State
Chhattisgarh will create a new identity through tourism: Chief Minister Sai
Raipur,/ Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, Chhattisgarh is now moving rapidly towards creating a new identity for itself on the tourism map of the country. Due to the status of tourism as an industry, investment-friendly policies and the strong will of the state government, the investment possibilities in the tourism and hospitality sector in the state are continuously strengthening. In this connection, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai today attended a high-level meeting at his residence office regarding promotion of tourism, development and expansion of tourist facilities and investment in the hospitality sector. Senior government officials including representatives of the country's prestigious Indian Hotels Company Limited were present in the meeting.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said in the meeting that Chhattisgarh is a priceless land of natural heritage from north to south, where rivers, mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, rich tribal culture and tribal traditions provide a unique identity to Chhattisgarh.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the State Government's objective is to introduce the world to the true beauty, cultural richness, and natural diversity of Chhattisgarh. He added that granting tourism industry status has significantly expanded investment opportunities in the hospitality sector, and that Chhattisgarh can be made an attractive tourist destination by developing better accommodation, transportation, and modern facilities for tourists.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the state is continuously receiving investment proposals and in this sequence, Indian Hotels Company Limited has expressed its desire to invest in Chhattisgarh, which will prove extremely important for the state's tourism sector. He said that such investments will strengthen tourism infrastructure and create new employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth.
During the meeting, representatives of the Indian Hotels Company Limited shared key points of their investment proposal with Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and explained that the company is working on a plan to invest over ₹500 crore in the hospitality sector in Chhattisgarh, which will be implemented soon. The company representatives stated that this investment will strengthen the state's tourism infrastructure and create new employment opportunities.
Finance Minister Shri OP Chaudhary said that the State Government has created a favourable environment for investment and the process of obtaining all necessary permissions has been made simple, transparent and time-bound.
Storm alert in Chhattisgarh today
Raipur. The weather in Chhattisgarh has changed due to the Nautapa season. Rain fell in areas like Ambikapur and Surajpur, bringing relief from the intense heat and heatwave. The Meteorological Department has issued yellow and orange alerts for strong winds and rain in several districts, including Raipur. Temperatures are expected to drop in about 24 hours.
The Meteorological Department reported that there has been no significant change in maximum temperatures over the past 24 hours. A heat wave has occurred in isolated pockets. Starting today, thunderstorms, strong winds, thunderstorms, and rainfall activity are expected to increase across the state.
Golden opportunity for children of labourers to become doctors - 700 seats reserved in ESIC medical colleges
Last date to apply online is 21 June 2026
Admission will be through NEET UG, Labour Department appeals to eligible students to apply
Raipur, A great and golden opportunity has come up for the children of insured workers working in the organized sector of Chhattisgarh to make a career in the field of medical education (MBBS/BDS). The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), under the Ministry of Labor and Employment of the Government of India, has reserved 700 seats for the children of insured workers in its 20 prestigious medical colleges across the country. The last date for online application was May 31, which has been extended to June 21, 2026.
Admission will be given through NEET UG
According to official information from the Labor Commissioner's office, eligible candidates will be selected for these reserved seats through the NEET (UG) exam. The deadline for online applications is June 21, 2026. Students who fall within the eligibility criteria can submit their applications without delay by visiting the Employees' State Insurance Corporation's official website (ESIC).
The main objective of the scheme
Labor Department officials stated that the primary objective of this special reservation policy is to provide talented children from organized sector labor families with better opportunities for higher and quality medical education. This will also enable students from economically disadvantaged or modest backgrounds to fulfill their dreams of becoming doctors without financial constraints.
Important information
Total reserved seats 700 (in 20 ESIC Medical Colleges across the country), selection based on NEET UG merit, last date to apply is June 21, 2026. The official website of Employees' State Insurance Corporation can be visited at esic.nic.in.
