Villagers participated enthusiastically, completed the work of employment demand registration and job card updating.

Raipur/ Employment Day was organized in all gram panchayats of Jashpur district to effectively implement the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) and provide timely employment to rural families. A large number of villagers participated, registering their demand for employment and learning about various government welfare schemes.

During Employment Day, special camps were organized in gram panchayats to provide villagers with detailed information about the process of obtaining employment under MNREGA, including job card creation and amendment, work demand registration, wage payment system, and various provisions of the scheme. Public representatives, employment assistants, technical assistants, and panchayat workers actively participated in the program.

During this period, applications for employment were received for future projects, and new job cards were created for eligible families and old ones were updated. Complaints and problems received at the Panchayat level were promptly resolved, and villagers were encouraged to take maximum advantage of the schemes.

Special focus on water conservation works

On Employment Day, villagers were also informed about water conservation and enhancement works being carried out under MNREGA. It was explained that through works such as soak pits, contour trenches, water absorption trenches (WAT), new drains, livelihood ponds, pond construction, and tree planting, employment opportunities are being created in the district, while on the other hand, conservation of natural resources and groundwater enrichment are also being promoted.

These works are significantly improving water levels, increasing agricultural productivity, and boosting the incomes of rural families. Through MNREGA, the dual objectives of development and livelihood empowerment are being successfully pursued in the district.

Special emphasis on participation of women and youth

During the program, special emphasis was placed on ensuring maximum participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups. Efforts were made to provide information about MNREGA and livelihood promotion activities to women in self-help groups and connect them with various self-employment and employment-oriented schemes.

The objective of Employment Day, regularly organized by the district administration, is to provide timely employment to every interested rural family, increase awareness about the scheme, and strengthen public participation in development work at the village level. Employment Day not only provides villagers with information about schemes but also provides an effective platform for resolving their problems.

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the 55th Central Convention of the Chandranahu (Chandrakar) Kurmi Kshatriya Community at the Agricultural Produce Market Yard in Chhati village of Dhamtari district on June 7.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that an organised, educated and aware community is the true strength behind nation-building. The stronger a community becomes, the more progressive, prosperous and self-reliant the nation will be. He stated that it is a privilege for him to participate in the prestigious gathering.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the Chandranahu Kurmi Kshatriya Community is a custodian of rich traditions, social awareness, organisational strength and exemplary values. He noted that the community has produced great personalities for the nation, such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose ideals continue to inspire public service and nation-building.

The Chief Minister stated that any community progresses through education, organisation, values and social responsibility. He observed that the Chandranahu community has made significant contributions in agriculture, education, administration, politics, social service and entrepreneurship, playing an important role in the development of both the state and the nation. He added that the younger generation is writing a new chapter of progress through education, technological skills and innovation.

On the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai announced several important development initiatives for the area. He announced the construction of the Chhati–Jhuranavagaon road, the initiation of the process to grant Nagar Panchayat status to Chhati village, the construction of a new Higher Secondary School building and the allocation of land in Nava Raipur for a community hall. The announcements received enthusiastic applause from the people.

The Chief Minister stated that such conventions are not merely social events but effective platforms for strengthening community awareness, unity and empowerment. When members of the community come together to exchange ideas, share experiences, and guide the younger generation, new opportunities for social development and collective progress emerge.

He appreciated the community’s tradition of honouring individuals and students who have achieved excellence in administrative services, education, sports, business and other fields. He said that a culture of recognition encourages healthy competition and excellence within society and inspires young people to achieve greater success.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that education is the true strength of any community and serves as the foundation of social and economic progress. He noted that the state government is effectively implementing various welfare schemes to expand educational opportunities and ensure students’ holistic development. He urged all sections of the community to make the most of these initiatives.

The Chief Minister appealed to entrepreneurs and businesspersons from the community to study the state government’s new industrial policy and take advantage of emerging investment opportunities.

He said that Chhattisgarh has created a favourable environment for industry and investment. The new industrial policy includes several incentives for youth, entrepreneurs, and investors that will generate new employment opportunities and accelerate economic growth across the state.

Chief Minister attended the 55th Central Convention of Chandranahu Kurmi Kshatriya Samaj, praised the unity and organizational strength of the community.

