0 Cabinet Minister Agarwal and Verma flagged off the special train at Raipur railway station and sent off the pilgrims

Raipur. A wonderful atmosphere of devotion and enthusiasm was seen at Raipur railway station when Cabinet Minister Shri Rajesh Agarwal and Shri Tankram Verma flagged off a special Ramlala Darshan train to Ayodhya for a group of 850 pilgrims. The whole station echoed with the shouts of Jai Shri Ram and the joy of seeing Lord Shri Ram for the first time was evident on the faces of the devotees.

There was an atmosphere of great enthusiasm among the pilgrims to go to Ayodhya. Most of the devotees were visiting Ramlala for the first time and thanked Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai and Tourism Minister Shri Rajesh Agarwal for this opportunity. Tourism Minister Mr. Agarwal met the travelers intimately and wished them well and also reviewed their facilities while discussing about the journey. This pilgrimage will provide an opportunity to visit Ramlala in Ayodhya as well as visit Baba Vishwanath in Kashi. The state government through IRCTC and Chhattisgarh Tourism Board has made good arrangements for all necessary arrangements including food, accommodation, medical and tour. During the journey, the officials and staff were seen to be ready to help the devotees and the passengers were also satisfied with the arrangements.

About 44,200 devotees have availed the benefit of this journey through 52 trains under the Ramlala Darshan Yojana of Sai Govt. As the first train of the financial year 2026-27, 850 pilgrims have departed from Raipur and so far 45,050 pilgrims in a total of 53 trains have been a part of this holy pilgrimage. Chhattisgarh is considered the birthplace of Lord Shri Ram and the people here address him as Vancha Ram, which shows the deep spiritual connection of the people of the state towards Lord Shri Ram. Respecting this faith, the Sai government is providing the opportunity for pilgrims to visit Ayodhya and Kashi for the third consecutive year. This special train that departs from Raipur railway station is not only the beginning of a journey, but also a powerful expression of faith, culture and belief of Chhattisgarh.
On this occasion Raipur Zilla Panchayat Chairman Naveen Agarwal, Tourism Board MD Vivek Acharya, DGM Smt. Poonam Sharma, officers and employees of Chhattisgarh Tourism Board and IRCTC and local public representatives were also present.

CII Chhattisgarh is playing a vital role in promoting industrial development and investment in the state of Chhattisgarh.

Raipur | The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) continues to play a key role in promoting industrial development and investment in the state of Chhattisgarh. It is working closely with the state government in alignment with development priorities and the national agenda of competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusive growth. Addressing the media, Chairman Bajrang Goyal expressed his commitment to further strengthen CII's engagement in the state. For the year 2026-27, CII Chhattisgarh has formulated a focused 10-point agenda, based on three key pillars: ease of doing business, infrastructure development, and skilling and inclusion, with a special emphasis on implementation and measurable results.

The 10-point agenda is as follows:

1. Policy Advocacy and Industry Representation

2. Simplification and digitization of approvals

3. MSME and Rural Enterprise Promotion

4. Industrial Infrastructure and Cluster Development

5. Rural Infrastructure and Connectivity

6. Water, Irrigation and Sustainable Resource Use

7. Social Infrastructure (Housing, Health and Education)

8. Skill Development and Youth Employability

9. Women Empowerment and Inclusive Growth

10. Inclusive Growth (SC/ST, Minorities and Economically Weaker Sections)

To effectively implement this agenda, CII Chhattisgarh has adopted a structured approach, including the formation of dedicated panels and working groups. Specifically, nine sectoral panels have been formed for the year 2026-27, covering sectors such as finance, agriculture, forest and allied, policy advocacy, startups, logistics and warehousing, and MSMEs. Additionally, this initiative will be strengthened through a collaborative review mechanism, industry-government collaboration platforms, and pilot projects in selected districts.

Over the last two years, CII Chhattisgarh has played an active role in the formulation of the Chhattisgarh Industrial Development Policy 2024-30, which involved extensive consultations and presented a detailed draft based on priority and emerging sectors.

CII Chhattisgarh is committed to being a strong bridge between industry and government, a catalyst for economic progress, and a proponent of inclusive growth.

