Raipur. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is about to change its address in the capital, Raipur. The former mayor's bungalow, located near the city's Subhash Stadium, will now house the ED's office. The ED had requested approximately 4,000 square feet of space for its regional office. Following this, the decision was made at the Municipal Corporation's MIC meeting to give the vacant former mayor's bungalow to the ED.

The old mayor's bungalow has been vacant for a long time, but now it will be restored to its glory. The MIC meeting also made a significant decision regarding the Raipur Police Commissionerate. The community building in front of Kota Muktidham has been approved for temporary office use.

In this meeting, chaired by Mayor Meenal Choubey, several important decisions were taken to further improve the city's administrative functioning. It is now clear that the grip of investigative agencies and the administration in Raipur is set to strengthen. Municipal Corporation Commissioner Vishwadeep stated that the matter was discussed in the MIC meeting. The old mayor's bungalow, located near Subhash Stadium, will now be given over to the ED office.

A new ED office is being built in Naya Raipur. The ED office on the first floor of Subhash Stadium is becoming too small, so the government-owned Mayor's House below the water tank is being given to the ED for a while. Once the ED office in Naya Raipur is fully completed, the ED office will relocate there. Until then, this bungalow is being provided. This was also discussed in the MIC meeting.

Chhattisgarh will develop with determination: Finance Minister Shri O.P. Choudhary

Chhattisgarh Assembly passes Rs 1.87 lakh crore appropriation bill

*Provision of Rs 10,000 crore for the Farmers' Advancement Scheme*

₹8,200 crore has been allocated for the Mahatari Vandan Yojana.

Raipur/ Finance Minister Shri O.P. Choudhary presented a comprehensive and people-oriented Appropriation Bill of Rs. 1,87,500 crore for the Chhattisgarh government for the financial year 2026-27, laying out a strong blueprint for the overall development of the state. Responding to the discussion on the Appropriation Bill in the Assembly, the Finance Minister said that this budget has been prepared keeping in mind the aspirations of the state's 3 crore citizens and aims to ensure inclusive development, economic prosperity, and ensuring that the benefits of schemes reach the last person. The government has described this budget, prepared under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, as a "resolution-based budget," which is being considered an important step towards making the state a developed state by the year 2047.

*The financial structure of the budget is balanced and development oriented*

Finance Minister Shri O.P. Chaudhary informed the House that the total appropriation in the Appropriation Bill presented is ₹1,87,500 crore, which includes debt repayment and other adjustments. The net budget size has been set at ₹1,72,000 crore. Total receipts are also estimated at ₹1,72,000 crore, of which ₹1,41,000 crore is revenue receipts and ₹29,000 crore is capital receipts. Looking at expenditures, revenue expenditure is proposed at ₹1,45,000 crore and capital expenditure at ₹27,000 crore. The state's revenue deficit is estimated at only ₹2,000 crore, and the net fiscal deficit at ₹20,400 crore (2.87 percent of GSDP), reflecting the state's fiscal discipline and balanced management.

*Seven pillars of resolve and 5 new ambitious missions*

Finance Minister Mr. Chaudhary stated that this budget is based on the seven pillars of the resolution (inclusive development, infrastructure, investment, skilled human resources, Antyodaya, livelihood, and policy). To realize this vision, five new missions will be launched at a cost of ₹500 crore. A provision of ₹100 crore has been made for the Chief Minister's AI Mission (for the expansion of technology), ₹100 crore for the Chief Minister's Sports Excellence Mission, ₹100 crore for the Chief Minister's Tourism Development Mission, ₹100 crore for the Chief Minister's Infrastructure Mission, and ₹100 crore for the Chief Minister's Start-up and Nipun Mission.

The Finance Minister informed that Chhattisgarh is making steady progress economically. The state's economic growth rate in the year 2025-26 has been recorded at 8.11 percent, which is higher than the national average of 7.4 percent. Balanced growth in agriculture, industry and service sectors indicates the strong economic foundation of the state. Growth of 7.49 percent has been recorded in agriculture sector, 7.21 percent in industry and 9.11 percent in the service sector. Per capita income has increased to Rs 1 lakh 79 thousand 244, registering an increase of 10.07 percent. This growth indicates the acceleration in the state's economic activities and improvement in the income of citizens.

