State
Our mother tongue is the simplest and most powerful medium to express our feelings, sorrow and happiness - Deka
00 Governor laid the foundation stone of Sant Shadaram Sahib Bhasha Bhawan
Raipur. Governor Ramen Deka laid the foundation stone of Sant Shadaram Sahib Bhasha Bhawan today. During this, he inaugurated the Ideathon organized under the Innovation and Incubation Centre under Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University. He said that our mother tongue is the simplest and most powerful medium to express our feelings, sorrow and happiness. Emphasizing on the prosperity and development of the mother tongue, he said that we all have an intimate connection with our mother tongue. When we meet a mother tongue speaker in an unknown place, we immediately get connected with them in a bond of affection.
Our country is known for its rich culture and diverse languages. Despite being multilingual, our nation is bound together by a common thread of unity. Sanskrit plays a significant role in this. Sanskrit is our oldest language. A closer look will reveal that the word "Sanskrit" is included in all Indian languages—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Assamese, and others. Our cultural diversity is our greatest strength. Deka expressed his delight at laying the foundation stone for the Sant Shadaram Sahib Bhasha Bhavan, a significant step toward promoting the Sindhi language. Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University offers a one-year diploma and postgraduate (M.A.) course in Sindhi, a commendable effort to keep the language alive.
He said that many languages and dialects are spoken in India. One of these is Sindhi, a language in which literature and culture are constantly flowing. He said that after Partition, the Sindhi community has remained a part of India. Through their hard work, the Sindhi community has achieved prosperity today, and the community is playing an important role in nation-building. He said that there is no state in the country where Sindhi speakers do not live. Chhattisgarh also has a large number of Sindhi people. He said that while it is good to make efforts to promote one's own language and culture, we must respect the language and culture of the state in which we live. Only then will harmony prevail in society. He
said that Indian languages have a very ancient and rich history. Indian languages are our cultural identity and play an important role in strengthening national unity. All languages together express cultural richness. It is our duty to preserve and promote them. We should respect our mother tongues and Indian languages and promote them. Efforts are also necessary to connect them with modern technology, so that the knowledge-science, history-heritage, literature and art-culture etc. contained in these languages can be easily transferred to the coming generations.
In the program, awards were distributed to last year's Ideathon winners. On this occasion, the head of Shadani Darbar, Saint Shri Yudhishthir Lal Ji Maharaj, Professor Sunil Baburao Kulkarni from Rashtriya Sindhi Bhasha Vikas Parishad, New Delhi, Raipur city MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, Vice Chancellor of Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Professor Sachchidanand Shukla and Registrar Dr. Shailendra Kumar Patel, along with the university's professors and students and officials of Sindhi community were present.
Two IAS officers have been transferred and their charges have been changed.
Raipur. The state government has made partial administrative reshuffle and changed the charge of two IAS officers. According to separate orders issued by the General Administration Department, 2011 batch IAS officer Chandan Kumar has been given the additional charge of Additional Chief Executive Officer of Chhattisgarh Capital Region Development Authority along with his current responsibilities. Currently, he is working as Special Secretary in the Finance Department as well as Chief Executive Officer of Nava Raipur Atal Nagar Development Authority. In another order, IAS officer Tirthraj Agrawal, Deputy Secretary (Planning, Economic and Statistics Department) has been relieved of the additional charge of Endowments and Religious Trusts Department. Now he will work only as Deputy Secretary in his parent department.
Respect for constitutional norms is essential: The country will never accept the insult to tribal society and women power: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Sai wrote a strong letter to Mamata Banerjee over the insult to President Draupadi Murmu.
Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has written a strong letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee, expressing his deep objection to the recent treatment meted out to the Honorable President of India, Mrs. Draupadi Murmu. Chief Minister Shri Sai has said that this treatment of the country's first woman President, who comes from the tribal community, is not just an insult to an individual but to the country's highest constitutional institution, the tribal community, and the women power.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated in his letter that India's democratic traditions and etiquette are respected throughout the world. It has been our culture to never let differences of opinion become discord, but not observing even minimal courtesy towards the highest constitutional office of the President is contrary to democratic values. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the negligence in the arrangements related to the program and the insult to the woman President, who comes from a tribal community, during her visit just before International Women's Day is highly condemnable and unfortunate. He said that this incident deeply hurts the sentiments of millions of tribals, backward classes, Dalits, and women in the country.