Building on this momentum, CII Chhattisgarh will organize the "Bastar Conclave: Awakening the Sleeping Giant of India" in Raipur in May 2026, aimed at highlighting the region's investment potential. Additionally, keeping in mind the state's growing steel sector and future requirements, CII will organize the India Steel Summit 2026 in August 2026, which will provide an important platform for discussions on industry trends, sustainability, and competitiveness.

During the press brief, Chairman Bajrang Goyal, Vice Chairman Anand Singhania and State Office Head Shweta Songen were present.

He informed that CII Chhattisgarh shared a 10-point agenda for 2026-27, aimed at accelerating industrial development and inclusive growth. CII Chhattisgarh will also promote ease of doing business, infrastructure and skilling initiatives; Bastar Conclave, Infra Expo and India Steel Summit will also be organised in 2026.

Raipur. Once untouched by development due to Naxalite activities, Hetarakasa village in the Koylibeda development block is today writing a new story of change. While access to roads, communications, and basic amenities was once difficult, the government's anti-Naxal campaign and effective implementation of schemes have now brought visible progress to the village.
Implementation of schemes in this area was challenging for years due to Naxalite influence. Due to the difficult terrain and security concerns, even basic amenities like drinking water were not available to the village. Villagers relied on wells and drains, and faced considerable struggles for water during the summer. But now, the situation has completely changed. Through the central government's Jal Jeevan Mission and the state government's efforts, tap connections have been provided to 63 households in Hetarakasa village. Clean drinking water is now regularly available to every household in the village through two solar pump-powered water tanks. Village resident Rajnath Potai explains that previously, people had to travel long distances to fetch water, which was time-consuming and labor-intensive. Now, with water available at home throughout the day, daily life has become much easier. Savita Ben, a village woman, says that previously, due to water scarcity, this task used to consume a large portion of her day. However, now, tap water has provided relief and allows her to devote time to other tasks.
Positive impact on health and livelihoods:
The availability of clean drinking water has reduced waterborne diseases in the village. Villagers are now cultivating vegetable gardens around their homes, providing them with nutrition and additional income by growing crops like tomatoes, chilies, and amaranth. The successful implementation of these schemes in this remote, Naxal-affected area is considered a major achievement for the administration. Villagers have expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and the district administration. Today, Hetarakasa village is proving that when security, trust, and development go hand in hand, change is possible even in the most remote and challenging areas.

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00 Under Amrut Mission 2.0, tertiary treatment plant of 20 MLD capacity got approval, river will be pollution-free
Raipur. Hasdeo river, considered to be the lifeline of energy capital Korba, will now flow freely again after getting free from the dark shadow of pollution. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's ambitious 'Amrut Mission 2.0' scheme has added a historic achievement towards environmental protection in Korba. Due to the efforts of Chhattisgarh government, the Government of India has approved an amount of Rs 165 crore for scientific treatment of polluted water of the city.

For years, contaminated sewage from the city's 11 major drains was directly flowing into the Hasdeo River, affecting its purity. To provide a permanent solution to this serious problem, a state-of-the-art tertiary treatment plant with a capacity of 20 MLD is being established. Approximately 33 million liters of contaminated water per day will be intercepted before it reaches the river and treated using state-of-the-art technology. This will significantly reduce river pollution and restore its clean water. Once the project is complete, Korba will join the select group of 12 cities that have such an advanced and scientific water purification system.
This project is not limited to cleaning the river, but will also serve as an excellent example of "waste to wealth." Instead of being wasted, millions of liters of treated water will be purchased by NTPC at fixed rates. This will provide clean water to industries, increase municipal revenue, and promote groundwater conservation.
Collector Mr. Kunal Dudawat called this a historic step for Korba district. He said that this scientific solution, developed by the Korba Municipal Corporation in compliance with National Green Tribunal standards, is now about to take shape. The tender process is currently underway, and construction will begin soon. Under AMRUT Mission 2.0, this plant will not only revive the Hasdeo River but also set a new example of water conservation for future generations. Through this, Korba will become a leader in both industrial progress and environmental cleanliness.