Declaration of land for Chhati-Jhuranwagaon road, new higher secondary building, Nagar Panchayat and community building in Nava Raipur

Raipur / An organized, educated, and aware society is the true power for building a strong nation. The stronger the society, the more progressive, prosperous, and self-reliant the nation will become. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said this today while addressing the 55th Central Convention of the Chandranahu (Chandrakar) Kurmi-Kshatriya Samaj, held at the Agricultural Produce Market Complex in Chhati village of Dhamtari district.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that it is a privilege for him to attend the central convention of this prestigious community. He said that the Chandranahu Kurmi-Kshatriya community bears rich traditions, social consciousness, organizational ability, and excellent values. This is the same community that gave the country great personalities like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose ideals still inspire nation building and public service.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that any society progresses continuously on the strength of education, organization, culture, and social responsibility. The Chandranahu community has played a significant role in the development of the state and the country by making notable contributions in various fields, including agriculture, education, administration, politics, social service, and entrepreneurship. The new generation of the community is writing a new chapter of development through education, technical expertise, and innovation.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister made several important announcements for the development of the area. He announced the construction of a road from Chhati to Jhuranwagaon, the initiation of the process to grant village Chhati the status of a Nagar Panchayat in the future, the construction of a new Higher Secondary School building, and the provision of land for a community building in Nava Raipur. The Chief Minister's announcements were enthusiastically welcomed by the people present.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that such conventions are not just social events, but effective platforms for organizing, raising awareness, and empowering society. When members of society come together to discuss, share experiences, and set a direction for the next generation, new possibilities for social unity and development emerge.

He commended society for honoring talented individuals and students who have achieved outstanding achievements in administrative services, education, sports, business, and other fields, saying that a culture of recognition fosters positive competition and excellence in society. Such efforts inspire young people to move forward and achieve new milestones.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that education is the true strength of any society. Quality education is the foundation of social and economic progress. The state government is effectively implementing numerous public welfare schemes for the all-round development of students and the expansion of education. He called on all sections of society to take maximum advantage of these schemes.

The Chief Minister urged entrepreneurs and business leaders to study the state government's new industrial policy and take advantage of investment opportunities. He stated that a favorable environment for industry and investment has been created in Chhattisgarh. The new industrial policy provides numerous incentives for youth, entrepreneurs, and investors. This will create new employment opportunities and boost the state's economy.

At the event, Chief Minister Shri Sai also released the book "Adbhut Shri Tulsi Charitayanam," based on the cultural and literary heritage of society. During the event, officers and employees selected and working in administrative services, various prestigious institutions, and other fields, as well as talented students who excelled in academics and sports, were honored.

Results announced for the competition on “Inspired by Nature, Protect the Climate and the Future”

Raipur, On the occasion of World Environment Day, Finance, Housing and Environment Minister Mr. O.P. Choudhary honored the winners of a painting competition titled "Inspired by Nature, Protect the Climate and the Future," organized by the Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board. Students and differently-abled participants from various age groups enthusiastically participated in the competition, presenting their creative thinking on environmental conservation through paintings.

In the first age group (up to 12 years), Ms. Siddhi Verma, a student of Krishna Public School, Sarona, secured first place, Ms. Kavya Vishwakarma of Holy Cross Girls School, Raipur secured second place, and Ms. K. Tejaswini of Krishna Public School, Dunda secured third place. Consolation prizes were awarded to Ms. Pratyusha Shukla, Ms. Arpita Lahar, and Ms. Ditipriya Chaudhary.

In the second age group (13 to 17 years), Hitesh Yadav, a student of Sages School, Abhanpur, came first, Ms. Hema Sahu of Shivom Vidyapeeth, Raipur, came second, and Priyanshu Sahu, a student of The Asian Academy, came third. Consolation prizes were awarded to Bhavesh Prajapati, Mousumi Sahu, and Chhabi Sahu.

In the third age group (18 to 21 years), Ms. Tannu Janghel, a student of Science College, Raipur, took first place, Chirag Pasari, a student of Swami Atmanand BD School, Kharora, took second place, and Sachin Janghel, a student of Kalinga University, Raipur, took third place. Consolation prizes were given to Mousumi Diwan and Prince Vishwakarma.

