,000 rupees after costs. This low income left him financially stressed. During this time, under the guidance of the Horticulture Department, he began cultivating flowers.

Taking advantage of the National Horticulture Mission's "Marigold Area Expansion Scheme," Anandram began cultivating marigold on 0.400 hectares of land. The department provided him with training on improved seeds, fertilizer management, and modern techniques. As a result of this scientific cultivation, he produced approximately 44 quintals of marigold flowers in 2025-26.

Anandram earned over 3 lakh rupees thanks to a good market price. This high profit in a short period of time has significantly transformed his financial situation. Now, he is self-reliant and able to provide a better life for his family.

Anand Ram's success has inspired nearby farmers. Many farmers in the area are now turning to marigold and other cash crops instead of paddy. Anand Ram says that while it was initially risky, his fortunes have changed with the support of the department and the right technology.

Floriculture is rapidly expanding in the district due to the active initiatives and plans of the Horticulture Department. The department is continuously providing training and technical assistance to farmers, which is giving a new direction to the rural economy.

Raipur. The first phase of the 2027 Census of India has begun in Chhattisgarh. This massive house listing and census campaign, which began on May 1st, will continue until May 30th, 2026. As part of this campaign, 51,300 enumerators and approximately 9,000 supervisors have been deployed across the state, going door-to-door to gather information.

This census is being conducted entirely
digitally, making it unique. Enumerators are entering data through a mobile app, answering 33 questions related to housing conditions, household amenities, and assets. This will increase transparency and accuracy in data collection, while also speeding up the process.

The administration has taken a strict stance on employees missing duty
. Notices have been issued to 44 employees of the Raipur Municipal Corporation who were absent from duty under the Census Act of 1948 and the Civil Conduct Rules. Officials have clarified that negligence or obstruction of census work is a punishable offense.

Enthusiasm was seen even in remote areas.
Encouraging results emerged in several districts on the very first day of the campaign. In Gatam village of Tokapal tehsil in Bastar district, the enumerator set an example by completing the work on the first day despite difficult conditions. Meanwhile, the collector and municipal corporation commissioners also visited the field to review the work and boost the employees' morale.

The impact of digital literacy was also evident in the public participation in self-enumeration, with
over 1.49 lakh households conducting their own enumeration through the web portal between April 16 and 30. This is being seen as a positive sign of public participation.

The Census Directorate has clarified that citizens' personal information will be completely
secure. This data is confidential under the Census Act of 1948 and cannot be used for any tax, police investigation, or judicial proceedings.

The administration has appealed to citizens for cooperation
. The administration has urged people to provide accurate and precise information to enumerators whenever they visit their homes. This is not just a survey, but an important contribution to the nation's development and planning.

Raipur. Chhattisgarh has received significant relief under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. A total of ₹1,333 crore has been approved, taking into account the state's demand and outstanding liabilities. This will directly benefit millions of rural labor families.

Of the approved amount, more than ₹800 crore has been released for wage payments. These payments are being made transparently to workers' bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). To date, ₹212 crore in wages has been deposited into the accounts of workers in the state, with the remaining amount to be transferred soon in a phased manner.

The government believes that this payment will not only strengthen the economic well-being of workers but also boost the rural economy. Timely payment of wages will increase purchasing power in rural areas and accelerate local economic activity.

Under the ongoing "More Village More Water Maha Abhiyan" in the state, water conservation and livelihood-related projects are being prioritized. Aajeevika Dabri, Nava Tariya, and other water conservation projects are being approved on a large scale through MNREGA. These projects are helping to improve groundwater levels, expand irrigation facilities, and increase farmers' incomes.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the state government is giving top priority to rural development. Continuous efforts are being made to create employment through MNREGA, develop rural infrastructure, and provide financial support to needy families.

Experts believe that this financial approval from the central government will give new impetus to development work in Chhattisgarh. This initiative will also prove to be a significant step towards improving the living standards of workers and increasing sustainable livelihood opportunities in villages.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai has taken a firm stance on the issue of a recently constructed concrete road in the Nagar Panchayat of Dadri in Bemetara district, which has been damaged within a short period of time. He categorically stated that any negligence in the quality of development work will not be tolerated.

Taking the matter seriously, the Chief Minister spoke with Bemetara Collector Pratistha Mamgain over the phone and directed a timely investigation into the entire matter. He said that the road should be technically inspected to assess its actual condition. He also called for a detailed investigation of the materials used in construction, the quality of the work, and the monitoring system.

The Chief Minister gave clear instructions that if the investigation reveals any deficiencies in quality, violations of standards, or irregularities of any kind, strict action should be taken against the concerned contractor and responsible officials. He also stressed the need to quickly rebuild the damaged road to ensure safe and smooth travel for the public.

He also directed that other ongoing construction projects in the district be specially reviewed to prevent a similar situation from arising elsewhere. The Chief Minister stated that ensuring quality, transparency, and accountability is the primary responsibility of the administration, and that compromises on this front will not be tolerated at any level.