Raipur. To further strengthen the ongoing public movement against malnutrition in the state, the 8th Nutrition Fortnight will be organized from April 9 to 23. Organized by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, under Mission Nutrition 2.0, this campaign aims to strengthen the resolve for a "malnutrition-free India" through public participation.
This year, the theme of the fortnight is "Maximizing Brain Development in the First Six Years of Life," which focuses on the importance of nutrition, health, and proper care during a child's early years. According to experts, the first six years of life lay the foundation for a child's physical, mental, and intellectual development, so proper nutrition is crucial during this period.

It is noteworthy that the Nutrition Campaign, which has been underway since 2018, is being promoted as a mass movement, with special emphasis on public awareness and behavior change. In this vein, this year's Nutrition Fortnight will also be organized with community participation at the center.

To ensure the successful implementation of the Nutrition Fortnight, an important meeting of nodal officers from various departments was held at the state level on April 7th at 4 p.m. The meeting was attended by Dr. Renuka Srivastava, Director of the Women and Child Development Department, D.S. Maravi, Joint Director, Shruti Nelkar, and Abhay Dewangan, along with other officials from various departments, including Panchayat and Rural Development, School Education, Urban Administration, Agriculture, Food, AYUSH, Water Resources, and the National Health Mission. Departments were instructed to prepare their own action plans and ensure active participation in the campaign.
During the Nutrition Fortnight, various activities will be organized at all Anganwadi centers across the state. These include health checkups for children and pregnant women, nutrition counseling, Annaprashan (first feeding), Godhbharai (baby shower), awareness programs on hygiene and balanced diets. Special attention will be given to promoting the use of locally available foods and influencing positive changes in nutritional behavior.

In line with the Ministry's guidelines, this campaign will not only ensure the all-round development of children but will also strengthen awareness and a sense of responsibility towards nutrition in society. Through this initiative in Chhattisgarh, the goal is to reduce malnutrition rates and improve maternal and child health indicators.
The state government has appealed to all departments, Anganwadi workers, and the general public to play an active role in making this campaign a successful mass movement, so that the dream of a "well-nourished Chhattisgarh" can be realized.

0 Water conservation works are being identified with the participation of youth and women under the More Village - More Water - More Taria campaign
Raipur. Along with the Rice Festival, 'Employment Day' and 'Housing Day' were successfully organised in the Gram Panchayats of the state. With the initiative of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, under the "More Village-More Water - More Taria campaign" in "Nava Taria - Source of Income", sites for Nava Taria works were identified and an action plan was prepared with the active participation of youth and rural women.

Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA), the ongoing construction works in the Gram Panchayats were encouraged to be completed soon. Special emphasis was also laid on starting new demand-based works for the rural labour families holding job cards. 
On this occasion, a detailed action plan was discussed to complete the construction of houses approved under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin within 90 days. Along with this, the problems of the beneficiaries were resolved quickly by providing them information about the amount received.

During the program, self-help group members were encouraged to provide materials and engage in livelihood activities. Rainwater harvesting, geo-tagging, prompt complaint resolution, monitoring of panchayat work through QR codes, and widespread publicity of the schemes were also addressed. Public representatives, officials, employees, and villagers actively participated in the program.

Raipur. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, efforts are underway to provide clean drinking water to every household in Chhattisgarh under the Jal Jeevan Mission. In this regard, Jogimara village in Jashpur district has now become a new example of development by fully benefiting from the "Water for Every Home" facility.

Located approximately 20 kilometers from the district headquarters, this village is located in a geographically challenging area, with a large portion of the village covered in hilly terrain. Previously, villagers had to rely on traditional sources like streams and wells for drinking water. Women, in particular, had to trek down hillsides to fetch water from long distances, which was both time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Following the effective implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, an organized water supply system has been established in the village. Pipelines have been laid throughout the village from a 10 KL overhead tank, providing 56 functional household tap connections, ensuring regular access to clean and safe drinking water to every household, even those located in hilly areas.

