Raipur.  Beginning in the new academic year 2026-27, special emphasis will be placed on connecting students with academic education, along with moral values, national spirit, and Indian cultural traditions, in both government and private schools in Chhattisgarh. To this end, the School Education Department has issued new directives for all schools in the state. Under these directives, all schools will ensure regular and mandatory morning singing of the national anthem, national song, and state song, along with various cultural and educational activities.

Under this order issued b the Ministry, Mahanadi Bhawan (Nava Raipur), all District Education Officers (DEOs) have been assigned the responsibility of implementing this system in their respective areas with immediate effect. According to the department's guidelines, schools will now have activities in a predetermined sequence at three different times daily. In the morning assembly, immediately after school begins, certain specific activities will be required in a predetermined sequence: the national anthem, the national song, the Deep Mantra, Saraswati Vandana, the Guru Mantra, and readings about the lives of great personalities. Similarly, during lunch, students will collectively recite the Bhojan Mantra (meal prayer). Finally, at school closing time (in the evening session), the State Song, the Gayatri Mantra, and the Shanti Mantra will be recited collectively.

government order

The School Education Department believes that regular and effective conduct of these activities will not only strengthen students' sense of patriotism and discipline, but will also foster their moral values ​​and cultural consciousness. This initiative will prove to be a milestone in introducing students to Indian traditions and national values.

Action will be taken for violation

The administration has clarified that all district education officers must conduct daily surprise inspections of schools and ensure that these rules are strictly followed. If any violations are found, administrative action may be taken against the school management or principal.

Raipur/Jashpur. CG NEWS: Historic and long-awaited good news has arrived for the Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh. For the first time since independence, the path has been cleared to connect Jashpur to the rail network. The Ministry of Railways, Government of India, has notified the Dharamjaigarh–Pathalgaon–Lohardaga new rail line project as a special rail project. With this decision, the decades-long demand of the region's residents has reached a decisive milestone.

00 Water conservation gives new direction to agricultural development, hope of double crop and increased income
Balrampur. Efforts being made towards water conservation and agricultural empowerment in Chhattisgarh are bringing positive changes in rural areas. The check dam constructed under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA) in village Sulsuli of Balrampur district is proving to be a boon for the farmers. With this initiative, now the farming of the farmers will not be dependent only on rain, rather they will get the opportunity of double crop production by getting irrigation facility throughout the year.

Under the guidance of the district administration, a check dam was constructed on the Ledo Nala in the Sulsuli Gram Panchayat under the Wadrafnagar District Panchayat at a cost of approximately 17 lakh rupees in the financial year 2025-26. This structure will play a vital role in strengthening water conservation in the area and increasing agricultural production.

Previously, due to a lack of irrigation resources, village farmers had to practice primarily rain-fed agriculture. Due to insufficient water availability after the Kharif season, much of the agricultural land remained fallow during the Rabi season. With the construction of the check dam, approximately 10 farmers will now have access to additional irrigation facilities covering 15 hectares of agricultural land, enabling cultivation in both the Kharif and Rabi seasons.
According to experts, the check dam will not only increase water storage but also improve groundwater levels. This will increase the availability of water in nearby wells and other water sources, benefiting farmers and villagers for a long time. The expansion of irrigation facilities will enable farmers to cultivate vegetables, pulses, and other cash crops alongside traditional crops, creating new opportunities for crop diversification and income growth.

This check dam will also prove useful in the daily lives of the villagers. The conserved water can be used for domestic needs, drinking water for animals, and other disposal purposes, significantly reducing the water crisis in the village.

Raipur: Lack of capital was once a major challenge for millions of street vendors, who sold vegetables from roadside carts, ran small tea and snack shops, or earned their living on the sidewalks. Lack of access to bank loans limited their businesses. However, the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme has transformed the lives of these small entrepreneurs.

Through this scheme, more than 112,036 street vendors in Chhattisgarh have been provided loan assistance totaling over 256.94 crore rupees (approximately $2.56 billion). The scheme has not only strengthened their businesses but also provided them with new opportunities for self-reliance and a respectable livelihood.