Chief Minister Sai stated that accountability will be fixed and action will be necessary against those found negligent in public works. He directed officials to ensure the reliability and sustainability of development projects through constant monitoring, field inspections, and a robust quality control mechanism.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the government's intention is clear—quality and transparency are the top priorities in every development project. It is noteworthy that he has directed stricter monitoring of construction projects across the state so that citizens can benefit from safe and reliable infrastructure

Mahasamund : A sensational case of major LPG gas theft has come to light in the district. The owner of Thakur Petrochemicals is accused of stealing and selling 90 metric tons of LPG gas worth approximately ₹1.5 crore. An employee of the company has been arrested, while the owner and director are absconding. The entire incident occurred in the Singhora police station area.

In fact, in December 2025, the police seized six gas capsule trucks carrying 90 metric tons of LPG. Due to the lack of security at the police station and the potential for an accident, the administration handed these trucks over to the company for safekeeping. However, taking advantage of this trust, the company management hatched a conspiracy to steal the gas.

The gas was emptied at the plant and then sold in the market.
According to information, on March 30, 2026, the trucks were handed over to the company in the presence of the Food Department. The trucks were then taken to the plant in Abhanpur, Raipur. Here, the gas was emptied into the plant's bullet tanks within eight days. After filling the tanks, the remaining gas was filled into private tankers and cylinders and sold in the market.

It is alleged that the gas was filled into domestic and commercial cylinders and sold to various agencies without proper bills. Later, the company informed the administration that the gas had leaked.

Investigation reveals a major scam.
Police and experts concluded that such a large gas leak was impossible. Documents also revealed that the company had sold significantly more gas than it had purchased. In April, sales of 107 tons were recorded, compared to 47 tons purchased, confirming the scam.

Attempt to destroy evidence, staff arrested
During the investigation, the company has also been accused of destroying documents and concealing records. Police have arrested company employee Nikhil Vaishnav, while the main accused, Santosh Singh Thakur, and other directors remain at large. Their search is ongoing.

Police have seized seven tankers, four bullet tanks, 100 cylinders, and numerous documents in connection with the case. Officials say the entire network is being investigated and the absconding suspects will be arrested soon.

Raipur. In light of the recent tragic cruise ship accident in Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai has ordered a comprehensive review of the safety arrangements for all water sports activities in Chhattisgarh and has issued instructions to strictly adhere to safety standards. He has clearly stated that any laxity or negligence regarding public safety will be completely unacceptable.

Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai directed the collectors of all other districts including Dhamtari and Korba to ensure immediate testing (safety audit) of safety standards at the places where water sports activities are being conducted and to ensure strict adherence to the prescribed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

Chief Minister Sai directed that regular technical inspections of equipment used at all related water sports venues be ensured, trained and skilled human resources be deployed, and an appropriate emergency management system be activated to effectively deal with any emergency. Instructions were also given to ensure adequate availability and working condition of rescue equipment, life jackets, and other essential safety resources.

Strict instructions from CM Sai

He also directed the collectors to continuously monitor these arrangements and in case of violation of safety standards at any level, fix accountability of the concerned officers-operators and ensure punitive action as required.

The Chief Minister said that the state government gives top priority to the safety of citizens and tourists. Therefore, it is essential that water sports activities are conducted in a safe, well-organized, and standardized manner, ensuring effective management of potential risks.

Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai directed that the implementation of all these arrangements be regularly reviewed and reports submitted to the state government from time to time. He said that only by working with vigilance, sensitivity, and accountability can we ensure the safety of public life.

CM SAI ORDER : Safety alert issued on water sports across Chhattisgarh

Raipur. The tragic Jabalpur cruise ship accident shook the entire nation, and now the Chhattisgarh government is on full alert. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has taken a major and strict decision regarding water sports and boating activities.

The Chief Minister has clearly stated that any compromise with safety will be completely unacceptable. Orders have been issued to conduct immediate safety audits in all districts, ensure strict adherence to established SOPs, and ensure that everything from life jackets to rescue equipment is in working order.

The CM also made it clear that wherever negligence is found, direct action will be taken against the officers and employees responsible. Collectors have been instructed to ensure constant monitoring and reporting. After the nine deaths in the Jabalpur accident, the Chhattisgarh government appears to be in no mood to take any risks.

Secretary, Minerals Department, Shri P. Dayanand held a major virtual meeting with the Collectors of 11 major sand supplying districts.

There should be no shortage in the supply of sand in the state, sand should be made available to the general public at reasonable rates by producing it as per the capacity from the approved mines.

The government is strictly implementing the zero tolerance policy against illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals.

Royalty-free sand supply to PM Awas Yojana beneficiaries must be strictly followed, and illegal activities must not be carried out under its guise.