Chief Minister Mr. Sai also stated in his letter that this is the first time the President himself has had to publicly express his anguish over the behavior of a state government. He stated that this situation is extremely worrying in the country's democratic history and has tarnished the image of a prestigious state like West Bengal. Chief Minister Mr. Sai also mentioned the Sandeshkhali incident in his letter, stating that the incidents involving tribal women there had shocked the entire nation. He stated that such treatment of the deprived and tribal communities is unacceptable under any circumstances.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has urged Ms. Mamata Banerjee to admit her mistake, apologize to the country and society on this issue, and assure the country that in the future, respect for democratic institutions and constitutional posts will be maintained. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that in India's democratic system, the President is the symbol of the country's highest constitutional institution and the dignity of democracy is linked to his respect. He said that constitutional posts should be respected, rising above any political differences.
Chief Minister Shri Sai clearly said that this issue related to the honour of the President coming from the tribal community is linked to the identity and self-respect of the entire country, hence, while respecting the sentiments of the country and society, it is necessary to take responsible steps in this matter.
Chhattisgarh will get a new growth engine through planned development of the capital region: Chief Minister Sai
00 State Capital Region to be developed on the lines of metropolitan cities, modern infrastructure and connectivity to gain momentum
00 Chief Minister chairs first meeting of Chhattisgarh Capital Region Development Authority
00 SCR to witness rapid development of systematic housing, education, health, trade and commerce, connectivity and modern infrastructure
00 SCR works to be completed as per the prescribed plan and timelines, Chief Minister directs for regular high-level review of progress
Raipur. The first meeting of the Chhattisgarh Capital Region Development Authority (State Capital Region - SCR) was held today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai in his office located in the Vidhan Sabha complex. The meeting discussed in detail the objectives, functioning, activities and action plan for the overall and planned development of the capital region.
Addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Capital Region Development Authority has been envisioned to provide systematic housing, education, health, trade and commerce and better employment opportunities keeping in mind the city's growing population. He stated that the Authority's first meeting was extremely fruitful, and the positive results of the detailed discussions on various topics will be clearly visible in the future.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the capital Raipur and surrounding cities are rapidly developing into a large urban area, requiring balanced and planned development along the lines of metropolitan cities. He stated that the announcement of the State Capital Region has raised public expectations, and meeting these expectations is the government's priority. He directed officials to ensure all work is completed in accordance with the established plan and timelines, and to ensure regular high-level reviews of progress.
The meeting was informed that the capital Raipur and its surrounding areas will be developed as the State Capital Region, encompassing Raipur, Durg-Bhilai, Nava Raipur Atal Nagar, and surrounding areas. This region will be developed along the lines of major metropolitan cities and will become a major growth engine for Chhattisgarh's development in the future. The meeting considered the development of regional mobility and logistics in the capital region, the techno-economic feasibility study for metro operations, the conduct of surveys, and the appointment of expert consultants. Also discussed were proposals for delegation of administrative and financial powers to the Authority, the appointment of a chartered accountant for audit services, and the engagement of expert consultants for the Planning Division.
The meeting also discussed the action plan for preparing the Capital Region Development and Investment Plan. This plan includes the proper identification of investment areas, necessary surveys, research, and studies, and the development of a phased project implementation strategy. It was also agreed to issue necessary guidelines to simplify the land development and allotment process in the capital region. The meeting also provided information about a provision of ₹27 crore for the Authority's initial activities.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saw, Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary, Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, Public Works Department Secretary Dr. Kamalpreet Singh, Chief Executive Officer of the Chhattisgarh Capital Region Development Authority Shri Ankit Anand, Urban Administration Department Secretary Dr. Basavaraju S., NRDA CEO Shri Chandan Kumar, and senior officials from various departments were present. It
is noteworthy that Chhattisgarh, geographically located in the center of the country, is rapidly emerging as an important center of trade, commerce, and industry. The development of the State Capital Region will provide planned urban expansion, better transport connectivity, modern infrastructure and new investment opportunities in the capital and surrounding cities.
In Bastar, guns are losing, trust is winning: Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai
108 armed Maoists carrying a reward of Rs 3.29 crore surrender in Jagdalpur, including 44 women cadres.