Toll Free Helpline Number
For any questions or detailed information, students and parents can contact the toll-free number 1800-11-2526. Guidance can also be sought from the nearest ESIC branch or state-level regional office. The Labor Commissioner's office has made a special appeal to all working colleagues in the state to disseminate information about this ambitious scheme to their eligible and interested children in a timely manner and to take advantage of this golden opportunity by submitting as many applications as possible before the deadline.
Chhattisgarh will create a new identity through tourism: Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai
Our aim is to showcase the true beauty and cultural richness of Chhattisgarh to the world: Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai
Investment in hospitality sector will create new employment opportunities for youth: Chief Minister
Investment in the tourism and hospitality sector is gaining new momentum due to the initiative of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai.
New opportunities open up for Chhattisgarh's tourism sector with investments exceeding Rs 500 crore: Indian Hotels Company Limited shows interest in investing in the hospitality sector
Raipur, Chhattisgarh under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai is now moving ahead rapidly towards creating a new identity for itself on the tourism map of the country. Due to the status of industry to tourism, investment friendly policies and the strong will of the state government, the investment possibilities in the tourism and hospitality sector in the state are continuously strengthening. In this connection, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai today attended a high-level meeting held at his residence office regarding promotion of tourism, development and expansion of tourist facilities and investment in the hospitality sector. Senior officials of the government including representatives of the country's prestigious Indian Hotels Company Limited were present in the meeting.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said in the meeting that Chhattisgarh is a priceless land of natural heritage from north to south, where rivers, mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, rich tribal culture and tribal traditions provide a unique identity to Chhattisgarh.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the State Government's objective is to introduce the world to the true beauty, cultural richness, and natural diversity of Chhattisgarh. He added that granting tourism industry status has significantly expanded investment opportunities in the hospitality sector, and that Chhattisgarh can be made an attractive tourist destination by developing better accommodation, transportation, and modern facilities for tourists.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the state is continuously receiving investment proposals and in this sequence, Indian Hotels Company Limited has expressed its desire to invest in Chhattisgarh, which will prove extremely important for the state's tourism sector. He said that such investments will strengthen tourism infrastructure and create new employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth.
During the meeting, representatives of the Indian Hotels Company Limited shared key points of their investment proposal with Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and explained that the company is working on a plan to invest over ₹500 crore in the hospitality sector in Chhattisgarh, which will be implemented soon. The company representatives stated that this investment will strengthen the state's tourism infrastructure and create new employment opportunities.
Finance Minister Shri OP Chaudhary said that the State Government has created a favourable environment for investment and the process of obtaining all necessary permissions has been made simple, transparent and time-bound.
The meeting also noted that with tourism being granted industry status, avenues for investment in the hospitality sector are wide open. The state government is taking special initiatives to develop the tourism sector through modern infrastructure, high-end facilities, and investment-friendly policies. The state's excellent monsoon conditions, rich natural resources, and investment-friendly policies are creating a strong foundation for tourism development.
At the meeting, Industry Department officials provided detailed information on the investment promotion policy and available incentives, stating that if an investor invests more than ₹500 crore or provides employment to more than 1,000 people, they will be provided additional incentives and special benefits under the "Be-spoke Policy." Furthermore, special attention is being paid to strengthening infrastructure, road connectivity, accommodation facilities, and tourist services to promote tourism.
Chhattisgarh Tourism Board Chairman Neelu Sharma, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Subodh Kumar Singh, Finance Secretary Dr. Rohit Yadav, Investment Commissioner Ritu Sen, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rahul Bhagat, Industry Secretary Rajat Kumar, Tourism Department Secretary Dr. S. Bharathidasan and other senior officials were present in the meeting.
Mangoes will be in abundance at the Agricultural University for the next three days.
