Raipur: On the occasion of International Women's Day, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai honored the women officers of the Public Relations Department of Chhattisgarh for their excellent work in the 'Mahtari Vandan Abhinandan' program organized at the Chief Minister's residence, Raipur. During this, he described the role of women as important in society and governance and praised their hard work, dedication and efficiency.

Raipur: Administrative preparations are going on in full swing for the program of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Bilaspur on March 30. A huge public meeting of the Prime Minister will be held in village Mohbhattha of Bilha.Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Tokhan Sahu and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao inspected the site today and took stock of the preparations. He reviewed the preparations by holding a meeting with the officials and gave necessary instructions.

Raipur: Deputy Chief Minister and Minister in-charge of Bilaspur district Shri Arun Saw inaugurated the divisional Saras Mela at Mungeli Naka ground in Bilaspur today.While inaugurating the fair, he said that this Saras Mela, organised to strengthen the rural economy, is a medium to provide market to the local products and to empower women as well as rural communities.Today, the sisters of the self-help groups are becoming self-reliant and are becoming the economic support of their families. Sisters from all the districts of the division have come to exhibit their art. Other women will also get inspiration from them by coming here and they too will move towards self-reliance.In the fair, women from 55 self-help groups of Bilaspur division have set up an exhibition in 52 stalls to sell their products. This fair will continue till March 12.

Raipur: On the "Mahtari Vandan Yojana" dedicated to the respect and empowerment of women, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai released 'Mahtari Vandan Comics' in the Mahtari Vandan Abhinandan ceremony organized at the Chief Minister's residence today.This comic presents the achievements and impact of the Mahtari Vandan Yojana in an interesting way. Chief Minister Shri Sai described this initiative as an innovative effort to widely spread the objectives and public message of the scheme.

Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has congratulated and wished the Indian cricket team for its spectacular victory in the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In this exciting match played in Dubai, India registered a historic victory by defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets.

Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai received courtesy visit from the Peethadheeshwar of Sindhu Amardham Tirth, Bilaspur, Pujya Sant Shri Laldas Saheb at the Chief Minister's residence office today. The Chief Minister gave a warm welcome to Pujya Sant Shri Laldas Saheb by presenting him a shawl, coconut and a memento.

Raipur. Chhattisgarh Finance Minister OP Choudhary presented the budget in the assembly on Monday. During the budget speech, he rhymed lines from different poems in Chhattisgarhi. After the budget speech, Baghel said that it was a single mic podcast. It was not a budget speech, it was a kavi sammelan.Choudhary had mentioned the great men of Chhattisgarh, martyr Veer Narayan Singh, Guru Ghasidas Baba in his poems recited in the budget speech. Because of this, Baghel is on the target of BJP. 

The Bharatiya Janata Party accused former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel of insulting the Satnami community and the tribal community of the state.BJP's state media chief Amit Chimnani said that the children, old and young of Chhattisgarh start their day by paying obeisance to Baba Guru Ghasidas. When the thought of any bravery comes up in Chhattisgarh, the names of Veer Gundadhur and Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh are taken.Instead of Ram Ram, we say Jai Johar and for us Chhattisgarh is no less than a pilgrimage place. Chimanani said, with these words, the state's Finance Minister OP Choudhary started his budget speech. Bhupesh Baghel is calling it a kavi sammelan.Baghel has played with the faith of lakhs of people in Chhattisgarh who believe in Veer Gundadhur and Baba Guru Ghasidas ji. He has insulted the culture associated with our great heroes of our tribal society and Satnami society

Raipur : At the Cabinet Meeting chaired by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today at Mahanadi Bhavan, following important decisions were taken.    

Approval of Chhattisgarh Excise Policy for FY 2025-26

The cabinet has approved the Chhattisgarh Excise Policy for the financial year 2025-26, which will remain similar to the policy of 2024-25. A total of 674 liquor shops, along with premium liquor outlets as required, will continue to operate. The supply of country liquor will adhere to the existing rate offer. The wholesale procurement and distribution of foreign liquor will continue to be managed by Chhattisgarh State Beverages Corporation Limited. The infrastructure development fee on liquor will remain unchanged, while the additional excise duty of 9.5% on retail foreign liquor outlets will be abolished.  