Raipur - Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, describing the ongoing campaign against Maoist violence in the Bastar region as a major success, said that now it is not guns but trust that is prevailing in Bastar. He said that the decision of 108 armed Maoist cadres carrying a bounty of ₹3.29 crore in Jagdalpur to abandon the path of violence and return to the mainstream of society is a clear indication of the positive change taking place in Bastar towards peace, good governance, and development. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that these surrendered Maoist cadres also include 44 female Maoists. This demonstrates the growing confidence of the people of Bastar in moving forward on the path of development and peace. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that due to the state government's rehabilitation policy, the coordinated efforts of the security forces, and the rapid development work taking place in the Bastar region, a large number of Maoists are abandoning the path of violence and joining the mainstream of society. This is strengthening the atmosphere of peace in Bastar and positive changes are visible in the lives of the common people. Chief Minister Shri Sai praised the courage of the security forces, the efforts of the administration, and the cooperation of the local people for this success. He said that the people of Bastar now want to move forward towards development and prosperity, free from fear and violence. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that under the able leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, decisive action is being taken against Naxalism. The Chhattisgarh government, in coordination with the central government, is moving forward resolutely towards the complete elimination of Naxalism. He said that the state government's goal is to make Bastar, and the entire state of Chhattisgarh, free from fear, peaceful, and developed. To this end, continuous work is being done on all three fronts: security, development, and trust. The Chief Minister reiterated that the creation of a fear-free and developed Chhattisgarh is the government's unwavering resolve.
Rakhi Dhruv became self-reliant with tamarind latta, turning traditional flavours into a powerful source of livelihood.
Raipur. Rakhi Dhruv, a resident of Arjuni village in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, has set an inspiring example of self-reliance by making Chhattisgarh's traditional delicacy, Tamarind Lata, a source of livelihood. Through hard work, innovation, and a spirit of preserving tradition, she has not only made this traditional product her signature product but also strengthened her family's financial situation.
Rakhi Dhruv, a resident of Arjuni village in Balodabazar development block, explains that her success began when she visited a relative's house in Raipur. There, she saw the women nearby making Tamarind Lata in the traditional way. Recognizing the potential in this work, she gathered information about it and, upon returning to her village, decided to turn it into a business by joining the Bihan group. Rakhi Dhruv purchases tamarind as raw material for her business from Bhatapara, while she orders boxes for attractive packaging from Bilaspur. With the support of other women in the group and her own hard work, she has transformed this activity into a successful business.
Currently, she earns approximately ₹1.5 lakh annually from this work, enabling her to better support and financially strengthen her family. Rakhi says that people around her now affectionately call her "Lakhpati Didi," which is a matter of pride for her. Rakhi Dhruv's husband, Mr. Jaleshwar Dhruv, runs a tailoring and shoe shop in the village. Rakhi had a desire to do something on her own, which this tamarind latta business gave a new direction. She attributes her success to the welfare schemes of the central and state governments.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, Rakhi Dhruv says that government schemes have given rural women the opportunity to step out of the confines of their homes and move forward on the path of economic independence. Today, through Bihan, the living standards of thousands of families like hers have changed positively, and women are establishing themselves in society with self-respect.
Shakeela's dreams are being fulfilled through the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, she has become self-reliant by paying the installment of her sewing machine.
Raipur. The Chhattisgarh government's ambitious Mahtari Vandan Yojana has not only brought financial support to millions of women in the state, but has also boosted their self-confidence. Shakeela Bano, a resident of Mukti Para in Ambikapur, is a living example of this. Shakeela Bano knew sewing, but due to not having her own sewing machine, she faced many difficulties in working. When the Mahtari Vandan Yojana was launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Shakeela used this opportunity to achieve self-reliance.