Raipur, Chhattisgarh: In line with its commitment to good governance and transparency, the Chhattisgarh government is strictly enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining, transportation, and storage of minerals. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai has taken a firm stance on this issue, making it clear that no leniency will be shown in any case involving revenue loss or illegal activity. He has also directed the government to ensure the supply of sand to the public at reasonable rates.

Following the Chief Minister's instructions, the Mineral Department is continuously active and is being reviewed periodically. In this regard, on April 30, 2026, the Chief Minister's Secretary and Secretary of the Mineral Department, P. Dayanand, held a video conference with the collectors of the 11 major sand-supplying districts in the state—Raipur, Bilaspur, Balodabazar, Janjgir-Champa, Sakti, Mahasamund, Gariaband, Dhamtari, Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Baikunthpur, Balrampur, and Kanker—to thoroughly review the mine operations.

Clear instructions were given at the meeting that there should be no shortage of sand supply in the state. All approved sand mines should ensure production is up to their capacity, and sand should be available to the public at reasonable rates. Strict compliance with the order to provide royalty-free sand to beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana should be ensured, so that illegal mining is not encouraged under the guise of this.

Mineral Secretary Mr. Dayanand, while reviewing the sand mine auction process, found that more than 100 percent of the auctions had been completed in Gariaband, Kanker, and Janjgir-Champa districts, while expected progress had not been achieved in Dhamtari, Bilaspur, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Baikunthpur. Expressing strong displeasure, he directed the concerned collectors to immediately ensure the auction of as many mines as possible. The Secretary also directed that the mining plan and environmental clearance process for the auctioned mines be completed on priority and that weekly reviews be mandatory. Additionally, areas of illegal mining should be identified and continuous action should be taken, and complaints and media reports should be taken seriously and immediate action should be ensured.

He clearly stated that if the Central Flying Squad of the Mineral Department has to take action against illegal mining in any district, it reflects the negligence of the concerned district administration and their lack of seriousness regarding the matter. The Secretary stated that the Chief Minister has previously expressed strong displeasure over such negligence.

At the end of the meeting, Mineral Secretary Mr. P. Dayanand categorically stated that the Chief Minister's instructions should be strictly followed. If illegal mining is ongoing in any district of the state and evidence of illegal excavation is found through drone survey or investigation by the Central Flying Squad team, the District Collector and Mineral Officers will be held accountable and action will be taken, for which they will be personally responsible.

irrigation to 4,933 hectares across 13 villages — Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Jashpur set to emerge as a national model for modern pressurized irrigation systems

Raipur,

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday inaugurated the construction work of the Bagia ‘pressurized lift irrigation system’ under the Samriddhi Command Area Development and Water Management Modernization (M-CAD) scheme at his native village Bagia in Jashpur district.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Bagia Samriddhi M-CAD scheme is not merely an irrigation project, but a strong symbol of the vision of “more crop per drop.” Its successful implementation, Jashpur district will become a model for modern pressurized irrigation systems in the country and will open new avenues of prosperity for farmers.

He said that under this project, a modern pressurized pipe irrigation network will be developed in place of the traditional canal system. The underground pipeline system will prevent water wastage, improve water-use efficiency, and eliminate the need for land acquisition. Farmers who have so far depended on rainfall will now be able to access sufficient water for irrigation throughout the year under this scheme.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Bagia Samriddhi M-CAD scheme will not only modernize the irrigation system but will also take agriculture forward in a technology-driven, sustainable, and profitable direction. This project has the potential to establish Jashpur as a model Agri-irrigation district at the national level. He added that this initiative will pave the way for taking farmers to new heights of prosperity, self-reliance, and dignity.

It is noteworthy that this project is being implemented in the Bagia cluster of Kunkuri development block through the Bagia Barrage-cum-Pressurized Lift Irrigation Scheme on the Maini River. Under this, irrigation facilities will be provided to about 4,933 hectares of land across 13 villages, including Bagia, Uskuti, Rajoti, Sujibahar, Chongribahar, Bansbahar, Dokda, Sikaria, Patratoli, Gahiradohar, Bihabal, Nariyardand, and Dhududand.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that among the 34 M-CAD projects approved in 23 states of the country, the Bagia cluster of Chhattisgarh is the only selected project. For this, an amount of Rs 95.89 crore has been approved by the Government of India, while the total cost of the project is approximately Rs 119 crore.

On this occasion, Union Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu said that this scheme will pave the way for the overall development of the region and provide a stable source of income for farmers. Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam described it as a “boon for the future” for farmers and said that it will give new momentum to the rural economy.

State Nodal Officer of the Samriddhi scheme Shri Alok Agrawal informed that the M-CAD programme was launched in April 2025 by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He stated that the project will be completed within the next six months, and its operation and maintenance will be handled by the contractor for the initial five years, after which it will be managed by the Water Users’ Committee. Active participation of women has also been ensured in this committee.