For the upcoming financial year 2025-26, the Excise Policy has decided to abolish the "Additional Excise Duty" previously imposed on foreign liquor. This duty was equivalent to 9.5% of the liquor procurement price set by the Chhattisgarh State Marketing Corporation.

As a result, the retail prices of foreign liquor, particularly in the medium and high-range categories, will decrease, thereby curbing the smuggling of such liquor from other states. The removal of this additional duty is expected to reduce the retail prices of various ranges of foreign liquor by approximately ₹40 to ₹3,000 per bottle.

*Approval of Chhattisgarh Public Premises (Eviction) (Amendment) Bill, 2025*

 The cabinet has approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Public Premises (Eviction) (Amendment) Bill, 2025.  

*Dissolution of the Empowered Committee for E-Procurement*  

To enhance the Ease of Doing Business, the Cabinet has decided to dissolve the Empowered Committee constituted for e-procurement. Presently, the PFIC approves projects exceeding Rs 100 crore, and large IT projects already require approval from an empowered committee. This duplication of the approval process necessitated the committee’s dissolution.  

*Creation of a New Post for Consumer Dispute Redressal in Chhattisgarh*

Cabinet has approved the creation of an additional member post, to ensure expedited resolution of pending cases in the Chhattisgarh State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission and to facilitate timely hearings on consumer matters.  

*Approval of Recommended Transport Rates for Paddy and Rice*  

 The cabinet has approved the rates recommended by the state-level committee for paddy and rice transportation under the Minimum Support Price scheme for Kharif marketing years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25.  

Approval of Chhattisgarh Labour Laws Amendment and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill, 2025 

 Cabinet has approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Labour Laws Amendment and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill, 2025, which includes amendments to the Factories Act, 1948, the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, and the Trade Unions Act, 1976.  

Approval of Chhattisgarh Registration (Amendment) Bill, 2025

The cabinet has approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Registration (Amendment) Bill, 2025.One-Time Relaxation in Service Criteria for Promotion of Sub-Registrars 

To ensure the smooth functioning of registry offices, the Cabinet has decided to grant a one-time relaxation in the required five-year qualifying service for filling nine vacant promotion-grade posts of Deputy Registrars in the Commercial Tax (Registration) Department.  

Amendment to Chhattisgarh Store Purchase Rules, 2002 for Industrial Development Policy Implementation

The Industrial Development Policy 2024-30 has been in effect since November 1, 2024. To further strengthen its implementation, the Cabinet has approved a proposed amendment to the Chhattisgarh Store Purchase Rules, 2002, as presented by the Department of Commerce and Industry.  

MoU with The Art of Living for Rural Development and Livelihood Generation

 Cabinet has authorized State Government's Good Governance and Convergence Department to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Vyakti Vikas Kendra India (The Art of Living) for livelihood generation and the welfare of rural Chhattisgarh.

Pharma, Real Estate, and IT Sector Representatives Meet Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur : Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that Chhattisgarh is a state brimming with immense potential for industrial development and new entrepreneurship. The state is rich in forests, minerals, and energy resources and is among the surplus states in power production. These factors create a conducive environment for setting up industries. The government is actively supporting investors and entrepreneurs to boost economic growth and generate new employment opportunities in the state.

Chief Minister Shri Sai made these remarks during a discussion with representatives from the Pharma, Real Estate, and IT sectors at his official residence in the capital. Also present at the meeting were Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Shri Subodh Singh, Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. Basavaraju S., Shri P. Dayanand, Shri Rahul Bhagat, Industry Secretary Shri Rajat Kumar, and Managing Director Shri Vishwesh Jha.

New Industrial Policy 2024-30 to Facilitate Industry Establishment

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Chhattisgarh has implemented a new Industrial Development Policy 2024-30, making it easier and more convenient for investors to set up industries. The policy includes an online application system and fast-tracked processing, ensuring a transparent and swift investment process. Additionally, the ‘Single Window 2.0’ system has been introduced to streamline the approval process, eliminating hurdles for investors.

New Industrial Parks to Boost Investments

Chief Minister Shri Sai further highlighted that the state government is establishing new industrial parks to provide industries with the necessary infrastructure and resources. This initiative will create a supportive ecosystem for new entrepreneurs, helping them strengthen their businesses. The move will not only increase the number of industrial units in the state but also generate significant employment opportunities.