In the disabled category, Ms. Lovely Khutiyare, a student of the Government College for the Disabled, Mana Camp, came first, Anmol Patel second, and Dolly Shivare third. Consolation prizes were awarded to Punaram Nishad, Ms. Pooja, and Ms. Ayesha Khan.

On this occasion, Minister Shri O.P. Chaudhary congratulated the winners and said that the creative participation of children and youth is crucial in raising awareness about environmental protection. He added that only sensitivity and a sense of responsibility towards nature can ensure a safe and clean environment for future generations.

A large number of students, teachers and parents including officers and employees of Chhattisgarh Environment Protection Board were present in the program.

Raipur, Governor Shri Ramen Deka today unveiled the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the Maharashtra Mandal, Raipur, on the occasion of his coronation ceremony. On this occasion, he said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's life is a unique example of courage, self-respect, good governance, and patriotism, which continues to inspire the younger generation.

The Governor said that the coronation of Shivaji Maharaj at Raigad Fort on June 6, 1674, was not just a coronation, but a historic moment for the establishment of independent "Hindavi Swaraj." He said that through his valor, foresight, and skillful leadership, Shivaji Maharaj laid a strong foundation for Swaraj and instilled self-respect and self-confidence in millions of Indians. Describing Shivaji Maharaj as a skilled administrator, a people-loving ruler, and a symbol of religious tolerance, he said that the Ashtapradhan system, organized navy, and public welfare policies established by him are still relevant today.

The Governor praised the Maharashtra Mandal's 91-year history of glorious service, saying that the organization's various social and educational projects are excellent examples of social service. He expressed confidence that the Maharashtra Mandal will continue to make significant contributions to social and nation-building in the future.

Mr. Deka presented prizes of five thousand rupees each to four children who gave excellent cultural performances at the event and also announced the donation of an ambulance to the Maharashtra Mandal. Mayor Mrs. Meenal Choubey, President of the Maharashtra Mandal, Mr. Ajay Madhukar Kale, other officials, and a large number of members of the Maharashtrian community were present on the occasion.

2,705 families of Raigarh district became free from electricity bills.

13.80 lakh units of green electricity are being produced every month

Raipur, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's ambitious Pradhan Mantri Suryaghar Free Electricity Scheme has become a new synonym for green development and energy self-reliance in Chhattisgarh. As a result of the extensive awareness campaigns being run by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, there is huge enthusiasm for solar energy in the state. Raigarh district has emerged as a leader in the entire state by achieving remarkable achievements in this mega-campaign. So far, solar rooftop plants have been successfully installed on the rooftops of 2,705 families in Raigarh district, due to which these families have become completely energy self-reliant.

Achievements of Raigarh district

The 2,705 solar plants installed in Raigarh district have a total capacity of over 11,504 kilowatts. They produce approximately 46,000 units of green electricity per day and approximately 1.38 million units per month. This not only meets consumers' energy needs but also reduces their dependence on traditional energy sources.

Growing public confidence

A total of 6,701 applications have been received so far under the scheme. In May alone, 912 new applications were received, of which 411 homes have already installed solar panels. The district is receiving an average of 228 new applications each week, and more than 100 homes are regularly installing solar panels.

Great relief to consumers in the scorching heat

During this summer, when the use of air conditioners and coolers increases both electricity demand and electricity bills, this scheme is proving to be a safety net for ordinary consumers. Families participating in the scheme are generating most of their own electricity needs, reducing their monthly electricity bills to a negligible level.

The mathematics of subsidies and power generation

According to the Electricity Department, through coordination between the central and state governments, the financial burden on consumers has been minimized. Eligible beneficiaries are being provided with subsidies of up to 1.8 lakh rupees. Easy loans are also available through banks for installing solar plants.

Capacity and production

A 1 kilowatt solar plant produces approximately 120 units of electricity per month. Similarly, a 2 kilowatt solar plant produces approximately 240 units of electricity per month, and a 3 kilowatt solar plant produces approximately 360 units of electricity per month.

The application process is very simple and transparent.