Shakeela, moving towards financial independence,
explains that she made good use of the monthly payment of ₹1,000 she received under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana. She purchased a sewing machine on installments and used the money she received from the scheme to pay its installments. Shakeela explains that the machine's installment is now due. She is now able to use the income she earns from sewing to fund her children's education. She added that this scheme has provided a lasting financial support for many women like her. Shakeela credited her success
to the government's scheme,
as well as the Women and Child Development Department and Anganwadi workers. She said that the workers went door-to-door to find women, informed them about the scheme, and assisted them in filling out forms. It is because of their efforts that women are now receiving the funds at home. Shakeela Bano,
who received financial support from the Mahatari Vandan Yojana,
expressed her gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai for the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, saying that the amount of Rs 1000 may seem small, but it is a huge mental and financial support for a woman. Now women are assured that they have a fixed and permanent amount available for their needs. This initiative of the government has laid the foundation for positive change in the lives of lakhs of women in the state. Many women like Shakeela Bano are playing an important role in strengthening the financial condition of their families by using this amount for small businesses, household needs and children's education.
CM Sai said there is sufficient stock of LPG, petrol and diesel, avoid rumours.
Raipur. The public need not worry about the availability of cooking gas. The state has sufficient stocks of LPG, petrol, and diesel. District officials have been instructed to ensure a smooth supply of cooking gas, regular stock monitoring, and strict action against black marketing. Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, sharing a post on Twitter, appealed to the public to avoid rumors and book gas only as needed.
Chhattisgarh tops the country in the Prime Minister's Matru Vandana Yojana
Raipur: Chhattisgarh has achieved another significant national milestone in the field of women's health, nutrition, and empowerment , surpassing 00 larger states. In the February 2026 state-wise national ranking for the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, Chhattisgarh has achieved history by securing first place in the country among large states. The state surpassed other large states to achieve this feat.
According to the rankings, Chhattisgarh has performed exceptionally well with 93.37 percent enrollment, an 83.87 percent approval rate, and 93.95 percent prompt resolution of complaints. The pendency rate for more than 30 days is only 7.07 percent and the complaint pendency rate is 4.96 percent, reflecting the effective and transparent implementation of the scheme. It is noteworthy that Chhattisgarh has jumped six places compared to the previous month to achieve first place.

Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai congratulated the officials, employees, Anganwadi workers, and field staff of the Women and Child Development Department on this achievement. He stated that the state government accords top priority to maternal and child health. He stated that safe motherhood is being promoted by providing financial assistance to pregnant women through the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, and that Chhattisgarh's first-place ranking is a testament to the continued efforts in this direction.
Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade described this prestigious achievement as a proud moment for the state and congratulated the departmental team. She stated that Chhattisgarh has become one of the leading states in the country due to the able guidance and visionary leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai. She added that the state has achieved this position as a result of the coordination, commitment, and timely work of all the officials, employees, and Anganwadi workers.
Minister Smt. Rajwade expressed confidence that the department will continue to work with the same energy and dedication in the future, maintaining this top position, and ensuring timely delivery of the scheme's benefits to every eligible pregnant woman in the state. Giving information about the implementation of the scheme, he said that in the financial year 2025-26, 1,86,586 pregnant women in the state have been registered under the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana. So far, the state government has transferred an amount of Rs 72 crore 24 lakh 89 thousand directly into the bank accounts of eligible beneficiary women.
The effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana has strengthened maternal and child health services in the state, and Chhattisgarh is emerging as an inspiring model for the country.
Respect for constitutional norms is essential: The country will never accept the insult to tribal society and women power: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Sai wrote a strong letter to Mamata Banerjee over the insult to President Draupadi Murmu.
Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has written a strong letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee, expressing his deep objection to the recent treatment meted out to the Honorable President of India, Mrs. Draupadi Murmu. Chief Minister Shri Sai has said that this treatment of the country's first woman President, who comes from the tribal community, is not just an insult to an individual but to the country's highest constitutional institution, the tribal community, and the women power.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated in his letter that India's democratic traditions and etiquette are respected throughout the world. It has been our culture to never let differences of opinion become discord, but not observing even minimal courtesy towards the highest constitutional office of the President is contrary to democratic values. Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the negligence in the arrangements related to the program and the insult to the woman President, who comes from a tribal community, during her visit just before International Women's Day is highly condemnable and unfortunate. He said that this incident deeply hurts the sentiments of millions of tribals, backward classes, Dalits, and women in the country.