Raipur, May 29 (IANS) The Indira Gandhi Agricultural University campus will be abuzz with mangoes for the next three days, and the entire atmosphere will be filled with mangoes. A three-day National Mango Festival is being organized from May 29th to 31st, 2026, under the joint aegis of the Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur, the Directorate of Horticulture and Field Forestry, Chhattisgarh Government, and the Prakriti Ki Or Society. Governor Ramen Deka will inaugurate the National Mango Festival, held at the Agricultural College campus, tomorrow, May 29th, at 4 p.m. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai will preside over the inaugural ceremony. Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam and Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal will be present as special guests. Raipur Rural MLA Motilal Sahu, Dharsiwa MLA Anuj Sharma, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Seed and Agriculture Development Corporation Chandrahas Chandrakar, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh State Farmers Welfare Council Suresh Chandravanshi, and Indira Gandhi Agricultural University Vice Chancellor Dr. Girish Chandel will be present as special guests. More than 250 varieties of mangoes will be showcased at the National Mango Festival. Improved varieties of mango plants and fruit will be available for sale to the public.
More than 250 varieties of mangoes, both domestic and foreign, will be seen.
The National Mango Festival, held from May 29 to 31, 2026, will feature competitions in various categories, including commercial mango varieties produced by farmers, including Dussehri, Langda, Bombay Green, Chaisa, Malda, Himsagar, Sundarja, Kesar, Alphonso, Totapuri, Neelam, Baiganphalli, Pairi, Sindoori, and Fazli. The hybrid varieties competition includes Mallika, Amrapali, Pusa Arunima, Ambika, Ratna, Sindhu, and Arka Puneet. Producers of Hathijul, Noorjahan, Laddu, and Gulab Khas varieties can participate in the specialty varieties competition. The exotic (imported) varieties competition includes Miyazaki, Tommy Atkins, and Golden Nuggets.
Various competitions focused on mangoes will be held at the National Mango Festival.
The Mango Festival is hosting competitions for various mango varieties, which will be attended by mango growers from Chhattisgarh and other states across the country. Mango growers from various states, including Chhattisgarh, will showcase their mango varieties. Competitions for various mango dishes are also being held on this occasion. A mango decoration competition is also being held, in which school and college students, women, and other members of the public can participate by registering. Registration and entry to the festival are completely free. Institutional and individual contestants can also participate in the National Mango Festival. During the Mango Festival, competitions focused on mangoes, such as the Mango Quiz, Mango Fancy Dress, and other competitions, will also be held. A cultural evening will also be held daily. A mango product competition will also be held, where participants can enter with their selections of mango products: nectar/RTS, sherbet, panna, mango pickle, mango chutney, mango papad, mango juice, jam, and sweets. In addition, the National Mango Festival will also host mango-based modeling, bonsai, and mango-based decoration competitions for participants. On this occasion, the Prakriti Ki Or Society will award an improved mango sapling to anyone who brings eleven mango pits. Renowned chef Akanksha Roy will also teach mango recipes.
Secretary of Public Works Department inspected the under construction Kayaghat Bridge and Marine Drive.
Held a meeting with departmental officials and reviewed road and building construction works.
Raipur. Public Works Department Secretary Mr. Mukesh Kumar Bansal today inspected the Kayaghat Bridge and Marine Drive under construction over the Kelo River in Raigarh. He inquired about the progress of both projects from Collector Mr. Mayank Chaturvedi and departmental officials and issued necessary instructions. He urged them to expedite the work with complete quality and complete both ambitious projects within the stipulated timeframe.
The Secretary of the Public Works Department held a meeting with department officials at the Raigarh Circuit House to review ongoing road and building construction projects in the district. He directed that all construction projects be fully functional and sustainable. He urged that quality and timeliness be given top priority in all projects.
After reviewing the ongoing road and bridge construction in all subdivisions of the Public Works Department in Raigarh district, Mr. Bansal reviewed the construction of new buildings. He reviewed the action plans for the transit hostel, medical college hospital building, Prayas residential school building, working women's hostel, and sports complex and urged them to begin work soon.