Record Investment Proposals for Chhattisgarh: Focus on Semiconductor and AI Sectors for the First Time

Chief Minister Shri Sai revealed that since the implementation of the new industrial policy, Chhattisgarh has received investment proposals worth ₹1.23 lakh crore. The government is actively promoting AI, IT, data centers, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and robotics sectors. As a result, for the first time, Chhattisgarh has received investment proposals in the semiconductor, data center, and AI-based industries, marking a major milestone in the state's industrial development.

Positive Dialogue on Industrial Investments

During the meeting, Chief Minister Shri Sai assured industry representatives that the Chhattisgarh government is committed to providing full support to entrepreneurs. He highlighted that the state’s industrial policies are transparent, clear, and investor-friendly, making it an attractive destination for domestic and international businesses.

Chief Minister Shri Sai invited investors to establish their businesses in Chhattisgarh, assuring them of the state government’s complete cooperation in ensuring their success. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to economic growth and innovation, positioning Chhattisgarh as a key player in India’s industrial future.This proactive approach by the Chhattisgarh government aims to pave the way for economic prosperity and innovative industrial expansion in the state.

The meeting was attended by several prominent entrepreneurs and investors, including Gaurav Chauhan from Mankind Pharma, Vikaas Khdloya, CEO of Embassy REIT, Shradha Sharma, Founder of YourStory and Rohit Kashyap, Founder of Maytree School of Entrepreneurship.

Raipur : The Rajim Kumbh Kalp, a grand spiritual and cultural congregation held in Gariaband district of Chhattisgarh, is rapidly gaining international recognition. This year’s festival witnessed an unprecedented influx of devotees, drawing not only pilgrims from across India but also enthusiastic visitors from around the world.

For many, it was a deeply immersive experience. Sinis from the Netherlands, who attended for the first time, shared, "The warmth of the people and the profound spirituality of this place have left a lasting impression on me. This is truly a remarkable experience!" Similarly, Zubeto and Patricia from Italy expressed their awe, saying, "We came to witness the spiritual, religious, and mystical essence of India, and Rajim Kumbh Kalp is an extraordinary confluence of devotion and heritage. It has completely mesmerized us."

*Foreign Tourists Captivated by the Grandeur of Rajim Kumbh Kalp*

Visitors from the Netherlands, Germany, South Africa, and Italy marveled at the expansive 54-acre Rajim Kumbh Kalp, deeply appreciating its spiritual and architectural magnificence. They were particularly drawn to the ancient sculptures and intricate carvings of the Rajiv Lochan Temple and Kuleshwar Nath Mahadev Temple, situated at the sacred Triveni Sangam.

Many foreign visitors participated in the grand procession of Naga Sadhus on Mahashivratri, witnessing the majestic spectacle of ascetic traditions firsthand. Enthralled by the vibrant decorations, the divine atmosphere of the Sant Samagam area, and the sacred rituals, they enthusiastically exclaimed – "It’s absolutely wonderful!"

Their excitement was evident as they watched the Naga Sadhus’ grand procession and their displays of discipline and valor, capturing the essence of India's ancient spiritual traditions. Many tourists also interacted with saints, sought blessings, and gained insights into the austere lifestyle of the Naga Sadhus. They documented their experiences through photographs and videos, even taking selfies with festival attendees to commemorate the moment.

*Rajim Kumbh Kalp – A Global Stage for India’s Spiritual and Cultural Legacy*

The increasing international recognition of Rajim Kumbh Kalp underscores its emergence as a prestigious global platform for Indian spirituality, traditions, and cultural consciousness. The presence of foreign visitors has elevated its global appeal, setting the stage for even greater international participation in the coming years.

Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the Chhattisgarh government is committed to expanding Rajim Kumbh Kalp into a grand, divine, and unforgettable experience. This festival is not just a celebration of faith but a glorious testament to India’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage on the world stage.

Raipur : "The Maha Kumbh 2025 is being held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. I urge the people of Chhattisgarh to participate in this sacred event. You need not worry about accommodation or meals—our government has established the Chhattisgarh Pavilion over 4.5 acres in Sector 6 of the Kumbh Mela area, providing free lodging and food for all devotees."