Chief Minister Mr. Sai also stated in his letter that this is the first time the President himself has had to publicly express his anguish over the behavior of a state government. He stated that this situation is extremely worrying in the country's democratic history and has tarnished the image of a prestigious state like West Bengal. Chief Minister Mr. Sai also mentioned the Sandeshkhali incident in his letter, stating that the incidents involving tribal women there had shocked the entire nation. He stated that such treatment of the deprived and tribal communities is unacceptable under any circumstances.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has urged Ms. Mamata Banerjee to admit her mistake, apologize to the country and society on this issue, and assure the country that in the future, respect for democratic institutions and constitutional posts will be maintained. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that in India's democratic system, the President is the symbol of the country's highest constitutional institution and the dignity of democracy is linked to his respect. He said that constitutional posts should be respected, rising above any political differences.
Chief Minister Shri Sai clearly said that this issue related to the honour of the President coming from the tribal community is linked to the identity and self-respect of the entire country, hence, while respecting the sentiments of the country and society, it is necessary to take responsible steps in this matter.
By joining the self-help group, the women of Kansabel adopted the path of self-employment.
00 Traditional handicraft products become a source of livelihood
Raipur. Traditional skills, such as pottery, embroidery and wood work, not only provide employment but also preserve cultural heritage through eco-friendly products using local materials. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, rural women of Jashpur district are setting an example of self-reliance under the National Rural Livelihood Mission - Bihan Yojana. 11 women of Hariyali Self Help Group of Semhar Kachhar village of Kansabel development block have strengthened their livelihood by making attractive baskets and other traditional handicraft products from Chhind Kasa.

Group member Mrs. Balmuni Bhagat explained that joining the Bihan Yojana has provided them with the opportunity for self-employment. Previously, women were limited to household chores, but now they are earning well. This work empowers women economically and instills confidence. She explained that this is not only a business, but also a way to pass on traditions, skills, and cultural heritage from one generation to the next. The women expressed that the Bihan Yojana has brought positive change to their lives. With the training, support, and marketing facilities provided through the group, their products have become popular in local markets and fairs. The women say that they are no longer confined to their homes but are forging their own identities.

The sisters of the group expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and the district administration, saying that government schemes are empowering them and making them self-reliant. Handicraft products are a major source of income for us women, empowering millions of people, especially women, to become self-reliant.
The central government has taken a major decision, relaxing rules to encourage foreign investment.
National Desk: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a significant change in the foreign investment policy. This decision relaxes the rules related to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), especially in the case of investments from countries that share a land border with India. The government says this change will bring clarity to the investment process and strengthen the startup and manufacturing sectors in the country.
Strict rules were implemented in 2020
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the central government issued Press Note 3, which mandated that any investment from countries sharing borders with India go through the government approval route. This rule was intended to protect Indian companies from cheap acquisitions at the time. This provision primarily applied to investments from neighboring countries, including China.
What are the provisions in the new changes?
Following the latest Cabinet decision, some significant amendments have been made to the policy. The definition of "Beneficial Owner" has been clarified. If an investor has a non-controlling stake of up to 10% in a border-sharing country, such investments may be permitted under the automatic route. Indian companies receiving investments will be required to provide relevant details to the government. This change is in accordance with the Prevention of Money Laundering Rules, 2005.
Fast-track clearances in certain sectors
The government has also set up faster approval processes to boost investment in certain strategic manufacturing sectors.
- These areas include:
- Electronic Components
- Electronic Capital Goods
- Capital Goods
- Projects across the solar value chain such as polysilicon and wafers
The target is to decide on investment proposals in these sectors within 60 days, while ensuring that majority control of the company remains with Indian citizens or entities.
Investment and technology will get a boost
The government believes that due to the earlier system, many international private equity and venture capital funds were hesitant to invest in India as their funds comprise investors from different countries.
After the new policy:
- The investment process will be more transparent.
- Startups and deep-tech sectors will be able to get fresh capital
- Electronics and manufacturing industries will get a boost
- India's role in the global supply chain may increase
The government says that while accelerating economic development, vigilance will also be maintained on aspects related to national security.
T20 World Cup 2026: Team India's unknown hero, who once drove a school bus, led them to two consecutive World Cup victories.
National Desk: The entire country is celebrating the Indian cricket team's historic victory in the T20 World Cup 2026. While the credit for this victory is being given to the 15 players on the field, the contribution of the team's support staff behind the scenes has been equally important.