Raigarh Collector Mr. Mayank Chaturvedi, District Panchayat CEO Mr. Abhijeet Baban Pathare, Public Works Department Chief Engineer Mr. V.K. Bhatpahari, Bilaspur Division Chief Engineers Mr. R.K. Ratre and Mr. G.S. Mandavi, Superintending Engineers Mr. K.P. Sant, Mr. N.K. Lal and Mr. J.P. Tigga along with Executive Engineers and all Sub-Divisional Officers were also present in the meeting.
Chhattisgarh will create a new identity through tourism: Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai
Our aim is to showcase the true beauty and cultural richness of Chhattisgarh to the world: Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai
Investment in hospitality sector will create new employment opportunities for youth: Chief Minister
Investment in the tourism and hospitality sector is gaining new momentum due to the initiative of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai.
New opportunities open up for Chhattisgarh's tourism sector with investments exceeding Rs 500 crore: Indian Hotels Company Limited shows interest in investing in the hospitality sector
Raipur, Chhattisgarh under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai is now moving ahead rapidly towards creating a new identity for itself on the tourism map of the country. Due to the status of industry to tourism, investment friendly policies and the strong will of the state government, the investment possibilities in the tourism and hospitality sector in the state are continuously strengthening. In this connection, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai today attended a high-level meeting held at his residence office regarding promotion of tourism, development and expansion of tourist facilities and investment in the hospitality sector. Senior officials of the government including representatives of the country's prestigious Indian Hotels Company Limited were present in the meeting.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said in the meeting that Chhattisgarh is a priceless land of natural heritage from north to south, where rivers, mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, rich tribal culture and tribal traditions provide a unique identity to Chhattisgarh.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the State Government's objective is to introduce the world to the true beauty, cultural richness, and natural diversity of Chhattisgarh. He added that granting tourism industry status has significantly expanded investment opportunities in the hospitality sector, and that Chhattisgarh can be made an attractive tourist destination by developing better accommodation, transportation, and modern facilities for tourists.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the state is continuously receiving investment proposals and in this sequence, Indian Hotels Company Limited has expressed its desire to invest in Chhattisgarh, which will prove extremely important for the state's tourism sector. He said that such investments will strengthen tourism infrastructure and create new employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth.
During the meeting, representatives of the Indian Hotels Company Limited shared key points of their investment proposal with Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and explained that the company is working on a plan to invest over ₹500 crore in the hospitality sector in Chhattisgarh, which will be implemented soon. The company representatives stated that this investment will strengthen the state's tourism infrastructure and create new employment opportunities.
Finance Minister Shri OP Chaudhary said that the State Government has created a favourable environment for investment and the process of obtaining all necessary permissions has been made simple, transparent and time-bound.
The meeting also noted that with tourism being granted industry status, avenues for investment in the hospitality sector are wide open. The state government is taking special initiatives to develop the tourism sector through modern infrastructure, high-end facilities, and investment-friendly policies. The state's excellent monsoon conditions, rich natural resources, and investment-friendly policies are creating a strong foundation for tourism development.
At the meeting, Industry Department officials provided detailed information on the investment promotion policy and available incentives, stating that if an investor invests more than ₹500 crore or provides employment to more than 1,000 people, they will be provided additional incentives and special benefits under the "Be-spoke Policy." Furthermore, special attention is being paid to strengthening infrastructure, road connectivity, accommodation facilities, and tourist services to promote tourism.
Chhattisgarh Tourism Board Chairman Neelu Sharma, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Subodh Kumar Singh, Finance Secretary Dr. Rohit Yadav, Investment Commissioner Ritu Sen, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rahul Bhagat, Industry Secretary Rajat Kumar, Tourism Department Secretary Dr. S. Bharathidasan and other senior officials were present in the meeting.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin gets new impetus: More than ₹10,021 crore worth of loan sanctioned to 12 states including Chhattisgarh
Work is progressing rapidly under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to realise the resolve of 'permanent house for every poor': Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai
The dream of a pucca house for thousands of rural families in Chhattisgarh will get a new boost.