The Finance Minister stated that agriculture and farmer welfare have been given top priority in the budget. A provision of ₹10,000 crore has been made for the "Krishak Unnati Yojana," the largest item in the budget. The state government is purchasing paddy from farmers at the rate of ₹3,100 per quintal, and approximately ₹1.40 lakh crore has been paid directly into farmers' accounts so far. This has not only increased farmers' income but has also had a positive impact on the rural economy. To promote crop diversification, the government has included crops such as maize, kodo-kutki, ragi, and cotton in the scheme. Additionally, ₹5,500 crore has been allocated for free electricity supply for agricultural pumps, which will reduce the cost of farming.

Minister Shri Chaudhary stated that the budget also includes significant provisions for women's empowerment. Under the "Mahatari Vandan Yojana," approximately 7 million women in the state are receiving financial assistance of ₹1,000 per month. A provision of ₹8,200 crore has been made for the effective implementation of this scheme. The state government has prioritized the respect, security, and self-reliance of women by declaring 2026 as the "Mahatari Gaurav Year." Additionally, adequate budgetary allocations have been made for Anganwadi services, nutrition programs, and women and child development schemes. He stated that infrastructure development has been given special importance in this budget. A capital expenditure of ₹27,000 crore is proposed to develop robust infrastructure in the state. This includes ₹837 crore for the construction of 1,162 roads and ₹163 crore for the construction of 393 bridges. Irrigation projects have been allocated ₹4,400 crore and the Jal Jeevan Mission ₹3,000 crore. These provisions are expected to significantly improve connectivity, water supply, and agricultural production in rural and urban areas.

The Finance Minister stated that the budget also includes extensive provisions for health and education. A provision of ₹2,000 crore has been made for the National Health Mission and ₹1,500 crore for the Ayushman Yojana. The plan includes strengthening district hospitals, community health centers, and primary health centers, as well as establishing new medical colleges. In the field of education, the construction of 700 new school buildings and the upgrading of technical education institutions will provide a better educational environment for students. He stated that a balanced approach has been adopted in rural and urban development. For rural areas, ₹4,000 crore each has been allocated for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and the Employment Guarantee Mission. In urban areas, ₹750 crore will be allocated for infrastructure development, and urban amenities will be expanded through the "Adarsh ​​Shahar Samriddhi Yojana." Additionally, efforts have been made to improve urban living standards through underground electrification, the Nalanda Campus, and housing schemes.

Minister Shri Choudhary stated that tourism and the preservation of cultural heritage have also been given special attention in the budget. Religious tourism will be promoted through the "Shakti Peetha Project," while the "Ramlala Darshan Yojana" will facilitate pilgrims' visits to religious sites. The homestay policy will provide self-employment opportunities for local residents and encourage tourism-related ancillary industries. He stated that to strengthen law and order, provisions have been made for the creation of 1,500 new Bastar Fighter posts, the establishment of 15 new police stations, and the formation of five cyber police stations. Additionally, technological improvements will be made in various departments to promote e-governance, digital services, and transparency.

Finance Minister Shri O.P. Choudhary stated that this budget will emerge as a visionary and balanced development document for Chhattisgarh, playing a crucial role in engaging every section of society and making the state self-reliant and developed. He clarified that by ensuring effective implementation of schemes, the benefits of development will reach the last person in line, thereby realizing the dream of a "prosperous Chhattisgarh."

Leader of Opposition Dr. Charan Das Mahant, Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, MLAs Smt. Sangeeta Sinha, Mr. Umesh Patel, Ajay Chandrakar, Raghavendra Singh, Kiran Singhdev, Devendra Yadav, Dharamjeet Singh, Ramkumar Yadav and Sushant Shukla participated in the discussion on the Appropriation Bill.

Raipur/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Chaitra Navratri, Hindu New Year (Nav Samvatsara) and Gudi Padwa. On this auspicious occasion, he wished every citizen of the state happiness, prosperity, good health and peace.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Hindu New Year, which begins on the first day of the month of Chaitra, symbolizes new energy, new resolve, and new consciousness. This auspicious occasion also marks the beginning of Chaitra Navratri, the grand festival of Shakti worship, which is celebrated across the country with reverence, devotion, and spiritual faith.