The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme is completely online and free of middlemen. Interested citizens can easily apply through the following means: PM Surya Ghar Portal or mobile app, CSPDCL's departmental digital service, or by calling the toll-free number 1912. Under the online process, consumers can choose their authorized vendor of choice. This growing caravan of solar energy is taking not only Raigarh but the entire Chhattisgarh towards a clean, pollution-free, and green future. This scheme is making the resolve of a self-reliant India a reality on the ground.

Raipur/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has said that farmers should not face any problems in the availability of fertilizers and seeds. Fertilizers and seeds should be made available to small and marginal farmers on a priority basis, and the respective collectors will be responsible for this. The Chief Minister directed agricultural officials to go from village to village to inform farmers about the benefits of Nano Urea and Nano DAP so that modern agricultural techniques can be utilized optimally. He also directed immediate and effective action against illegal sand mining. Chief Minister Shri Sai was addressing the divisional review meeting of the districts of Raipur division in the meeting hall of the Gariaband District Panchayat office today. In this marathon review meeting, which lasted for approximately three and a half hours, a detailed review of development schemes, law and order, public welfare programs, and administrative arrangements was conducted with the collectors, superintendents of police, and senior officials of Raipur, Gariaband, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, and Balodabazar districts.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister took a significant decision to permanently resolve the drinking water problem in the Supebeda area of ​​Gariaband district, approving Rs 7 crore for the construction of an anicut on the Tel River. He said that meeting the basic needs of the people is the government's top priority and that permanent solutions to problems like drinking water must be ensured.

The Chief Minister said that the benefits of government-run public welfare schemes should reach the last person. He gave clear instructions to officials that ordinary citizens should not face any difficulties in availing the benefits of the schemes and that they should work with sensitivity and accountability to minimize public complaints against the administration.

Chief Minister Shri Sai gave instructions for quick resolution of revenue cases, speeding up the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, creation of TB free Panchayats, ensuring 100% coverage of Ayushman cards, timely completion of Jal Jeevan Mission works and providing benefits to eligible beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi.

He said that Good Governance Festival is not just a campaign to resolve complaints, but also a means to understand the ground reality of government schemes and establish direct communication with the public. To this end, he himself is visiting various districts to gather feedback on the implementation of schemes.

The review meeting reviewed in detail the progress of the Prime Minister's Housing Scheme, Prime Minister's Rural Road Scheme, Prime Minister's Free Electricity Scheme for Sun Homes, Ayushman Bharat Scheme, Jal Jeevan Mission, Bihan, Tendu Leaf Collection, Mahatari Vandan Scheme, Social Security Pension, Prime Minister's Kisan Samman Nidhi, and paddy procurement and lifting. The Chief Minister said that merely making Ayushman cards is not enough, but eligible citizens should also be provided with quality treatment and better health facilities.

During the education review, the Chief Minister emphasized improving learning levels in schools, regular monitoring, and promoting innovative teaching methods. He directed that schools lacking subject-matter-specialist teachers should use artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies to improve the quality of education.

The Chief Minister also reviewed law and order, road safety, and the effective implementation of the three new criminal laws implemented in the country. He directed officials to organize training programs for the effective implementation of the new laws, launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign, and effectively promote road safety and drug de-addiction campaigns.

MLA Shri Rohit Sahu, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, Special Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Rajat Bansal, Raipur Divisional Commissioner Shri Shyam Dhavade, IG Shri Amresh Mishra along with public representatives and senior officers of the concerned districts were present in the meeting.

Delivered a detailed address on the progress of society and participation in nation building.

Raipur, Mr. Choudhary said that any society progresses only when it prioritizes education, organization, culture, and social responsibility. He called on the youth of the society to take an active part in the development of the state and nation by advancing in the fields of education, innovation, and leadership.

Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary today attended a program organized by the Chandranahu (Chandrakar) Kurmi-Kshatriya community in Chhati village of Dhamtari district. Addressing the community members on this occasion, he shared his views in detail on various aspects of making the community's role and contribution more effective in the development of Chhattisgarh and the country.

Mr. Chaudhary said that today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is establishing new dimensions of development. At such a time, it is the responsibility of every segment of society to play a positive and constructive role in the nation-building process. Referring to society's glorious traditions, social contributions, and cultural heritage, he emphasized the need to cultivate cultured and capable future generations.