This initiative has brought about widespread positive change in the village. Women no longer have to travel difficult paths to fetch water, saving them time and effort and allowing them to focus on other tasks. The availability of clean drinking water has reduced waterborne diseases and improved the health of villagers. Furthermore, children no longer have to spend time fetching water, which has positively impacted their school attendance and learning.

The scheme is operated and maintained by the village-level Water and Sanitation Committee, ensuring the smooth functioning of the water supply system. Community participation has also fostered a sense of responsibility and ownership among the people. Today, Jogimara village has become an inspiring example of the successful implementation of the "Har Ghar Jal" scheme, where the availability of clean drinking water has made the lives of villagers not only easier but also safer.

Raipur . In an important decision to strengthen the agriculture sector and provide better irrigation facilities to the farmers, the state government has given the second revised administrative approval of Rs 147.48 crore (one hundred forty seven crore forty eight lakh rupees) for the proposed Khutpali Diversion Scheme on Kanhar River under Balrampur development block of Balrampur- Ramanujganj district. On completion of the scheme, irrigation facility will be available in a total area of ​​3695 hectares including about 1975 hectares Kharif and 1720 hectares Rabi, which will provide huge benefits to the farmers of the area and will lead to a significant increase in agricultural production. 

The state government has directed that the project work be completed within the approved amount and the stipulated timeframe, and that tenders be invited only after technical approval has been obtained. All government rules and procedures will be followed before work begins, and a completion certificate will be submitted to the government after completion. Approval of the construction drawings and designs by a competent authority will be mandatory, and the tender process will only begin if at least 75 percent of the land is free of obstacles.

In case of land acquisition, expenditure will be made only within the limits of the approved amount and the savings from any other item will not be used without prior permission. If land acquisition is not proposed, then the construction work will be done on government land only and proper allotment of land will be ensured. Instructions have been given to keep the tender process transparent and competitive, to spend within the prescribed budget limit and to maintain economy and high quality in the construction work. In case of delay in the work, penalty will be imposed as per rules and unnecessary time extension will not be given.

The Chief Engineer has been entrusted with the responsibility of continuously monitoring the work and ensuring financial discipline in accordance with the provisions of the Chhattisgarh Financial Code. He has also been directed to properly assess the suitability of the scheme and implement it effectively in the public interest, thereby expanding irrigation facilities in the area and ensuring increased income for farmers.

Raipur. Show-cause notices have been issued to two firms based on irregularities discovered during inspections of agricultural input sales centers in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district. As per the collector's instructions, the Agriculture Department is conducting an intensive inspection campaign to ensure quality fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides are available to farmers before Kharif 2026.

In the Palari development block, the inspector inspected various agricultural service centers. During this period, a notice was issued to the concerned firm at the Palari Agricultural Service Center after the inventory register was found to be inadequately maintained. Similarly, in the Balodabazar development block, Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mr. Deepak Kumar Nayak, Fertilizer Inspector Loknath Diwan, and Fertilizer Branch Incharge Simanchal Gaur inspected Naveen Traders. During the inspection, stacking errors, a lack of inventory registers, and the license not being displayed in the designated place were found. Based on these irregularities, a notice has been issued to the firm and proceedings are underway to suspend the fertilizer authorization. Various agricultural centers were also inspected in the Kasdol and Bhatapara development blocks. The Deputy Director of Agriculture has instructed all inspectors to conduct regular inspections. The Agriculture Department has appealed to farmers to obtain a valid bill when purchasing agricultural inputs and to purchase fertilizer only through the POS machine.

Raipur. Mr. Gautam Patel, a progressive farmer from Sirshobha village in the Saraipali development block of Mahasamund district, has taken a significant step toward prosperity by adopting summer sunflower cultivation instead of traditional paddy cultivation. The Agriculture Department is providing ongoing technical guidance and support to encourage summer oilseed production.

Mr. Patel explained that he previously cultivated paddy, which required a lot of water and inputs. Last year, a water shortage affected his crop, resulting in financial losses. Consequently, under the guidance of the Agriculture Department, he cultivated sunflowers on approximately 1.5 acres this year.