He said that Gudi Padwa, a celebration of the New Year, is celebrated in various parts of the country, especially Maharashtra, and is a symbol of hope, enthusiasm, and rich cultural traditions. This festival brings a message of positive energy, new beginnings, and festivity to society.

Chief Minister Shri Sai, referring to Chhattisgarh's rich goddess tradition, said that the state's faith and culture are deeply rooted in various forms such as Mother Shitala, Mother Danteshwari, Mahamaya, Bamleshwari, Kankali, Bilaimata, and Chandrahasini Devi. This spiritual heritage strengthens the state's identity.

He said that during these holy days of Navratri, the land of Chhattisgarh is illuminated with devotion, spiritual practice, and worship of Shakti. Worshiping the Goddess not only provides spiritual energy but also fosters social harmony, positive thinking, and inner awareness.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the good governance government is committed to establishing new dimensions of development and trust while preserving the state's rich cultural heritage. He prayed to Mother Goddess that with her blessings, Chhattisgarh continues to progress on the path of development and that every family in the state is filled with happiness, peace, and prosperity.

*Strict action should be taken against those who force manual scavengers to work under duress - Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai*

*Sewerage cleaning should be done only through the Municipal Corporation or registered organizations*

State Monitoring Committee meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister

Raipur/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has said that strict action should be taken against those who force manual scavengers to work in the state. He directed the issuance of clear guidelines regarding sewerage cleaning. Under this, sewerage cleaning should be carried out only through the Municipal Corporation or registered organizations. Furthermore, full safety standards should be observed during cleaning to prevent any untoward incidents.

Expressing deep condolences on the death of three labourers while cleaning a septic tank in a big private hospital in the state yesterday, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that all possible help should be provided to the affected people and strict action should be taken against those responsible for the incident as per rules, so that such unpleasant incidents do not happen in future.

Chief Minister Shri Sai gave these instructions today while presiding over the meeting of the State Monitoring Committee held in the assembly hall of Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly regarding the effective implementation of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 under the Scheduled Caste Development Department.

On this occasion, Mr. Sonmani Bora, Principal Secretary of the Tribal and Scheduled Caste Development Department, stated that the Act also provides for penalties for those who force manual scavenging, including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to fifty thousand rupees. He added that appropriate publicity is also being conducted to raise awareness in urban areas.

It is noteworthy that this is the first meeting since the reconstitution of the State-Level Monitoring Committee. Principal Secretary Shri Sonmani Bora stated that in compliance with the Supreme Court's directives, a manual scavengers reserve survey has been conducted in all districts of the state, as per the guidelines, and all district collectors have issued certificates declaring the state free of manual scavengers, a moment of great honor and pride for the state. He stated that the practice of manual scavenging is contrary to human values ​​and the high ideals established by the Constitution. Every person in society has the right to live with dignity. He also commended the coordinated efforts of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, the Urban Administration and Development Department, and other allied departments/institutions for their commendable efforts towards eradicating the practice of manual scavengers.

The meeting presented the minutes of the previous meeting held in 2018. Furthermore, the State Level Survey Committee discussed and approved the resurvey report of manual scavengers received from the Urban Administration and Development Department in compliance with the order of the Honorable Supreme Court dated October 20, 2023.

Cabinet Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb, MLAs Shri Punnulal Mohle, Shri Doman Lal Korsevada, Chief Secretary Shri Vikassheel, Director General of Police Shri Arun Dev Gautam, Additional Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Pingua, Principal Secretary Shri Sonmani Bora, Secretary of Panchayat and Rural Development Department Shri Bhim Singh, Secretary of Urban Administration and Development Department Shri S. Basavaraju and other officials were present in the meeting.

A separate directorate will be formed in the state for the welfare of backward classes*

Raipur/ The State Backward Classes Advisory Council met today in the committee room of the Assembly under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai. The meeting discussed in detail several important topics, including the establishment of a separate directorate for the welfare of backward classes, the construction of new hostels, and the development of other backward classes.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said, "Our government is committed to the development of the backward classes. We are taking care of them and working on new development initiatives. The state is home to a large number of Other Backward Classes and minorities, including approximately 95 castes and their sub-groups. Our government is sensitive to the challenges of educational and socio-economic development of the Other Backward Classes."