The program was attended by community officials, senior members, youth, and a large number of community members. At the end of the program, slogans of "Raja Ramchandra ki Jai" and "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ki Jai" were raised in an enthusiastic atmosphere, with a resolve to promote community development and national progress.

Raipur, June 6, 2026/ Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti Ji, Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes (Former Union Minister of State, Government of India) will be on a one-day official visit to Raipur (Chhattisgarh) on June 07, 2026.

To assist the Chairman of the National Backward Classes Commission during his visit, Mr. Rajendra Kumar Nishad (Private Secretary, Mob.-8756342092), and Mr. Hrithik Vishwakarma (Mob. 7266050609) will be with the Chairman during the programme.

Chairperson-National Backward Classes Commission Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti ji will depart from New Delhi on 07 June 2026 at 06:30 am and reach Raipur at 08:15 am. She will meet the delegation of backward community at State Guest House, Raipur on 07 June 2026 at 09:30 am.
After paying a courtesy call to the Honorable Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh at 10:30 am, she will pay a courtesy call to the Honorable Governor (Chhattisgarh) at 12 noon.

The Chairperson of the National Backward Classes Commission will attend the Social Progress Thinking Conference of the Backward Classes Organization at Shri Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium, Budhapara, Raipur on June 7 at 14:00. She will hold a review meeting on the welfare schemes of the backward classes at the State Guest House, Raipur at 3 pm, in which the Chief Secretary, Chhattisgarh Government
, Honorable Chairperson and Members, Chhattisgarh State Backward Classes Commission, Principal Secretary, Backward Classes Development Department, Chhattisgarh Government
will participate. The Chairperson of the National Backward Classes Commission will leave for New Delhi from Raipur on June 7 itself at 6:40 pm.

Raipur, June 6, 2026 / Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, the state government's schemes to empower women economically and make them self-reliant are bringing positive change at the grassroots level. Benefiting from these schemes, Preeti Gupta of Budhadand village in Bagicha development block of Jashpur district has today established herself as a successful entrepreneur. Through her hard work, dedication, and government support, she has realized her dream of becoming a "Lakhpati Didi."

Preeti Gupta, a member of the Laxmi Self-Help Group, received a loan of one lakh rupees under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY). She used this financial support to launch her own business. She established the "Durga Shringar and Grocery Shop" in the village, which offers a variety of items ranging from cosmetics to daily use items.

Initially started on a small scale, Preeti steadily expanded her business by understanding the needs of her customers. Today, her shop is one of the village's leading stores and has become a major hub for essential goods for the surrounding villagers.

Thanks to the financial support she received from the Mudra loan and her continued efforts, she now earns a net profit of approximately ₹2.50 lakh per year from her business. This income has not only strengthened her family's financial situation, but has also made her an inspiring example of self-reliance and female entrepreneurship.

Expressing gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and the government's schemes, Preeti Gupta said that the efforts being made for women's empowerment have provided her with the opportunity to become self-reliant. She said that with the support of the Bihan and Mudra schemes, she gained the confidence to stand on her own feet and today, by earning a respectable income, she is contributing significantly to the economic strength of her family.

Preeti's story is proof that by taking advantage of government schemes, rural women can also achieve economic independence through self-employment and become the harbingers of change in the society.

Intake-well, filter plant, WTP, Nalanda campus and pond beautification works were reviewed.

Instructions given to complete the ongoing works soon to increase the facilities of the city residents.

Raipur, June 6, 2026. Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Shri Arun Saw today inspected various development works being undertaken by the Municipal Corporation in Jagdalpur. He closely observed the construction work and inquired about its progress. He instructed officials to complete all tasks with quality and within the stipulated timeframe.

Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Saw inspected the intake well and filter plant at Power House Chowk in Jagdalpur and the Nayamunda filter plant, installed at a cost of approximately ₹101 crore in Maharani Ward. He took stock of the drinking water supply system and gave instructions to ensure better and uninterrupted water supply to citizens.

Mr. Saw inspected the construction of the 500-seater Nalanda campus, currently under construction at PG College Dharampura, costing approximately ₹11.18 crore. He directed that the construction work be expedited and completed soon, so that students can benefit from modern learning facilities as soon as possible.