One such name is Nuwan Seneviratne, affectionately known as "Bawwa" in Team India. Nuwan, a native of Sri Lanka, works as a left-arm throw-down specialist in the Indian team's support staff and provides specialized practice to the batsmen. It is believed that his hard work played a major role in Team India's second consecutive T20 World Cup victory.
A special celebration was held after India's victory.
After Team India won the T20 World Cup 2026, Nuwan Seneviratne posted a picture of himself on social media. In this picture, Nuwan Seneviratne is seen with the T20 World Cup trophy. He also shared his achievement with Team India with the fans. Nuwan Seneviratne wrote, '2023 - This place gave me many memories. 2026 - This place created new memories for me. 2024 and 2026 - Two consecutive T20 World Cup trophies. Team India. Forever.'
Nuwan gives special practice to the batsmen
Nuwan Seneviratne is called the unsung hero of Team India because his work isn't directly visible in matches, but he plays a significant role in the players' preparation. He helps Indian batsmen practice against left-arm fast bowlers. By bowling at different angles and speeds, he prepares them for difficult situations. His hard work has strengthened the Indian batting line-up and improved the players' performance in major tournaments. After Team India's victory, the Sri Lankan media also praised him, highlighting how a Sri Lankan man is making a significant contribution to India's success.
Once a school bus driver, he ran his family.
Nuwan Seneviratne was born on November 14, 1979, in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. He played just two first-class matches in 2004, but his cricket career didn't last long. Family responsibilities forced him to drive a school bus in Colombo. He also helped players practice at local cricket grounds. It's said that during the Indian team's tour of Sri Lanka in 2017, Virat Kohli spotted him. His exceptional throw-down skills earned him the opportunity to work with the Indian team. He officially joined Team India's support staff during the 2018 Asia Cup and has been a constant fixture with the team ever since.
Life changed through hard work
Nuwan Seneviratne's journey from driving a school bus to working with one of the world's most successful cricket teams is a story of hard work and dedication. While his name may rarely make headlines, cricket fans are now recognizing his role in the Indian team's major victories. This is why, after the T20 World Cup 2026 victory, he is being called Team India's "unsung hero."
US-Israel-Iran War: Chhattisgarh government on alert amid Middle East tensions, helps citizens stranded abroad
US-Israel-Iran War: Raipur. Tensions in the Middle East have reached a peak due to the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran. In light of this escalating conflict, the Chhattisgarh government has taken precautionary measures and appointed a nodal officer to coordinate and assist the state's citizens in West Asia.
According to an order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), Lekha Ajgalle, Liaison Officer, Office of the Resident Commissioner, Chhattisgarh Bhawan, New Delhi, has been appointed as the nodal officer. She has been given the responsibility of arranging transportation in the West Asia region and providing necessary assistance to Chhattisgarh citizens present there.
The government has also released their contact numbers for the convenience of citizens. If needed, they can be contacted on mobile number 8349840582, office telephone number 011-46156000, and fax number 011-46156030.
Former IAS Anil Tuteja did not get relief from the Supreme Court, refused to grant bail in all the cases simultaneously.
Delhi. The Supreme Court has rejected a petition filed by jailed former IAS officer Anil Tuteja, seeking a stay on filing new FIRs against him and simultaneous bail in all pending cases. The Supreme Court stated that he was among the officers close to power and enjoyed power for years. This is a case of public funds being diverted from private hands. He must follow the legal process.
Former IAS officer Anil Tuteja held sway in the state during the Congress government. He is accused in various cases, including the excise scam, the DMAF scam, the NAN scam, the custom milling scam, and the coal scam. He recently received bail from the High Court in one case. He filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking simultaneous bail in all the cases, directing investigating agencies to conduct investigations in all cases simultaneously and grant him bail until the trial is complete, and also seeking a moratorium on filing new cases.
His case was heard on Monday by a division bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Jaymalya Bagchi. Advocate Shoeb Alam appeared on behalf of Anil Tuteja. He argued that investigating agencies have shown a unique ability to arrest him in another case when he was close to getting bail in one case. The court was informed that Tuteja has been in jail since April 2024 and has voluntarily submitted to continuous custodial interrogation by the Chhattisgarh EOW and ED.