Our government is committed to the overall development of these important but lagging sections of society by respecting their socio-cultural heritage and giving special emphasis on their all-round development.

To fulfill this commitment, our government has established the Ministry of Backward Classes and Minority Development, a department to accelerate the development of these communities and implement innovative schemes for them. Furthermore, the problems of these communities can be properly addressed and resolved, enabling this community to join the mainstream of development.

For the development of backward classes, the Other Backward Classes Commission and the Backward Classes Welfare Commission have been established. For this purpose, the Iron Crafts Development Board, Dyers Development Board, and Oil Mill Development Board have also been formed.

To achieve these objectives, the department has established hostels, ashrams, and residential schools for the educational development of these communities in the new main budget. Additionally, post-matric scholarships are being paid directly into the scholarship student's account through an online portal. A provision of ₹150 crore has been made for this purpose. Innovations have been implemented to ensure timely payment of scholarships, ensuring scholarship approval and payment are made within the current year through continuous monitoring. A financial assistance scheme for training students for competitive examinations has been included in the main budget, providing training for engineering, medical, UPSC, CGPSC, SSC, railway, banking, etc. Additionally, provision has been made for educational tours to develop students' interest in the study of Chhattisgarh's geographical and natural features and cultural heritage.
He said that a new scheme, the Chief Minister's Education Assistance Scheme, has been introduced in the main budget, through which students who cannot secure admission to hostels will be provided financial assistance for their studies. Currently, 55 departmental hostels are approved for Other Backward Classes. In the new budget, post-matric hostels for Other Backward Classes have been approved in six districts (Raigarh, Manendragarh-Chirmiri, Bharatpur, Dhamtari, Raipur, and Jashpur).

During this, other members of the State Backward Class Advisory Council gave important suggestions.

In the said meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saw, Backward Class and Minority Development Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Revenue Minister Shri Tank Ram Verma, Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, School Education Minister Shri Gajendra Yadav, Finance Minister Shri OP Chaudhary, Chief Secretary Shri Vikasshiil, Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Shri Subodh Singh along with other public representatives and officials were present in large numbers.

Bemetara. The district administration is now taking strict action against beneficiaries who are negligent in the construction of houses approved under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural). To ensure effective implementation and timely completion of the scheme, the district administration conducted a review of unstarted and incomplete houses, which revealed a large number of cases where construction had not begun or had been halted despite receiving the first installment.
According to administrative officials, eligible beneficiaries under the scheme are provided financial assistance in a phased manner for housing construction so that they can complete their permanent houses on time. However, some beneficiaries are showing no interest in construction even after receiving the funds, which is not only hampering the progress of the scheme but also resulting in misuse of government resources. In view of this serious situation, under the direction of the Collector, a list of all such cases has been prepared through the District Panchayat and Janpad Panchayats and sent to the concerned Sub-Divisional Officers. Instructions have been given to issue final warning notices to these beneficiaries, and if they fail to start or complete the work within the stipulated timeframe, action will be taken to recover the amount paid.
According to the data released,
84 cases from the year 2016-23 and 277 cases from the year 2024-26 have been identified in the District Panchayat Bemetara.
42 cases from the year 2016-23 have been identified in the District
Panchayat Berla. 105 cases from the year 2016-23 and 324 cases from the year 2024-26 have been identified in the District Panchayat Navagarh.
37 cases from the year 2016-23 and 60 cases from the year 2024-26 have been identified in the District Panchayat Saja.
The administration has clarified that beneficiaries whose construction work has been affected due to genuine reasons can submit appropriate evidence to the concerned authorities. At the same time, strict action will be taken against beneficiaries who deliberately show negligence, and revenue recovery procedures will be adopted. The Collector has directed officials to expedite the project's progress by maintaining constant monitoring, so that every eligible family in the district can be provided with a permanent home on time. He also appealed to beneficiaries to take advantage of this important government scheme, complete the construction of their homes promptly, and cooperate with the administration. This action is expected to accelerate the implementation of the scheme in the district and curb any future negligence.

Bilaspur : The Bilaspur High Court, in its landmark ruling on the long-running controversy surrounding the Assistant Professor Recruitment 2019, dismissed all petitions challenging the recruitment process and declared the current selection list to be completely valid and constitutional. The court clarified in its order that if a candidate from a reserved category scores more than the general cut-off, they will be included in the unreserved category as per the rules. The court also upheld the amendments made to the recruitment rules.