Raipur/Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai welcomed the release of mother sanction of more than ₹10,021 crore to 12 states including Chhattisgarh under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) and described it as an important decision giving new strength to the resolve of poor welfare, dignified life and Antyodaya.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the resolution of 'permanent house for every poor' is rapidly being realised on the ground and this decision will prove to bring positive change in the lives of rural poor families.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin is not just a housing scheme, but a transformative initiative that creates a new foundation of dignity, security, and self-confidence in the lives of poor families. A pucca house is not just a roof for any family, but a strong foundation for a secure future, a better life, and social dignity. He said that this financial assistance will give new impetus to the "dream of a pucca house" of thousands of rural families in Chhattisgarh, and the benefits of the schemes will be made available to eligible beneficiaries in a timely manner.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the state government is working with commitment to write a new chapter of respect, security and trust in the lives of rural, poor and deprived families. He said that our double engine government is continuously striving to ensure that no eligible family in the state is deprived of basic facilities like housing and that the benefits of schemes reach the last person with transparency and sensitivity.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan for including Chhattisgarh in this important initiative and said that with the coordinated efforts of the Central and State Government, the work of bringing permanent change in the lives of poor families in the state will move forward with greater speed.
Progress of society is possible only through education, organization and culture: Finance Minister O.P. Chaudhary
Raipur, Chhattisgarh's Finance Minister and Minister in-charge of Janjgir-Champa district, Mr. O.P. Choudhary, today participated in social programs organized in Kapan and Nagar Panchayat Baloda of Janjgir-Champa district. During this, he inaugurated the regional meeting cum community hall of All India Agharia Samaj in Kapan. He also dedicated the 'Swarna Mandapam' community hall of the Goldsmith community in Jangalwa Dabri of Baloda.
The new generation will be empowered by education and values
During the event held in Kapan, Finance Minister Mr. Chaudhary encouraged meritorious students by honoring them for their outstanding performance in the Class 10th and 12th examinations. On this occasion, he said, "Education is the most powerful medium for society's progress. Society can only progress by providing better education, values, and opportunities to the new generation." He further stated that such events strengthen unity, positive thinking, and community spirit in society. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi, the country is steadily progressing towards development, and public welfare schemes are being implemented for every section of society.
Solidarity is the real strength of society
Addressing the program, Mr. Saurabh Singh, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation, said that the Agharia community has always been a leader in the fields of education, agriculture, and social development. The true strength of any community lies in its unity. Former Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Ambesh Jangde said that this newly constructed building will prove to be a powerful platform for social and cultural activities.
Inauguration of 'Swarna Mandapam' in Baloda
At the inauguration ceremony of the Swarna Mandapam Community Hall held in the Nagar Panchayat Baloda, the Finance Minister praised the work being done by the Goldsmith community in the field of social development. Member of Parliament Mrs. Kamlesh Jangde, former MP Mrs. Kamala Devi Patel, former MLA Mr. Chunnilal Sahu, along with a large number of public representatives, community officials, and local citizens were present on the occasion.
CG BREAKING: Chhattisgarh officers are in for a treat! IAS, IPS, and IFS officers receive increased DAs…
CG BREAKING: Raipur. The state government has issued an order for 2% DA payment to Chhattisgarh's IAS, IPS, and IFS officers, which they will receive starting January 1st. This has increased the amount to 60%. The state government has previously paid this amount to judicial service and electricity company officials. Meanwhile, state-cadre officials, employees, and pensioners have been demanding payment for the past several days.

Naxalite News: Deadly weapons hidden in the forest! Soldiers destroyed two Naxalite dumps.
NAXALI NEWS: Kanker. Security forces have once again achieved a major success in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district. A large quantity of explosives, including tiffin IEDs and electric detonators, were recovered in two separate operations. A joint team of district police, DRG, BSF, and BDS conducted the operation in the Koylibeda and Partapur police station areas.