The Deputy Chief Minister also inspected the beautification work of Pandritrai pond being done at a cost of about Rs 79 lakh in Chhatrapati Shivaji ward and the beautification work of Gangamuda pond being done at a cost of about Rs 3 crore 71 lakh. While appreciating the beautification and conservation work of the ponds, he laid special emphasis on maintaining quality. He expressed hope that the deepening of both the ponds will also improve the water level of the city. During the inspection of Mr. Saw, MP Mr. Mahesh Kashyap, Mayor Mr. Sanjay Pandey, councillors, Collector Mr. Akash Chhikara and Superintendent of Police Mr. Shalabh Sinha along with senior officers of the district administration and urban administration department were also present.

Governor and Chief Minister attended the fourth convocation of Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Smriti Health Sciences and AYUSH University.

Degrees awarded to 9,194 students

Raipur,/Governor Ramen Deka has said that digital addiction is becoming one of the biggest problems today. It is affecting not only individuals but also family and social life. The new generation needs to break free from digital addiction and 'popcorn mental state', as it affects thinking and understanding and only provides artificial satisfaction.

Governor Shri Ramen Deka said these things today in his presidential address at the fourth convocation of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Smriti Health Sciences and AYUSH University. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai was present as the chief guest at the ceremony. 7545 graduate and 1645 post graduate degrees and 5 super specialty degrees were awarded in medical, dental, ayurveda, homeopathic, medical biotech, BPP, MPT, nursing, BASLP and other faculties at the ceremony. Various gold medals were awarded to the students who obtained the highest marks in different faculties.

The Governor said that with determined efforts, digital addiction can be overcome to a significant extent within 30 days. Children should be kept away from mobile phones and encouraged to engage in sports and outdoor activities. Today's children are living in limited spaces, which is affecting their immunity.

The Governor told the newly graduated doctors that just as he, as Governor, cares for the welfare of the state's people, it is their responsibility to remain dedicated to the health and well-being of patients. A doctor's white coat should never be tarnished. He said that you have chosen this field to serve humanity. This degree, earned after hard work, marks the beginning of the second inning of your life. Wherever you work, prioritize the welfare of patients and perform work that sets an example for the nation, state, and society.

Mr. Deka said that neighborhood doctors are needed most today. Previously, there was a tradition of family physicians who understood the circumstances of the patient and their families intimately. That intimacy needs to be revived in the medical field. The golden hour is crucial for any patient. At such times, doctors' quick decision-making can save a patient's life. The Governor noted that today's students are the students of the internet age. Science is constantly advancing, and artificial intelligence (AI) is opening up new possibilities in the medical field. The use of technologies like telemedicine can play a vital role in providing healthcare services to remote areas.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Governor urged all students and citizens to plant trees under the "One Tree for Mother" campaign. He said that maintaining a balance between animals, humans, and nature is everyone's responsibility, and everyone should contribute to this.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that today is not just an occasion to receive a degree, but also an opportunity to pledge to fulfill new responsibilities towards society and humanity. The students' success reflects their personal achievement as well as the progress of Chhattisgarh and the prestige of its universities.

Mr. Sai stated that our goal should be to establish Chhattisgarh not only as a mineral- and agriculture-based state, but also as a major center of knowledge, research, and innovation. Mr. Sai also mentioned the expansion of health infrastructure in Chhattisgarh, as well as the development work being carried out in various sectors in Bastar after the Naxal eradication.

Raipur/Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai paid heartfelt tribute to the late Roop Narayan Sinha, Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission, at a condolence meeting held at the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in the capital, Raipur, today. He said that Shri Sinha's entire life was dedicated to social service, organization building, and the promotion of yoga. His passing is an irreparable loss not only to his family but to the entire state of Chhattisgarh.

Paying tribute, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the late Rupnarayan Sinha was a skilled organizer, simple, gentle, and soft-spoken. His demeanor, work ethic, and dedication had earned him a special recognition among various sections of society. His devotion to yoga and his commitment to society were what made him unique.

The Chief Minister said that after assuming the responsibility of Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission, Mr. Sinha worked with full dedication and energy to give a new direction to the yoga movement. He introduced many innovations to make yoga not just a means of health but also a part of lifestyle. His efforts gave yoga activities in the state a new identity and widespread public acceptance.