Sunflower crop requires less water and less cost, due to which it is proving to be a profitable option for the farmers. At present, the condition of the crop is satisfactory and the production is estimated to be 8 to 10 quintals per acre. The total production is likely to be 12 to 15 quintals. As per the market price of Rs 4500 to 5500 per quintal, the income potential is around Rs 54 thousand to 82 thousand 500, in which a net profit of Rs 40 to 65 thousand is estimated. It is noteworthy that due to the provision of advanced seeds, technical advice and necessary support by the Agriculture Department, the farmers are successfully adopting the new farming method.

Raipur. The "Chief Minister's Naunihal Scholarship Scheme" has emerged as a new ray of hope for the working class families of Chhattisgarh, who dream big despite limited resources. An example of this is the family of Mrs. Pratibha Nishad, a registered construction worker living in Ward No. 6 of Mohla, whose son, Nehal Nishad, has received a scholarship under this scheme.

This support has been a lifeline for Pratibha Nishad, who dreams of providing a better education for her children despite financial constraints. Nehal's scholarship has not only eased his academic burden but also boosted his confidence. Now, he is pursuing his goal with even greater enthusiasm.

Under this scheme, run by the Labor Department, students from Class 1 through postgraduate, professional, and research programs are provided with assistance ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 rupees. Significantly, there are no marks requirements, allowing more children from working-class families to benefit. The success of this scheme in the Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district can be gauged from the fact that the target was to benefit 800 students in the 2025-26 academic year. However, through departmental efforts, 2,856 students were approved, representing 357 percent of the target.

Raipur. On the initiative of Governor Ramen Deka, a homeopathic health check-up camp was organised at Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Lok Bhawan on Monday. More than 60 officers-employees and their family members took benefit of the camp by getting their health check-up done.

Governor Deka visited the camp and got his blood pressure (BP) and weight checked. He motivated the officers-employees present to get regular health check-ups done and adopt a healthy lifestyle. The Governor said that by getting health check-ups done from time to time, it is possible to identify diseases in time and better treatment can be given.The camp provided free homeopathic medicines for various ailments, including blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, blood-related problems, sunstroke, and chickenpox. Doctors also provided health advice to attendees.Doctors and staff from Raipur Homeopathic Medical College and Hospital actively participated in this health camp. They examined patients, distributed necessary medicines, and also provided useful lifestyle advice.
This health camp organised in Lok Bhavan was appreciated by the officers, employees and their families, calling it a useful initiative.

Raipur. For consumers struggling with rising electricity bills and surcharges, the Chhattisgarh government's Chief Minister Electricity Bill Payment Solution Scheme has emerged as a new ray of hope. This scheme is not limited to mere discounts, but is also giving financially burdened families the opportunity to move forward with confidence and dignity.

Under the scheme, consumers receive a 50 to 75 percent discount on the principal outstanding amount and a 100 percent waiver of surcharges. Furthermore, the option of making a 10 percent down payment and paying the remaining amount in easy installments makes it even more accessible. The registration process is also simplified through the "More Bijli App" and at nearby distribution centers.

Shaheen Begum of Manendragarh is a living example of this. She received a significant relief after receiving a waiver of over ₹23,000 on her outstanding balance of approximately ₹48,000. This scheme, which benefits approximately 2.8 million consumers in the state, is providing relief of approximately ₹757 crore. This initiative is also strengthening a new foundation of trust between the government and citizens.

Raipur. Every person dreams of a permanent home where they can sleep peacefully. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has opened a new chapter in the life of Kanti, a resident of Pachautia village in the Mungeli development block. For Kanti, who had been dreaming of a permanent home for years, this scheme has been a boon. Previously, Kanti and her family lived in a mud house, facing hardships in every season. Leaking roofs during the rainy season, battling extreme heat in summer, and freezing cold in winter were part of their daily routine. Consequently, the need for a safe and sturdy home was constantly felt.
She was approved for a permanent home under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), after which she built her dream home. Now, Kanti and her family live a safe and dignified life in a permanent home. She says that she no longer has to face the vagaries of the weather, and the security of her home has given her peace of mind. Her children also have access to a better environment for their studies, strengthening the foundation for their future. Expressing gratitude to the government, he said that this scheme has brought happiness in his life and he has got the opportunity to live a respectable life.