In response to the severe impact on livelihoods during the COVID-19 pandemic, the central government launched the Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVN) scheme on June 1, 2020. Its objective is to provide unsecured working capital loans to street vendors in urban areas to help them restart and expand their businesses. The scheme's key feature is that it does not require any collateral. Beneficiaries who repay their loans on time have the opportunity to receive higher loan amounts in the next phase.

Under the scheme, loans are provided to beneficiaries in phases. The first phase provides loans up to ₹10,000, the second phase provides loans up to ₹20,000, and the third phase provides loans up to ₹50,000. This means that working capital loans ranging from a minimum of ₹10,000 to a maximum of ₹50,000 can be obtained under this scheme. Only beneficiaries who make timely repayments are eligible for the next phase.

The PM Svanidhi scheme benefits small businesses that provide goods and services on the roadside or in public places. These include vegetable and fruit vendors, tea, snack, and fast food vendors, paan shop owners, textile and ready-made garment vendors, shoe and slipper vendors, book and stationery vendors, flower and puja material vendors, mobile accessories vendors, barbers, cobblers, and self-employed individuals providing laundry services, among many other small businesses.

The impact of the scheme is steadily increasing in Chhattisgarh. Thousands of street vendors have been provided loan assistance in districts such as Durg, Raipur, Bilaspur, Korba, Raigarh, and Dhamtari. Against a state-level sanctioned amount of ₹267.22 crore, over ₹256.94 crore has been disbursed, benefiting over 1.12 lakh beneficiaries.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai stated that the PM SVANidhi Yojana is not merely a loan distribution program, but a comprehensive campaign to connect small entrepreneurs with the formal banking system. This is strengthening the financial position of street vendors, increasing their income, and enabling them to build a better future for their families. Today, thousands of street vendors in Chhattisgarh's cities and towns are taking their businesses to new heights with the help of this scheme. The Pradhan Mantri SVANidhi Yojana has truly become a means of providing financial support to the hardworking people who, through their hard work, drive the urban economy.

The School Education Department has issued strict instructions: complete repair work by June 15th, and schools will be made print-rich and attractive.

Raipur, Chhattisgarh: With the start of the new academic session, the state government is ensuring a clean, beautiful, and quality environment for students. In accordance with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), the prestigious Shala Pravesh Utsav 2026 will be held across the state starting June 16, 2026. In this regard, Dr. Kamalpreet Singh, Secretary of the School Education Department, has issued detailed guidelines from the Ministry's Mahanadi Bhawan (Nava Raipur).

Munadi will be done in villages and cities, emphasis on public participation

To make the Entrance Festival a festive event, extensive publicity will be given. Public announcements will be made in villages and urban wards. Awareness will be raised through banners, posters, and rallies. Active participation of local public representatives, school development committees, and parents will be ensured.

The department has directed that buildings, campuses, and classrooms be thoroughly cleaned and any necessary repairs be made before schools reopen. Repairs to buildings that require repair must be completed by June 15, 2026, to ensure children have an attractive and print-rich environment (equipped with educational images and wall information).

Return of school dropout children and direct admission to the next class

The Education Department has developed a well-organized framework to facilitate the admission process. For Class 1, children will be admitted directly to schools after receiving a list of students from Anganwadi centers. For Class 6, students who have passed Class 5 will be enrolled in Class 6 by obtaining a list of students and their TC (transfer certificate) from primary schools. Special emphasis will be placed on finding and reintegrating school dropouts into the mainstream. Furthermore, instructions have been given to ensure 100% attendance of students and teachers in schools and to expedite the resolution of pending teacher cases. All subject teachers will also be required to prepare an academic roadmap for the next three months.

Free books, uniforms and bicycles will be provided.

Newly admitted children arriving at school during the celebration will be warmly welcomed with a tilak (a mark of the forehead). Free textbooks, school uniforms, and bicycles will be distributed to eligible students on this occasion. Promising students who top board and local examinations and outstanding parents will also be honored. The local community, health workers, self-help groups, and retired employees will be involved in this campaign. Interested citizens can also donate materials such as slates, pencils, notebooks, compass boxes, and school bags to the children.

Organized using local resources

The School Education Department has clarified that no separate budget will be allocated for the School Admission Festival. It will be organized using resources already available in the districts. For the smooth conduct of the program, the Joint Director, District Education Officer, District Mission Coordinator, DIET Principal, Block Education Officer, and other officials have been instructed to regularly inspect schools and provide necessary academic guidance.