According to reports, during a search operation in the forest of Gumchur village on the Kanker-Narayanpur border area, a Naxalite dump hidden underground was recovered. Naxalite literature, 42 303 rifle rounds, 75 7.62 SLR rounds, 21 5.56 rifle rounds, two 7.62mm SLR magazine fillers, and six electric detonators were recovered.
On the same day, a search operation was conducted in the forested and hilly area of the village of Padalmaspi. During the operation, a Naxalite dump was also recovered, from which DRG personnel and the BDS team recovered a country-made pistol, a two-kilogram tiffin IED, a power controller, wires, and batteries. Joint operations are being conducted continuously in the Naxalite-affected border areas of Kanker and Narayanpur.
Anjaneya Shiksha Rath: A harbinger of higher education, a new direction for every youth's dreams
Raipur. Anjaneya University is running the "Anjaneya Shiksha Rath" campaign to increase awareness about higher education in remote and tribal areas of the state, connect youth with job-oriented education, and reduce the rising dropout rate. This campaign is emerging as an effective medium for educational awareness, especially in remote areas of the state, including Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, Kanker, Narayanpur, and Kondagaon. Shiksha Rath is not just a campaign, but a mobile hub of education, inspiration, and opportunities. Reaching villages, this campaign is introducing students, parents, and youth to the importance of higher education, modern curriculum, technical education, and career-building opportunities. The university's goal is to ensure that no youth in the state is excluded from education due to lack of information or resources. Through the campaign, students are being provided with information about various job-oriented and modern courses, including engineering, computer science, pharmacy, management, commerce, science, journalism, film, design, arts, and humanities. Besides, career guidance and counselling is also being provided to the students as per their interest and ability, so that they can choose their future in the right direction.
Anjaneya University is committed to providing quality education through a modern educational system, digital classrooms, state-of-the-art laboratories, experienced faculty, research facilities, and industry-based training. The university's special effort is to ensure that education reaches every individual in society, not just urban areas.
A head constable was caught on camera demanding a bribe; the SSP suspended him as soon as the video went viral.
Bilaspur. Head Constable Shobhit Kevart, posted at Sarkanda police station, has been suspended on charges of demanding a bribe. SSP Rajnesh Singh took action after a video of the incident went viral on social media.
According to the information, the head constable was demanding bribe in exchange for releasing the accused in a case. The victim's family did not want to give bribe to the head constable, so showing prudence, they recorded the video of this entire evil act on their mobile during the conversation and made it viral on the internet. As soon as the video surfaced, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajneesh Singh took the matter seriously and took a strict stand against corruption and suspended the accused head constable Shobhit Kaivartya with immediate effect. The SSP has made it clear that corruption and indiscipline will not be tolerated in the police department under any circumstances.
Two Chhattisgarh IPS officers have been elevated to the rank of IG by the Central Government.
Raipur. Two senior Chhattisgarh cadre IPS officers have been given significant responsibilities by the central government. 2008-batch IPS officers Neetu Kamal and D. Shravan have been empanelled for the post of IG in a central security agency.
It should be noted that IPS officer Neetu Kamal is currently posted on deputation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), while D. Shravan is serving with the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Considering the work ethic and experience of both officers, the central government has selected them for important responsibilities.
In the list released by the Home Ministry, a total of 67 IPS officers from the 2001 to 2008 batches across the country have been empaneled for IG and DIG-level positions. The empanelment of these two Chhattisgarh cadre officers is being considered a major achievement for the state.
CG Crime News: Bullion trader murdered in broad daylight, first robbed of jewellery and then shot
Gaurela Pendra Marwahi: A shooting has caused a sensation in Gaurela Pendra Marwahi, Chhattisgarh. Jewelry businessman Pradeep Soni was killed in the shootout in the crowded market of Kotmi village on Tuesday. Robbers carried out the crime after robbing him. This incident, which occurred in broad daylight, has created an atmosphere of terror in the entire area.