With these words, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai had earlier invited the people of Chhattisgarh to experience the spiritual grandeur of Maha Kumbh 2025. Understanding the aspirations of his people, CM Sai collaborated with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath to secure a dedicated space for Chhattisgarh devotees, ensuring they could participate in the world’s largest spiritual congregation without any worries.

As a result, for 45 days, the Chhattisgarh Pavilion served as a home for over 50,000 devotees, enabling them to take a holy dip in the Sangam and immerse themselves in the Kumbh’s spiritual energy. As the Maha Kumbh 2025 came to a grand conclusion, it left behind unforgettable memories for Chhattisgarh’s devotees, a legacy made possible by CM Vishnu Deo Sai’s visionary leadership.

*Chhattisgarh Pavilion: A Cultural and Spiritual Marvel at the Maha Kumbh*

The Chhattisgarh Pavilion in Sector 6 of the Kumbh Mela wasn’t just a welcoming abode for devotees from the state—it became a major attraction for pilgrims and tourists from across India and the world. The exhibitions and cultural displays drew large crowds daily, offering visitors a glimpse into Chhattisgarh’s rich heritage, traditions, and spirituality.

Unlike other state pavilions that closed by 8 PM, the Chhattisgarh Pavilion remained lively until 10 PM, hosting vibrant cultural performances that enthralled audiences from all over India. Chhattisgarh’s folk artists captivated the Maha Kumbh with their performances, drawing admiration beyond linguistic and cultural boundaries.

The entrance to the pavilion was adorned with the iconic ‘Gaur Mukut’ of Bastar, an architectural masterpiece that instantly attracted visitors. Inside, the statue of Chhattisgarh Mahtari (Mother Chhattisgarh) stood as a symbol of maternal warmth and cultural pride. Devotees bowed in reverence before the images of the four revered deities of the state—Maa Mahamaya, Maa Danteshwari, Maa Bamleshwari, and Maa Chandrahasini.

The exhibition area featured an impressive display of Chhattisgarh’s history and progress, leaving visitors mesmerized by the state’s wonders, including the ancient Buddhist site of Sirpur, the towering Jaitkham, taller than Qutub Minar, the breathtaking Chitrakote Waterfall, known as Niagara of India, and The modern city of Naya Raipur

*Technology-Driven Tourism Promotion*

To enhance visitor engagement, advanced technology was seamlessly integrated into the exhibition. A 360-degree immersive dome, offering a breathtaking virtual tour of Chhattisgarh, saw long queues of eager visitors. Virtual Reality (VR) experiences, allowed attendees to explore Chhattisgarh in an interactive manner.

The exhibition also showcased Chhattisgarh’s rural lifestyle, folk art, jewelry, cuisine, dance, and wildlife, making it a major talking point in both regional and national media.

*A Pavilion That Stood for Unity, Inclusivity, and Hospitality*

As Maha Kumbh 2025 came to a historic conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed it as the ‘Kumbh of Unity’—and the Chhattisgarh Pavilion embodied this spirit. It offered free meals to all, regardless of caste, creed, or nationality, welcoming even international visitors, who left with a deep sense of admiration for Chhattisgarh’s hospitality and culture.

*CM Vishnu Deo Sai Congratulates UP CM Yogi Adityanath on the Success of Maha Kumbh 2025*

Following the event, CM Vishnu Deo Sai personally congratulated Uttar Pradesh CM Shri Yogi Adityanath for the successful hosting of Maha Kumbh 2025 and thanked him for allocating 4.5 acres for the Chhattisgarh Pavilion.

Through his visionary leadership and tireless dedication, CM Vishnu Deo Sai enabled 50,000 Chhattisgarh devotees to be part of Maha Kumbh 2025, thereby connecting the state’s 3 crore citizens to this grand spiritual celebration.

Chhattisgarh’s saints, scholars, and devotees participated in the sacred dip at the Sangam and various spiritual rituals, strengthening the state’s cultural and religious presence on the national stage.

This initiative has not only established Chhattisgarh as a prominent spiritual hub but has also positioned it on the global stage as a land of deep cultural and religious significance.

*A Legacy That Will Inspire Generations*

Under CM Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership, Chhattisgarh has made an unforgettable mark at the Maha Kumbh, proving that faith, tradition, and culture transcend boundaries.