Tuteja's lawyer alleged that his right to personal liberty is being violated by the Chhattisgarh government and the Enforcement Directorate detaining him in a new case every time he is granted bail in a pending case. He should not be arrested in one case just to keep him behind bars. The lawyer argued that he has been in jail for the last 20 months after the Supreme Court cancelled his bail and that he cannot be taken on remand in other cases while he is already in custody. He should be interrogated in all the cases instead of waiting for his release on bail. The same pattern is visible in all these cases.
After hearing the arguments, the court said, "This case is not politically motivated. You are a bureaucrat who has enjoyed power for so many years. This is an issue of public funds going into private hands. If you are involved, you must follow the judicial process." The bench said, "Your argument is emotionally valid, but not legally valid. From a legal perspective, your argument cannot be accepted because when the agency itself is not prepared to arrest you, how can we enforce your arrest?"
The CJI's bench stated that the court granted bail in all cases where discretion was exercised, but it cannot make a mandatory order granting bail in all current and future cases. However, the Supreme Court stated that if he fears arrest, he may seek post-arrest bail or further bail. It also directed that if he files a bail petition within a week, the High Court must decide on it on a priority basis within two to four weeks.
Chhattisgarh Assembly: Government surrounded on 21,530 crore rupees for CRPF deployment, Leader of Opposition raised questions in the House
Chhattisgarh Assembly: Raipur. During the discussion on grant demands in the Chhattisgarh Assembly, the issue of expenditure incurred on the deployment of central paramilitary forces came up. Leader of the Opposition Dr. Charandas Mahant demanded a clear answer from Home Minister Vijay Sharma regarding the ₹21,530 crore requested by the central government.
In the House, Dr. Mahant stated that on June 25th, a notice was received from the central government, stating that the Union Home Ministry would be paid for the ₹21,530 crore spent on the deployment of central paramilitary forces in the state. He questioned that this large amount is not mentioned anywhere in the state budget, so from which head will the government make this payment.
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The Leader of the Opposition stated that on March 17, 2025, the Chief Minister wrote to the Central Government requesting the waiver of this amount. In response, the Union Home Ministry stated that the amount could be paid in four installments. Dr. Mahant asked what items were used to expend such a large sum, and that a detailed account of this should be provided to the House.
Referring to central-state relations, he said that when Manmohan Singh was Prime Minister and Dr. Raman Singh was Chief Minister, the central government did not demand money from the state in this manner. Responding to this, Home Minister Vijay Sharma said that the letter from the center pertains to the period from the previous government to the present, and its final settlement is currently underway.
The Home Minister stated that the state government aims to eliminate armed Naxalism by March 31, 2026, and subsequently complete the process of withdrawal of central armed forces by March 31, 2027. The Home Minister assured that the Finance Minister and the Chief Minister will take the final decision regarding the payment of this amount, and that it will not impose a significant burden on the state's finances.
Opposition's adjournment motion rejected in the House over paddy collection
Raipur . The Chhattisgarh Assembly witnessed a huge uproar on Tuesday over the issue of paddy procurement and storage. Leader of the Opposition Dr. Charandas Mahant moved an adjournment motion over reports of rats eating the stored paddy, which was rejected by the Chair. Following this, opposition MLAs began shouting slogans and creating a ruckus in the House, with several members even entering the sanctum sanctorum.
Presenting the adjournment motion, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Charandas Mahant said that rats are eating the paddy produced by the hard work of farmers, which is a serious matter and should be discussed immediately in the House. Supporting this demand, Kharsia MLA Umesh Patel said that reports of rats damaging paddy are coming from several districts of the state.During this, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel targeted the government, saying that a government that claims good governance has committed a major misstep. He alleged that a shortage of approximately 2.271 million quintals of paddy has been detected, resulting in losses worth crores of rupees. He sarcastically said that government employees are maligning rats to hide their own negligence.
Responding to the opposition's allegations, Food Minister Dayal Das Baghel stated that 14.9 million metric tons of paddy has been purchased from approximately 2.5 million farmers in the state, and that payments totaling ₹46,277 crore have been made to the farmers. He clarified that the claims of rats eating the paddy are completely false.
The minister stated that approximately 67,000 tons of paddy has been stored safely at paddy collection centers and that show-cause notices have been issued to 78 employees in connection with the matter. He also stated that rice mills do not have any remaining paddy and the process of collecting rice is ongoing.