Secretary Dr. Kamalpreet Singh has expressed hope that all the officers and employees will make this campaign successful by taking personal interest in the interest of the students, so that the state can achieve better educational results in the new academic session 2026-27.

Chhattisgarh Leads the Nation in Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Garmin), Building the Highest Number of Houses Daily

Government Provides Rs. 26,908 Crore for Housing Construction

Permanent Houses for the Low Income People is the Foundation of Dignity, Security and a Better Future: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur,Guided by the motto “Humne Banayan Hai, Hum Hi Sawareinge,” the Chhattisgarh Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, is rapidly fulfilling the commitment made during its first Cabinet meeting. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), more than 10.60 lakh rural houses have been completed across the state during the last two and a half years.

During the financial year 2025–26, Chhattisgarh completed more than 6 lakh houses, the highest number in the country. The state also ranks first nationally in the number of households completed daily. At present, more than 1,600 houses are being completed every day, reflecting the speed and scale of the housing mission.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai pledged to provide housing for low-income families during the very first Cabinet meeting held a day after assuming office. The state government has been working with determination and urgency to fulfil this commitment.

The government had resolved to construct 18,12,742 houses, including 2,46,215 incomplete houses, 6,33,438 houses from the 2011 permanent waiting list, 8,19,999 houses under the Awas Plus list, and 47,090 houses under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana – Gramin Awas Nyay Yojana.

Along with these houses, the government is also constructing 33,601 houses under the PM JANMAN Yojana in tribal and forest regions and 15,000 additional houses under a special project for Naxal-affected areas. The Panchayat and Rural Development Department has also conducted surveys under Awas Plus 2.0–2024 to identify low-income families living in kutcha houses, and the process of providing housing benefits to these eligible households is progressing rapidly.
To accelerate implementation and turn the dream of permanent housing into reality for low-income families, the government has made Rs. 26,908 crore available for housing construction.

The Panchayat and Rural Development Department not only addressed incomplete houses inherited from the previous government but also approved and completed a large number of new houses for eligible beneficiaries in a mission mode. The pace of implementation is reflected in the fact that between April and October 2025, nearly 2,000 houses were completed every day across the state. Even now, approximately 1,600 houses are being completed daily, making Chhattisgarh the leading state in the country in daily PMAY-G house completions.

To strengthen this ambitious mission and ensure its effective implementation, the state government has actively involved women’s self-help groups. Women associated with these groups are contributing as “Dealer Didis” and “Rani Mistris,” playing a vital role in housing construction activities. Thousands of women have achieved economic empowerment and emerged as “Lakhpati Didis” through their participation in the programme.

The establishment of Atal Digital Suvidha Kendra in villages has further supported the initiative by making small financial transactions easily accessible at the local level. These centres have significantly contributed to the smooth execution of housing construction and service delivery in rural areas.

Government committed to the preservation and promotion of art, culture and cinema – Chief Minister Shri Sai

Announcement of Rs 20 lakh for development works in Gidni Path (Chhura) and Rs 10 lakh for Sen Samaj Bhawan in Dhamtari

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today attended the felicitation ceremony of documentary filmmakers, artists and talented personalities from various fields organized under the joint aegis of the Culture Department and Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation in the capital Raipur.

Addressing the event, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that films are not just a medium of entertainment, but a powerful medium that guides society's thinking, culture, and sensibilities. A good film creates awareness in society and paves the way for positive change. Indian cinema has played a vital role in social change from time to time. He said that films like Mother India have strengthened moral values, sacrifice, and self-respect in Indian society.

The Chief Minister said that Chhattisgarhi cinema has a glorious history. The first Chhattisgarhi film, "Kahi Debe Sandesh," delivered a meaningful message against social evils. Today, Chhaliwood films are breaking new ground in entertainment and commercial success. He added that the expansion of digital and OTT platforms has expanded film access to every segment of society, making it crucial to promote responsible, positive, and value-based cinema.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that the state government is continuously striving to give a new identity to the Chhattisgarhi film industry and provide opportunities to local talent. To this end, the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation has been reactivated. He added that in January of this year, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Chitrotpala Film City and Tribal and Cultural Convention Center, to be built at a cost of ₹150 crore, was held. This project will boost film production activities in the state, provide employment opportunities to thousands of artists, technicians, and workers, and give a new impetus to film tourism.