This entire matter was primarily surrounded by controversies surrounding post-examination rule changes and the reservation process, which have now received judicial approval. This High Court decision has brought significant relief to selected candidates who have been in limbo for several years, and the path for the recruitment process to proceed smoothly has now been fully paved.

Gariaband. CG BREAKING: The Superintendent of Police's office, Gariaband, issued administrative transfer orders on March 18, 2026. Under the order, several head constables and constables posted in the district have been temporarily assigned new postings until further orders.

According to the order, the work locations of Mukesh Toppo, Kumar Dhruv, Kavinder Kumar Sinha, Chumeshwar Dhruv, Virendra Kumar Patel, Anil Kumar Pandey, and Komal Prasad, along with other employees, have been changed. They have been assigned new responsibilities at the Panduka, Mainpur, Shobha, Peeparchhedi, Bindranavagarh police stations, and the traffic branch.

The Superintendent of Police has directed all concerned employees to report to their new postings with immediate effect. A copy of the order has been sent to all relevant officers in the district, including the Inspector General of Police, Raipur Range.

This administrative reshuffle has been done with the aim of making the police system better and more effective.

Commends Chief Minister Shri Sai’s Efforts in Launching Raipur–Rewa Air Connectivity

Raipur, March 18, 2026/ The Deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Rajendra Shukla, paid a courtesy visit to the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, at his official residence in Raipur today. Chief Minister Shri Sai extended a warm and gracious welcome to Shri Shukla, presenting him with a traditional shawl and a memento as a mark of respect and goodwill.

During the meeting, the two leaders engaged in meaningful discussions on a range of issues concerning regional development, mutual coordination, and public welfare. Both sides expressed a shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation between the neighbouring states in areas of common interest.

On the occasion, Shri Shukla highlighted that Rewa is now directly connected to Raipur through air services, describing it as a significant milestone achieved through the joint efforts of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. He said that this new connectivity marks a major step forward in enhancing accessibility and convenience for the people of both states. The Deputy Chief Minister conveyed his appreciation for the proactive efforts of Chief Minister Shri Sai in facilitating this initiative and reaffirmed the resolve to continue advancing shared developmental priorities.

It is noteworthy that the commencement of air services between Raipur and Rewa is expected to greatly ease travel for citizens of both Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, fostering closer ties and greater economic and social exchange.

Among those present on the occasion were Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, Dr. Rampratap Singh, Dr. Himanshu Dwivedi, and other public representatives.

Raipur -  A new picture of peace, development and trust has emerged in Chhattisgarh. 140 surrendered Naxalites from Bijapur and Kanker districts met Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai in the Assembly premises on Wednesday and shared their happiness on returning to the mainstream.

Chief Minister Sai discussed in detail with the surrendered Naxalites about their life before surrender and their current circumstances. During the conversation, the Naxalites told that now their life has completely changed – where earlier they used to live in the forests amidst insecurity and fear, now they are living a safe and respectable life with their families.They reported that roads, electricity, and other infrastructure have expanded rapidly in their areas, making life easier. Some surrendered Naxalites expressed emotion, saying they celebrated Holi with their families for the first time—a new and pleasant experience.
Welcoming everyone into the mainstream, the Chief Minister said that this decision represents not just a personal change, but a major step towards a bright future for Chhattisgarh. He said that by expressing faith in the Constitution, everyone has set a positive and inspiring example.The Chief Minister assured that the state government is working with full commitment to the rehabilitation, employment, and social reintegration of surrendered Naxalites. He said that Naxalism in the state is now in its final stages and the resolve of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eradicate Naxalism will soon be fulfilled.
Home Minister Vijay Sharma, Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap and Principal Secretary of Panchayat and Rural Development Department Mrs. Niharika Barik were also present on this occasion.