According to the information received, Pradeep Soni (about 50 years old), a resident of Pendra, who was a jewellery businessman (goldsmith) by profession, was setting up his shop in the market of Kotmi village. During this time, miscreants riding on a bike attacked him with the intention of looting. The robbers were so bold that they pointed a gun at the businessman in the crowded market and opened fire. It is being told that the robbers first looted the jewellery (gold and silver ornaments) from the businessman and then shot him.
According to eyewitnesses, the perpetrators of the crime were three men, riding a Pulsar motorcycle. All three fled the scene immediately after the incident. Pradeep Soni was seriously injured by the bullet. He was rushed to the district hospital in a bleeding condition, where a team of doctors began treating him. However, due to the extensive wounds, he succumbed to his injuries during treatmen
This murder and robbery in a crowded market has created chaos in Kotmi Bazaar. Upon receiving information about the incident, senior police officers and teams arrived at the scene. A blockade has been put in place around the district to apprehend the accused, and a vigorous search is underway for the Pulsar-ri
Farmers will not face difficulties in Kharif preparations: Adequate diesel to be provided for agriculture on the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai
Instructions issued to ensure diesel availability as per requirement for tractor ploughing and irrigation pumps
Farmers exempted from restriction on diesel distribution in drums and ‘jerrycans’
Raipur, Ahead of the upcoming ‘kharif’ season, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has taken a major decision in the interest of farmers. After reviewing the availability of petrol and diesel across the state, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure uninterrupted supply of diesel for tractors used in field ploughing and irrigation pumps, so that farming activities are not affected.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said, “Farmers are the backbone of the state’s economy and that no disruption in Kharif season preparations will be tolerated.” Hence, he directed the Food Department, district administrations and oil companies to ensure timely and hassle-free availability of diesel for farmers. The officials and oil companies are also directed to make special arrangements so that farmers can easily access diesel for agricultural activities during the upcoming ‘kharif’ season.
Under the Food Department’s May 22, 2026 order, supply of fuel in drums and jerrycans from the state’s 2,516 petrol pumps has been restricted to prevent misuse of petrol and diesel. However, farmers have been exempted from the restriction to ensure that ploughing, sowing and irrigation work during the Kharif season continues without disruption.
Food Secretary Smt. Reena Baba Saheb Kangale informed that the availability of petrol and diesel in Chhattisgarh is adequate. At present, the state has a stock of 4.3 crore litres of petrol and around 5.55 crore litres of diesel. On May 24, 2026, the state received 23.33 lakh litres of petrol and 62.40 lakh litres of diesel. Regular supply of petrol and diesel as per requirement is continuing in the state.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai assured farmers that the state government is ensuring uninterrupted diesel supply during the ‘Kharif’ season, with district administrations and agencies directed to prevent any disruption in ploughing, sowing and irrigation activities.
Finance Minister OP Chaudhary congratulated the couple dedicated to human service on receiving the Padma Shri.
Raipur, Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary has extended his heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Dr. Ramchandra Godbole and Smt. Sunita Godbole, who have been selflessly serving the remote and Naxal-affected tribal areas of Bastar for more than four decades, on being awarded the Padma Shri 2026.
Finance Minister Mr. Chaudhary said that this honor is not just for two individuals, but for the spirit of service, dedication, and compassion that has brought a ray of hope to thousands of tribal families. He said that Dr. Ramchandra Godbole and Mrs. Sunita Godbole worked to bring healthcare to remote and challenging areas like Bastar, where even basic medical services were unavailable for years. The couple dedicated their entire lives to improving the health of tribal communities, combating malnutrition, and ensuring a better future for their children.
The Finance Minister said that the spirit of service of the Godbole couple is an inspiration for the society and their contribution will continue to inspire the coming generations to serve humanity.