Congratulating the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation and the Culture Department for organizing the event, the Chief Minister said that this is a commendable initiative to promote the state's art, culture, and cinema. Such awards ceremonies not only boost the morale of artists and creators but also inspire the new generation.

The program also featured a special screening of the Chhattisgarhi documentary film "Chhattisgarh ka Bheem - Chintaram," honored in 11 countries. On this occasion, Chief Minister Sai also extended birthday wishes to Ms. Mona Sen, Chairperson of the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation.
On this occasion, he announced Rs. 20 lakh for various development works in Gidni Path, located in the Chhura area of ​​Gariaband district, and Rs. 10 lakh for the construction of the Sen Samaj Bhawan in Dhamtari.

On this occasion, State President of Sarva Sen Samaj, Mr. Puneet Sen, senior film producer Mr. Mohan Sundarani, producers, directors, artists associated with Chhattisgarh film industry and a large number of dignitaries were present.

Chief Minister attended the state level conference of NHM Employees Union.

The role of NHM employees is crucial in providing health services in remote and inaccessible areas of the state.

The Chief Minister gave a big gift to the NHM employees, announcing payment of salary for the 33-day strike period.

Raipur, June 13, 2026. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today presented a significant gift to NHM employees by attending the state-level conference of the Chhattisgarh State National Health Mission (NHM) Employees Union held at the Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur. During the meeting, the Chief Minister announced that NHM employees would be paid their salaries for the 33-day strike period. Describing NHM employees as the "backbone" of health services, he said they play a vital role in providing health services even in remote and inaccessible areas of the state. Shri Sai stated that the contribution of NHM employees in building a healthy Chhattisgarh is incomparable and the government respects their work.
Recalling the role played by health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chief Minister said that when the entire world was in crisis, NHM officers and employees remained engaged in serving the people without caring for their lives. He said that during those difficult times, health workers set an example of humanity that can never be forgotten. He said that even today, in areas of the state lacking roads and transportation facilities, health workers are walking and crossing rivers and streams to provide health services to people. Referring specifically to the "Chief Minister's Healthy Bastar Campaign" being implemented in the Bastar region, the Chief Minister stated that health department teams are reaching out to every village to conduct health checkups, and that approximately 90 percent of the population has been screened so far.
Chief Minister Sai stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the courageous efforts of the security forces, Naxalism has been eradicated in Bastar. New possibilities for development and public welfare are now opening up there, with the expansion of health services being paramount. The Chief Minister detailed the extensive expansion of health services in the state over the last two and a half years. He stated that health services are being strengthened by the opening of new medical colleges and the recruitment of doctors and paramedical staff. The Chief Minister stated that the government stands firmly with health workers and, with everyone's cooperation, a developed and healthy Chhattisgarh will be built. The Chief Minister called upon the employees to continue working with the same dedication and spirit of service.
On this occasion, Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal stated that NHM employees play a crucial role in strengthening the state's health system, from Jashpur to Sukma. He stated that the "Swasth Bastar Abhiyan" is receiving a positive response. While detailing various announcements and facilities for employees, the Health Minister stated that many of their demands have been met, and a transfer policy has also been issued. He added that NHM employees will now be covered under the cashless treatment scheme. He also stated that life insurance has been implemented for NHM employees, providing assistance of ₹6 lakh in case of natural death, ₹1.4 crore in case of accidental death, and ₹1.4 crore in case of permanent disability. Shri Jaiswal stated that maternal and infant mortality rates have steadily declined in the state, and the recruitment process for nurses is underway. To reduce infant and maternal mortality, locations have been selected for 116 new specialized health centers.
After the Chief Minister announced the payment of wages for the strike period during the conference, officials and employees of the NHM Employees Union gave him a grand welcome and felicitated him by garlanding him. MLA Purandar Mishra, Chief Minister's advisor Dr. Dhirendra Tiwari, and NHM Employees Union President Dr. Amit Kumar Miri, along with a large number of health officials and employees, were present at the event.

New Delhi. Inflationary pressures appear to be rising again in the country. Retail inflation rose to 3.93 percent in May, up from 3.48 percent in April. For the first time in five months, retail inflation has risen.