Chief Minister Shri Sai, recalling his time with the late Shri Sinha, said that he met regularly, and in each meeting, he shared new yoga-based ideas to bring positive change to society. His thinking was always constructive and public-friendly. He was constantly active in spreading yoga to the masses, making this his life's mission.

The Chief Minister said that Mr. Sinha played a key role in the success of the International Yoga Day event held at the Ranjita Stadium in Jashpur last year. The skill and commitment with which he delivered the grand event within a limited timeframe is a prime example of his organizational skills and efficiency. The large number of people who participated in that event raised public awareness about yoga to new heights. His life embodied dedication to society, discipline, and positive energy, which will continue to inspire generations to come.

Expressing his deep condolences to the bereaved family, the Chief Minister prayed to God to grant peace to the departed soul and give strength to the family to bear this grief.

In the condolence meeting, Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, Forest Minister Mr. Kedar Kashyap, Health Minister Mr. Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, School Education Minister Mr. Gajendra Yadav, MLA Mr. Amar Agarwal, MLA Mr. Dharamlal Kaushik, MLA Mr. Ajay Chandrakar, Mayor Mrs. Meenal Choubey, Mr. Ramesh Bais, Mr. Ram Pratap, Mr. Pawan Sai, Dr. Purnendu Saxena, Mr. Ram Dutt, Mr. Rajiv Lochan Maharaj along with a large number of public representatives, dignitaries, yoga practitioners and people associated with the yoga world attended and paid tribute to late Roop Narayan Sinha.

CM Plants Banyan Sapling at Rajiv Smriti Van, Calls for Mass Participation in Environmental Conservation

Raipur,Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today launched the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign 2026–27 during a state-level programme organised at Rajiv Smriti Van in Raipur on World Environment Day. The Chief Minister planted a Krishna Vat (Banyan) sapling and conveyed a message of environmental conservation. Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap also participated in the campaign by planting a Bel sapling.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that nature and human life are inseparably connected. He observed that uncontrolled deforestation and environmental imbalance are emerging as serious challenges for humanity. In such circumstances, the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is an inspiring and emotional initiative aimed at transforming environmental conservation into a people’s movement.

The Chief Minister said that last year the state had set a target of planting 2.5 crore saplings. However, with active public participation and coordinated departmental efforts, more than 3.5 crore saplings were planted across Chhattisgarh. He expressed confidence that citizens would once again exceed the plantation target this year and establish a new benchmark.

He stated that Chhattisgarh is among the states with significant forest cover, with nearly 44 percent of its geographical area under forests. He added that continuous efforts by the state government and the Forest Department are ensuring the protection and expansion of forest resources. The Chief Minister urged citizens to plant a sapling in the name of their mothers in their homes, farms, courtyards and fields, emphasising that environmental conservation is not merely a government responsibility but also a moral duty of every citizen.

Highlighting the traditional conservation practices of tribal communities, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that tribal societies have protected forests for centuries by considering them an integral part of their culture and way of life. He noted that the worship of trees at Sarna sites as sacred entities is a living example of cultural faith and commitment towards nature conservation.

During the programme, the Chief Minister honoured Padma Shri awardees Shri Pandi Ram Mandavi, Shri Jageshwar Yadav and Dr Ramchandra Godbole for their remarkable contributions to social service and public welfare. He said their lives serve as inspiring examples of dedication, service and commitment to society.

The Chief Minister also released several publications of the Chhattisgarh State Biodiversity Board, including The Baiga, Wetlands of Chhattisgarh, Floral Diversity of Bijapur Division, Mammals of Chhattisgarh, and ‘Uttari Chhattisgarh Ke Anuthe Paryatan Sthal Aur Unki Vividhata’.

Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap said that the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign is a unique initiative that expresses gratitude towards both nature and motherhood. He appealed to the people of the state to transform the campaign into a mass movement. He also congratulated citizens on Kopra Reservoir in Bilaspur district receiving Ramsar Site status, describing it as a proud achievement for Chhattisgarh.

During the programme, Sushri Chandanbati Kola from Silibahar village in Bhanupratappur development block shared information about innovations undertaken by self-help groups in forest conservation and organic farming. She informed that natural and organic farming is being practised over 138 acres in the village, which has completely halted youth migration and contributed significantly to environmental protection.