The Chhattisgarh Pavilion was more than just a resting place for devotees—it became a cultural bridge, a spiritual landmark, and a powerful representation of Chhattisgarh’s rich heritage.

This initiative was not just a pilgrimage—it was a transformational experience that strengthened Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity and showcased its spiritual legacy to the world.

Dhamtari : In a ground-breaking initiative, a district's strategic shift from summer paddy cultivation to pulses and oilseeds has not only saved precious water resources but also resulted in a whopping 2,641 crore rupees in profit for farmers. 

Parastarai village in Chhattisgarh’s Dhamtari district, once grappling with severe water shortages, is now a beacon of agricultural transformation. Elders of the village recall a time when even after digging wells up to 200 feet, water was scarce, and the rising electricity costs for irrigation were unsustainable. Yet, despite these challenges, paddy cultivation remained their identity and livelihood - something that no one could imagine giving up.

Over the course of the year, a progressive initiative by the district administration helped shift the mindset of local farmers. They were encouraged to adopt less water-consuming crops, like pulses and oilseeds, instead of the water-intensive paddy. As a result, paddy cultivation in the district dropped by a remarkable 6,283 hectares, reducing water usage by an estimated 7,500 crore litres.

In total, 28,000 farmers from 265 villages attended educational camps, where experts, agricultural officials, and students from agriculture and livelihood colleges emphasized the importance of water conservation. These camps played a pivotal role in shifting the focus towards growing more water-efficient crops like gram, sunflower, mustard, linseed, and sesame.

What began as a small shift in Parastarai village soon gained momentum throughout Dhamtari district. Today, farmers in 494 out of the 653 villages have adopted pulses and oilseeds, moving away from paddy cultivation. This change has led to a remarkable profit of Rs 2,641 crore, with the additional benefit of improved groundwater levels. The shift to less water-intensive crops has significantly reduced electricity consumption, which has further decreased farmers' costs, making agriculture more sustainable.

The environmental and economic benefits of this change are evident. While paddy cultivation requires 1.2 crore litres of water per hectare over 120 days, pulses and oilseeds use just 40 lakh litres over 80 days for the same area. The reduction in water usage has saved an estimated 7,500 crore litres of water, helping to replenish the region’s groundwater supply. 

According to agricultural experts, this change in cropping patterns has resulted in a substantial reduction in electricity consumption. By shifting away from paddy, which requires extensive irrigation, about 151 crore units of electricity have been saved - a saving worth approximately 754 crores.

Raipur  : Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai paid heartfelt tribute to the legendary freedom fighter Amar Shaheed Chandrashekhar Azad on his death anniversary, observed on February 27.

Hailing Azad as an immortal icon of India’s freedom struggle, CM Sai said, “His unwavering commitment to the motherland and indomitable courage continue to inspire generations. Azad fought relentlessly for India's independence, refusing to surrender to British rule until his last breath. His sacrifice remains a timeless testament to patriotism, self-respect, and valor, igniting the revolutionary spirit in countless young Indians.”

Chief Minister Shri Sai further emphasized that Chandrashekhar Azad’s life epitomizes sacrifice, resilience, and fearless determination. “His legacy is a beacon of inspiration, urging us to uphold national pride and contribute tirelessly towards the progress and prosperity of our nation,” he added.

Raipur, February 26, 2025: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai today visited the Shri Rajiv Lochan Temple, offering prayers for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh. At the sacred Triveni Sangam, he also performed Jalabhishek at Shri Kuleshwar Nath Mahadev Temple, seeking divine blessings for the state’s growth and development.

Highlighting the deep spiritual and cultural significance of Rajim Kumbh Kalp, CM Sai remarked, “This grand gathering is not just a religious event but a profound confluence of our heritage, traditions, and spiritual consciousness, reinforcing the rich cultural ethos of Chhattisgarh.”

Participates in the Grand ‘Mahanadi Maiya’ Aarti

Later, the Chief Minister participated in the majestic ‘Mahanadi Maiya Maha Aarti’, performed with elaborate Vedic rituals, resonating chants, and the divine sound of conch shells. Praying for harmony, progress, and collective well-being, he underscored the festival’s role in fostering unity and spiritual awakening.

The event witnessed the presence of Food Minister Dayal Das Baghel, Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, Rajim MLA Rohit Sahu, Basna MLA Sampat Agarwal, along with revered saints, dignitaries, and thousands of devotees, marking a momentous celebration of faith and devotion.