Inflation has approached the Reserve Bank of India's target of 4 percent. The main reasons for this increase are believed to be rising food and transportation costs.

According to the data, retail inflation was 2.74 percent at the beginning of 2026, and steadily increased to 3.93 percent in May. Inflation increased by 0.45 percent in May compared to April, marking the fastest monthly increase in the past 16 months.

Meanwhile, gold and silver prices also saw a significant increase. On June 12, silver prices rose by ₹9,991 in a single day to reach ₹2.43 lakh per kilogram. Meanwhile, 24-carat gold rose by ₹3,018 to reach ₹1.48 lakh per 10 grams.

The government has also issued new orders regarding fuel sales. Consumers will now be limited to a maximum of 200 liters of diesel per day. Furthermore, factories and large commercial consumers will not be allowed to purchase diesel from retail petrol pumps.

They will have to use bulk sale points for their fuel needs. This arrangement has been implemented for an initial period of 90 days.

The government has taken this step in response to unusually high sales at petrol pumps in some areas. Officials say this will help maintain fuel availability for ordinary consumers.

Meanwhile, food safety measures have also intensified. Following complaints of insects found in some Maggi packets, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sought a response from the company and ordered the withdrawal of the affected batch from the market.

Dharamshala. The first match of the three-match ODI series between India and Afghanistan will be played on Saturday at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala. The match will begin at 1:30 PM. This is the first bilateral ODI series between the two teams. India and Afghanistan have previously faced each other in tournaments like the World Cup and Asia Cup.

The Indian team will be without several key players in this match. Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya are out of the team due to injury, while Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have been rested. As such, young players are likely to get a chance. Fast bowlers Prince Yadav and Gurnur Brar could each make their ODI debut.

The weather may also play a role in the match. There is a 55 percent chance of rain in Dharamsala on Saturday. Being a mountainous region, the weather here changes rapidly, which could potentially disrupt the match.

India and Afghanistan have played four ODIs so far. India has won three of these matches, while one match ended in a tie. Afghanistan has yet to register an ODI win against India. The two teams last met in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where India won by 8 wickets.

In Virat Kohli's absence, the Indian batting will be led by captain Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer, and KL Rahul. Shubman has scored 625 runs in ODIs since 2015, while Rohit Sharma has 711 runs in 17 matches.

Kuldeep Yadav will be India's main weapon in the bowling department. He has taken 22 wickets in ODI cricket since 2025. Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh will look to provide early breakthroughs with the new ball.

Afghanistan will rely on players like Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, and Azmatullah Umarzai. Their biggest strength is experienced leg-spinner Rashid Khan, who has taken five wickets in three ODIs against India.

The Dharamsala pitch offers early assistance to fast bowlers, while batsmen find it easier to score runs later in the innings. In the nine ODIs played at the ground, the chasing team has won five times. Both teams will be looking to start the series with a win.

Kawardha. The Baiga tribal community has leveled serious allegations against Abhinav Raijada, the excise officer posted in Chhattisgarh's Kawardha district. Representatives of the community say that poor villagers from the Baiga community, considered the President's adopted sons, are being implicated in false excise cases. It is alleged that cases involving mahua liquor are being filed by showing more liquor than the actual quantity, and money is being demanded from the villagers in the name of action.

Even after the complaint was lodged by the society, no formal investigation has been initiated by the senior officials of the Excise Department, due to which anger is increasing among the victim families and the people of the society.

The victim, Sagni Baiga, alleged that she had three or four bottles of mahua liquor in her house, but during the investigation, the amount was increased to 15 or 16 bottles. She said, "I was made to sign a blank paper. Since then, my husband has been missing and is untraceable."

Similarly, Sarottin Baiga alleged that 10 to 12 bottles of liquor kept in her house were shown as 40 to 45 during the investigation. She claimed that she was charged 25,000 rupees in exchange for protection from the case, but even after this, her husband was not released.

Representatives of the Baiga community allege that cases are being filed arbitrarily against many villagers in connection with mahua liquor. They say that in some cases, villagers were first made to sign blank papers, and then serious cases were fabricated based on those documents.