Raipur - Chief Minister's efforts for Rewa air service appreciated.
Raipur. Deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Rajendra Shukla, paid a courtesy call on Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today at his residence in the capital, Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Sai extended a warm welcome and felicitation to Shri Shukla by presenting him with a shawl and a memento. 
During the meeting, the two discussed various topics related to regional development, mutual coordination, and public interest. They also agreed to further strengthen cooperation between the two states. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla stated that Rewa is now directly connected to Raipur by air. Due to the joint efforts of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the people of both states have received a significant gift of air service. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla expressed his gratitude for Chief Minister Shri Sai's efforts in this direction and pledged to further advance the common interests of the two states. 
It is noteworthy that air service has commenced between Raipur and Rewa, making travel easier for the people of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. On this occasion, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board Dr. Rampratap Singh, Dr. Himanshu Dwivedi and public representatives were also present.

00 Nyota Bhoj Program at Anganwadi Centers: A Statewide Campaign for Nutrition, Education, and Public Participation
Raipur. The Nyota Bhoj Program, conducted at Anganwadi centers, has emerged as an effective medium for nutrition, education, and community participation in the state. Launched in accordance with the vision of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, this initiative is now witnessing active participation from various sections of society. At the state level, a total of 9,763 Nyota Bhoj events were held from January to February 2026, benefiting 1,83,927 children, reflecting the scheme's widespread success.
Looking at district-wise data, Bilaspur district held the highest number of 884 events, benefiting 18,703 children. Meanwhile, nutritious meals were provided to 13,944 children through 720 events in Korba, 9,835 children through 690 events in Raigarh, and 7,915 children through 636 events in Kanker. Similarly, 11,228 children were benefited through 606 events in Dhamtari, 7,302 children were benefited through 415 events in Mahasamund and 10,518 children were benefited through 439 events in Janjgir-Champa.

Under the program, citizens, public representatives, donors, and parents are sharing food with children at Anganwadi centers on special occasions—such as birthdays, anniversaries, or other family celebrations. This provides children with additional nutritious food, while also fostering social responsibility and sensitivity toward them.
According to officials from the Women and Child Development Department, most children attending Anganwadi centers are from rural and economically disadvantaged communities. Therefore, initiatives like the Nyota Bhoj are playing a vital role in their physical and mental development. This initiative is not only proving effective in reducing malnutrition but is also increasing the attraction of children and parents to Anganwadi centers. The government has appealed to the people of the state to strengthen this campaign by sharing their social and family occasions with Anganwadi children.

00 Strengthening of drinking water, sanitation, and infrastructure will gain momentum.
Raipur. The Union Finance Ministry has released ₹194.93 billion (₹194.93 billion) for Chhattisgarh's urban local bodies under the 15th Finance Commission. This amount will accelerate development work in the state's 139 urban local bodies and provide better infrastructure to citizens.
Under the 15th Finance Commission, ₹116.96 billion (₹116.96 billion) has been received as a tied grant, which will be used primarily for works related to drinking water supply and solid waste management. This will strengthen sanitation systems in urban areas and improve the supply of clean drinking water to citizens. The Government of India has also released an untied grant of ₹77.97 billion (₹77.97 billion) for this amount. This amount will be spent on the development of roads, drains, and other infrastructure in cities.
Expressing his pleasure at the release of the 15th Finance Commission funds by the Union Finance Ministry for Chhattisgarh, Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Shri Arun Sao said that the Central Government and the State Government are providing adequate financial resources in a coordinated manner for the development of cities and the improvement of public amenities. This is accelerating the work of making cities more organized, clean, and equipped with civic amenities. The State Government is fully committed to the holistic and sustainable development of urban areas. The funds received will be used with complete transparency and quality, so that the benefits of development work reach the last person.

00 Shukla announces opening of a library modeled after Nalanda in Rewa
00 New Nalanda libraries will be established in the state, including the capital - Finance Minister Chaudhary
Raipur. During his visit to Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla visited and praised the Nalanda Campus Library in the capital. Impressed by this model, he announced the establishment of a library on similar lines in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla inspected the library's first floor, second floor, and terrace, inquiring about the book distribution system and study facilities. He praised the efforts to provide better facilities to students at a low fee and congratulated the Chhattisgarh government and district administration for the Nalanda Campus Library. He said that such initiatives provide the right direction to youth and ensure proper utilization of their energy. He noted that a large number of young people are studying at the Nalanda Library and are being selected in competitive examinations. Such young people will play a crucial role in taking the country and the state to new heights.
Chhattisgarh Finance Minister OP Choudhary informed that the Nalanda Campus Library has been established to meet the needs of the youth, where students are studying 24/7 and excelling in competitive examinations. He explained that this library was built with DMF funds and other support, and is currently operated with fees and donations from donors. A total of 42 such libraries are being established in the state, including the capital.
Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh stated that a committee has been formed to manage the library, under which all libraries have been integrated, facilitating operations. He added that this library annually provides selection for competitive examinations like the UPSC and CGPSC. Furthermore, the library charges ₹200 per month for BPL students and ₹500 per month for general category students. Corporation Commissioner Mr. Vishwadeep, ADM Umashankar Bande, District Employment Officer Mr. Kedar Patel, and other officials and students were present on the occasion.