Raipur : Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has announced that the historical Hindi film ‘Chhava’ will be tax-free in Chhattisgarh, enabling more people to experience the inspiring saga of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The announcement was made during a media interaction following the Rajim Kumbh celebrations.

CM Sai stated that the decision to exempt ‘Chhava’ from tax is aimed at connecting the people of Chhattisgarh with India's glorious history and instilling a sense of patriotism and valor among the youth. “‘Chhava’ is not just a film; it is a tribute to our historical traditions, courage, and self-respect. Every citizen should watch it to understand the legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj,” he said.

A Film That Revives History and Inspires Generations

The film portrays the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and strategic brilliance of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who fought fiercely against the Mughals and other invaders. It vividly brings to life his indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to the nation, reinforcing a deep sense of nationalism.

With the tax exemption, cinema enthusiasts across the state will benefit from reduced ticket prices, ensuring a wider audience can watch and draw inspiration from this historic masterpiece.

CM Sai reaffirmed his government’s commitment to promoting films that inspire society and preserve cultural consciousness. He emphasized that Chhattisgarh will continue supporting historical, cultural, and patriotic films to ensure that future generations remain connected to India's glorious past.

Raipur : Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addressed the grand closing ceremony of Rajim Kumbh Kalp, reaffirming its status as a sacred confluence of spirituality, social harmony, and cultural unity.

Speaking at Rajim, often hailed as the ‘Prayagraj of Chhattisgarh’, CM Sai emphasized that Rajim Kumbh Kalp is not just a religious congregation but a monumental celebration of Chhattisgarh’s rich traditions, heritage, and devotion.

"From Magh Purnima to Mahashivratri, thousands of devotees gather at the Triveni Sangam to take a holy dip and seek blessings from revered saints. This festival embodies the soul of our state, fostering unity, devotion, and cultural pride," he stated.

Reviving the Grandeur of Rajim Kumbh Kalp

CM Sai highlighted that Rajim Kumbh Kalp was first initiated in 2005, gaining immense support from the people and the blessings of saints. However, disruptions in recent years had impacted its traditional form."In 2023, the people of Chhattisgarh reinstated their trust in us, allowing the festival to reclaim its former grandeur. We have expanded the event to 54 acres, ensuring improved infrastructure and a larger, more inclusive gathering for devotees," he announced.

Chief Minister Shri Sai reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further expanding and elevating Rajim Kumbh Kalp, making it one of India’s premier spiritual and cultural events.

Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana – Strengthening Devotion to Ayodhya

Highlighting the Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana, CM Sai emphasized that the government is facilitating pilgrimages to Ayodhya Dham and Kashi Vishwanath, with over 20,000 devotees benefiting from the initiative so far.

"The consecration of Shri Ramlala in Ayodhya, after 500 years of devotion and struggle, is a historic milestone for our nation. We are proud to help devotees from Chhattisgarh witness this divine moment," he stated.

Empowering Farmers – Chhattisgarh’s Agricultural Growth

CM Sai underscored his government’s commitment to Chhattisgarh’s agricultural sector, announcing that the state has achieved record-breaking paddy procurement this year.

"Last year, we procured 145 lakh metric tons of paddy. This year, we surpassed it with 149 lakh metric tons. Our promise to buy paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal and ensure direct payments to farmers within a week has been fulfilled," he affirmed.

Drawing inspiration from the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, where over 70 crore devotees participated, CM Sai outlined his vision for scaling up Rajim Kumbh Kalp to national prominence. He said that Chhattisgarh had secured 4.5 acres of land in Prayagraj, where a dedicated Chhattisgarh Pavilion had been established. Over 25,000 devotees from the state benefitted from free accommodation, meals, and spiritual services at this facility.

"This initiative strengthens Chhattisgarh’s religious and cultural footprint on a national level, ensuring our heritage receives the recognition it deserves," he added.

Fostering Cultural and Folk Art Traditions

Chief Minister Shri Sai praised the role of folk artists and cultural performers, who enhanced the vibrancy of Rajim Kumbh Kalp with their spectacular performances. He assured that state support for cultural and religious festivals will continue, ensuring better infrastructure, accessibility, and facilities for devotees in the coming years.