Kamu Baiga, district president of the Tribal Development Council, alleged that some officers of the Excise Department are constantly harassing the Baiga community. He said that villagers are being asked for sums ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 rupees in the name of avoiding action or reducing fines.

The community submitted a memorandum demanding the suspension of the concerned officials, an impartial, high-level investigation into the entire matter, and departmental and legal action if the allegations are found to be true. The Baiga community says that many poor families are facing financial and mental hardship due to the alleged action. They have appealed to the administration for swift justice.

Jagdalpur. A massive fire broke out at the old filter plant and water tank complex in Nayamunda on Friday evening, causing panic in the area. Administrative staff swung into action as soon as the fire was reported. BJP state president and Jagdalpur MLA Kiran Singh Deo also arrived at the scene and took stock of the fire situation.

According to preliminary information, the cause of the fire is believed to be a short circuit. It is suspected that a fault in the transformer or electrical wiring caused a spark, which ignited bleaching powder and other flammable materials stored in the premises. The fire quickly spread, and smoke spread throughout the complex.

Upon receiving information about the incident, several fire brigade vehicles arrived at the scene and began a firefighting operation. Municipal teams and administrative officials also arrived at the scene and began relief and rescue operations. For safety reasons, the power supply to the surrounding area was immediately cut off to prevent a major accident.

Efforts to bring the fire under control continued late into the night. Officials said the exact cause of the fire was being investigated. Preliminary investigations indicate a short circuit is likely the cause.

MLA Kiran Singh Deo, who arrived at the scene, said that as soon as the incident was reported, teams from the administration and related departments were activated. He added that the fire brigade is continuously engaged in extinguishing the fire and all departments are working in coordination with each other.

He said that while there is no major threat at this time, all safety measures are being taken as a precaution. The damage caused by the fire will be assessed only after it is completely contained. The administration has appealed to the public to avoid rumors and cooperate with security arrangements.

Jagdalpur. A massive fire broke out at the old filter plant and water tank complex in Nayamunda on Friday evening, causing panic in the area. Administrative staff swung into action as soon as the fire was reported. BJP state president and Jagdalpur MLA Kiran Singh Deo also arrived at the scene and took stock of the fire situation.

According to preliminary information, the cause of the fire is believed to be a short circuit. It is suspected that a fault in the transformer or electrical wiring caused a spark, which ignited bleaching powder and other flammable materials stored in the premises. The fire quickly spread, and smoke spread throughout the complex.

Upon receiving information about the incident, several fire brigade vehicles arrived at the scene and began a firefighting operation. Municipal teams and administrative officials also arrived at the scene and began relief and rescue operations. For safety reasons, the power supply to the surrounding area was immediately cut off to prevent a major accident.

Efforts to bring the fire under control continued late into the night. Officials said the exact cause of the fire was being investigated. Preliminary investigations indicate a short circuit is likely the cause.

MLA Kiran Singh Deo, who arrived at the scene, said that as soon as the incident was reported, teams from the administration and related departments were activated. He added that the fire brigade is continuously engaged in extinguishing the fire and all departments are working in coordination with each other.

He said that while there is no major threat at this time, all safety measures are being taken as a precaution. The damage caused by the fire will be assessed only after it is completely contained. The administration has appealed to the public to avoid rumors and cooperate with security arrangements.

Raipur. Based on a complaint received on the Chief Minister's Helpline 1076, the administration has taken major action against the illegal sand trade in Raipur district. A joint team of the Mineral and Revenue Departments conducted an investigation in several areas of the Arang development block and uncovered large-scale illegal sand storage.

During the operation, inspections were conducted in the Samoda, Kurud, Mohmela, and Kutela areas. A large amount of sand was found stored without permission on government land in the proposed pond area along the Kutela-Chikhli main road. According to the investigation team, approximately 90 tractors and 80 trucks carrying illegally stored sand were found at the site, and they were seized.

The administration completed the seizure in the presence of village council representatives and villagers. Furthermore, the ramp leading to the illegal sand storage site was cut and closed using a JCB machine to prevent such activities from occurring in the future.

During the operation, three vehicles used for illegal sand transportation and storage were also seized. The seized vehicles have been handed over to the Arang police station. A notice has been issued to the concerned storage owner, directing him to submit a response.