Raipur. Under the guidance of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, various schemes are being implemented in Chhattisgarh to conserve water and increase farmers' income. These efforts have yielded positive results in the form of Shri Malti Mohan, a farmer from the village of Kadro in the Pathalgaon development block of Jashpur district.

Shri Malti Mohan, a farmer who used to cultivate summer paddy in the past, this time made a change under the guidance of the Agriculture Department and cultivated maize crop in 2 acres of land. With this innovation, he got better production and a net income of Rs 88 thousand 200. The farmer told that the total expenditure in maize cultivation was Rs 11 thousand 800, which includes seeds, fertilizers and other necessary arrangements. He earned around Rs 1 lakh from the sale of maize, which made it possible to earn a good net income. He told that compared to paddy, maize cultivation requires less water and less cost, while the profit is more.

Mr. Malti Mohan explained that summer paddy cultivation requires more water and is also costly, while maize has emerged as a better alternative. This change has not only increased his income but also promoted water conservation and environmental protection. The farmer expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai for this initiative. His success is also inspiring other farmers, who are now turning to alternative crops instead of paddy.

Raipur - A safe and pucca home brings stability, dignity, and peace to every family. When a dream of many years becomes a reality, it's not just a house but a new beginning of happiness and self-confidence. A similar positive change occurred in the life of Mrs. Manisha Shukla of Budhwari Bazaar, Korba Municipal Corporation, when her dream of a pucca home came true through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) 2.0.

Mrs. Manisha Shukla is a teacher in a private school. She and her husband, Mr. Vipin Kumar Shukla, had long considered building a permanent home for their family, but their limited income made it difficult to raise a large sum of money at once. The old house they lived in had become worn out and suffered from leaks and other problems during the rainy season. The poor condition of the house required periodic repairs, and the limited space also made it inconvenient to have guests over.

During the 2025-26 survey, her name was included in the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) 2.0 list. After completing the necessary documentation, her housing was approved. Soon, the first installment of the scheme arrived in her bank account, enabling her to begin construction on her dream home. Manisha combined her years of savings with the scheme funds and built a strong, beautiful, permanent home. Now, her home is fully completed. She and her family are living comfortably and peacefully in their new home.

Building a permanent home has not only alleviated Manisha's daily struggles but also enhanced her social standing. Her family now lives in a safe and respectable environment. She says the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has given many families like hers the opportunity to fulfill their dream of a permanent home.

Raipur. The picture of big changes through small contributions is visible today from urban to rural areas. The Mahatari Vandan Yojana has brought new hope and confidence in the life of Mrs. Bharti Vaishnav, resident of Village Rampura, Sector Gochhiya, Sahaspur Lohara Development Block, Kabirdham district. Under the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, she has received a total amount of Rs. 25,000 through 25 installments so far. This amount has been no less than a support for her. While earlier it was challenging to manage small household expenses, now the regular assistance received from the scheme has stabilized her financial situation to a great extent.

Bharti Vaishnav explains that the biggest benefit of this amount is her children's education. She is now able to provide them with books, notebooks, and other essential educational materials on time. This has ensured continuity in their education and is shaping their future in a positive direction. Furthermore, this amount is also helping to meet daily household expenses such as groceries, medicine, and other essential needs. Now, she no longer has to depend on anyone for even small needs, which has boosted her self-esteem and confidence.

Expressing gratitude for this government scheme, Bharti Vaishnav said that the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is extremely beneficial for women. This scheme not only provides financial assistance but also inspires women to become self-reliant. If women receive timely support and opportunities, they can not only improve the condition of their families but also make significant contributions to the development of society.