"Rajim Kumbh Kalp is a testament to our faith, culture, and social unity. It connects us to our roots and keeps our Sanatan traditions alive for future generations," he stated.

Addressing the gathering, Food Minister Shri Dayaldas Baghel emphasized that Rajim Kumbh is a cultural heritage that must be preserved and promoted. Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap urged collective efforts to protect sacred rivers and water bodies. The ceremony was attended by Kurud MLA Ajay Chandrakar, Rajim MLA Rohit Sahu, Basna MLA Sampat Agarwal, Abhanpur MLA Indra Kumar Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary Subrat Sahu, Raipur Divisional Commissioner Mahadev Kavre, Chhattisgarh Tourism MD Vivek Acharya, and Gariaband Collector Deepak Kumar Agarwal, along with eminent saints, religious leaders, and thousands of devotees.

New Delhi. Rekha Gupta took oath as the new Chief Minister of Delhi on Thursday, but in this ceremony a scene was also seen which caught everyone's attention.When Prime Minister Narendra Modi came on the stage, he met all the NDA leaders, but when the turn of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai came, the atmosphere seemed different.

Prime Minister Modi held the hand of Vishnudev Sai in a very intimate manner – and then what! For a few moments this scene on the stage became special.PM Modi not only shook hands, but also held Vishnudev Sai's hand for a long time, kept asking about his well-being and discussed about the development of Chhattisgarh.

Raipur : Aiming to provide a powerful platform for local talent, promote physical fitness, and highlight the natural scenic beauty of the area, the 'Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon 2025' is all set to be organized on March 2 in Narayanpur. With over 5,000 participants already registered, this marathon has become more than just a race – it is a powerful symbol of hope, unity, and the transformative power of sports to inspire change.

Abujhmad, known for its scenic beauty and rich culture, has long been overshadowed by the fear and instability caused by Naxal activities. This marathon seeks to transform this narrative by providing a platform where individuals of all skill levels can come together in a spirit of unity, healthy competition, and mutual understanding. The marathon will feature multiple race categories, including a Half Marathon (21 km), 10 km, and 5 km, ensuring that everyone – from athletes to first-time runners to local participants – can engage in this empowering event. With state-of-the-art timing systems, dedicated pacers, medical support, and hydration stations, the marathon promises a professional and inclusive experience for all.

“This event is a symbol of resilience and hope. By bringing people together through the universal language of sports, we aim to not only promote physical fitness but also send a strong message of peace and unity. It’s time to show the world that Abujhmad is not defined by Maoism but by the potential of its people,” said Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai.

Leading up to the main event, the organizing committee has already conducted successful promotional marathons. A 5-kilometer promo marathon was held on January 5 this year, where Tiju Pujari, Laxman Poyam, and Birsingh Salam emerged as winners in the male category, while Somrai Gota, Reena Uike, and Bhumika Dewangan topped the female category. Following this, a 10-kilometer mini marathon took place on January 19 in Narayanpur, with over 800 runners participating. Purkeshwar Lal Deshmukh, Rassu Kores, and Budhram Kumeti claimed the top spots in the male category, while Muskan Kushwaha, Bhumika Devangan, and Sombai Gota emerged as winners in the female category.

In addition to a top-notch race experience, other facilities are also being ensured for the convenience of participants. Parking facilities, accommodation, and food will be available for participants. Aid stations along the course will provide drinking water, electrolyte drinks, sweet snacks, glucose, salted biscuits, fruits, ice, and primary first aid. Recovery/Resting Tents will also be set up. 

Participants will benefit from live tracking systems, offering real-time updates throughout the race. The route will be clearly marked with LED indicators, ensuring smooth navigation for all runners. Medical support stations will be available throughout the event, ensuring participants' safety and well-being at all times. Experienced pacers will guide runners in each race category, helping them stay on pace and achieve their goals.

To ensure a truly memorable experience, the marathon festivities will kick off with a Jadu Bastar Concert by the band DAIRA on February 28. The excitement will build up with a breathtaking drone show and an Abujhmad Mallakhamb performance on March 1. The event will also feature a cultural showcase, with traditional dances, local art exhibitions, and performances celebrating the rich heritage of Bastar. In addition to its sporting significance, the marathon aims to bring national attention to Abujhmad’s untapped beauty and potential boosting development of the area.