According to the administration, this action was taken based on complaints received during Good Governance Festival 2026 and cases registered with the Chief Minister's Helpline. Action is being taken against illegal sand mining, transportation, and storage under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

The action team included Assistant Mineral Officer Umesh Bhargava, Deputy Tehsildar Gajanand Sidar, and officials and employees from the Mineral and Revenue departments. The administration has clarified that the campaign against illegal mining and the mineral mafia in the district will continue. Officials said such actions will be taken continuously to prevent the illegal exploitation of natural resources.

00 Structures like contour trenches, soak pits, and ponds are increasing water harvesting capacity, giving new direction to groundwater enrichment
00 With MNREGA and public participation, the village has become a model for water conservation

Raipur. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, remarkable work is being done in the field of water conservation and groundwater enrichment in Jashpur district. In this regard, the Neemgaon Gram Panchayat of Jashpur development block has emerged as an inspiring model due to its innovative water conservation initiative. Through MNREGA and public participation, various structures have been constructed here for rainwater harvesting and conservation of natural resources, which are increasing water availability and strengthening rural livelihoods.

Under the leadership of Nagendra Bhagat, Sarpanch of Neemgaon Gram Panchayat, water conservation has become a mass movement in the village. The Gram Panchayat has constructed a total of 2,587 contour trenches so far. These structures, built in hilly and sloping areas, aim to control the flow of rainwater and infuse it into the ground. This has not only prevented soil erosion but is also improving groundwater levels.

Sarpanch Nagendra Bhagat explained that rainwater collects in the contour trench and slowly seeps into the ground, promoting water conservation. Furthermore, under the 5% model, special structures have been developed along the edges of fields in the village, where rainwater is collected and helps maintain moisture in the fields. This is benefiting farmers in improved crop growth and production. To promote sanitation and water management in the village, approximately 30 soak pits have also been constructed around hand pumps. These structures ensure safe disposal of used water and recharge of groundwater. This has not only reduced the problem of waterlogging but also promoted environmental protection.

The ponds constructed in Neemgaon have also emerged as an effective means of water conservation. Rainwater is collected in them, providing farmers with an additional source of water for irrigation. Remarkably, even during the scorching summer, many ponds are filled to the brim with water, demonstrating the utility and effectiveness of these structures. These water conservation efforts are not only improving groundwater levels but also strengthening agricultural production, environmental protection, and rural livelihoods. This initiative in Neemgaon is emerging as a successful model for a sustainable solution to the water crisis, one that can be replicated in other gram panchayats.

00 Irrigation facility will be strengthened in 464 hectares area, farmers will get direct benefit
Raipur. With the continuous efforts of the Minister of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare, Mrs. Lakshmi Rajwade, an approval of 4 crore 94 lakh 13 thousand rupees has been granted for the renovation work of the Brijeshwar Sagar Reservoir Scheme located in Bikash Khand Bhaiyathan of Surajpur District. Through this important project, the irrigation system of the area will be strengthened and better agricultural facilities will be available to the farmers.

Upon completion of this work approved by the Water Resources Department, 464 hectares of agricultural land will benefit from irrigation facilities. Due to this, enough water will be available for timely irrigation of the farmers, the agricultural production will increase and the agricultural economy of the region will be strengthened.
Minister Mrs. Lakshmi Rajwade said that the state government is paying special attention to the development of irrigation resources while giving highest priority to the interests of farmers. Renovation of Brijeshwar Sagar Reservoir will provide long-term benefits to the farmers of Bhaiyathan area and farming will become more profitable. Administrative approval has been issued to the Chief Engineer, Hasdev Ganga Cachar Water Resources Department, Ambikapur for the implementation of the scheme. This project will prove to be an important step in the direction of water conservation and agricultural development in the region.

New Delhi. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Press Information Bureau (PIB) have clarified the claim currently circulating on social media regarding plastic currency. A viral video claimed that paper currency would be phased out in India by June 30, 2026, and plastic notes would be issued, gradually eliminating old currency.

The video also claimed that Rs 100, 50, 20 and 10 notes would be exchanged, and the alleged voice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also used.

However, the government has clarified that these claims are completely misleading and false. According to PIB Fact Check, the RBI has clarified that there are currently no plans to phase out paper notes or replace them with plastic currency.