Raipur, March 15, 2025: In a heartwarming celebration of Holi, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai immersed himself in the festival’s colors and joy alongside children from Bagiya’s Manjhapara village. The sight of young villagers, their faces smeared with vibrant hues, eagerly approaching the Chief Minister’s residence, created an atmosphere reminiscent of a close-knit family gathering.

Welcoming the children with open arms, Chief Minister Sai embraced the festive spirit wholeheartedly. His simplicity and warmth allowed the children to interact with him freely, making the moment truly special. The Chief Minister not only inquired about their well-being but also shared sweets, played with colors, and indulged in lighthearted banter, making the celebration even more delightful.

The children, who had been reveling in Holi festivities across the village, expressed their excitement at meeting the Chief Minister. In turn, he reciprocated their joy with equal enthusiasm, making the occasion a beautiful confluence of tradition, happiness, and community spirit.

Reflecting on the significance of the festival, Chief Minister Sai remarked, "Holi is a celebration of unity, love, and harmony that strengthens social bonds. These traditions keep our cultural heritage alive and remind us of the importance of togetherness."

The event turned into a vibrant expression of joy, where laughter, colors, and affection blended seamlessly. The enthusiasm of the children, combined with the Chief Minister’s heartfelt participation, made this Holi celebration an unforgettable moment—one that truly embodied the festival’s spirit of warmth, joy, and togetherness.

Raipur, March 15, 2025/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, accompanied by his wife, Smt. Kaushalya Sai, visited Tatidand village in Kansabel block of Jashpur district, on the auspicious occasion of Holi. CM Shri Sai participated in the annual religious ritual organized by the Sanatan Samaj’s Durga Devi Sant Samaj and offered prayers to Lord Radha-Krishna, seeking peace, prosperity, and happiness for the people of the state.

The event was graced by the special presence of Shri Sahadev Panda, son of the late revered Guru Maharaj Shri Dhanpati Panda. This annual ritual, traditionally held during the Phalguna month on the occasion of Holi, has witnessed the participation of Chief Minister Sai for several years.

*Holi is a Festival of Brotherhood and Joy– CM Sai*

Extending heartfelt Holi greetings, CM Sai emphasized that the festival is not merely about colors but a celebration of love, harmony, and unity. He highlighted the significance of the annual ritual at Tatidand, stating that such events play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering social cohesion.

*State’s Development Accelerates with Welfare Initiatives*

During his address, the Chief Minister underscored the state government’s commitment to public welfare and economic development. He elaborated that under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, 1.8 million families are being provided with housing.

Chhattisgarh has set a record by purchasing paddy from farmers at the highest price in the country, significantly boosting the agricultural economy. The Mahatari Vandan Yojana is benefiting 7 million women, with each receiving ₹1,000 per month, promoting financial empowerment.

*Invitation to the Grand Mahashiv Puran Katha*

Chief Minister Sai also announced that from March 21 to March 27, a Mahashiv Puran Katha will be organized near the Madheshwar Pahad—home to one of the largest natural Shivaling in the country. The event will feature discourses by renowned spiritual speaker Pandit Shri Pradeep Mishra. CM Sai invited devotees from across the state to attend this grand spiritual gathering.

Smt. Kaushalya Sai also extended Holi wishes and shared her experiences at the event. She emphasized that such religious gatherings strengthen social unity and infuse people with spiritual energy.

The occasion witnessed an overwhelming participation of devotees from the Sanatan Samaj and local villagers, reinforcing the deep-rooted traditions and cultural ethos of the region.

Raipur : Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai celebrated Holi with great enthusiasm and warmth in his native village, Bagiya. The festival witnessed a massive gathering of villagers and well-wishers who came to extend their greetings and partake in the festivities.

From the early morning, the Chief Minister’s camp office in Bagiya became a hub of vibrant celebrations as people arrived in large numbers to meet him. Shri Sai welcomed everyone with open arms, applied gulal, and exchanged festive wishes, reflecting his deep-rooted connection with the people.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Sai emphasized that Holi is not merely a festival of colors but a symbol of love, harmony, and social unity. "This festival teaches us to rise above differences and embrace the spirit of brotherhood," he remarked. While celebrating, he also engaged in meaningful interactions with villagers, attentively listening to their concerns and discussing their needs.

The joyous occasion saw an outpouring of warmth  as villagers joined the Chief Minister in sharing festive delicacies and engaging in spirited Holi celebrations. Traditional folk performances by Nitesh Kachhap and his team added to the vibrancy of the event, filling the atmosphere with music and color.

Prominent dignitaries, including Collector Shri Rohit Vyas, SSP Shri Shashi Mohan Singh, Zila Panchayat CEO Shri Abhishek Kumar, along with elected representatives, senior officials, media personnel, and a large number of villagers, were present at the celebration. The event was a testament to Chief Minister Sai’s deep connect with the people, reinforcing the essence of Holi as a festival that transcends barriers and unites communities in a spirit of joy and togetherness.

New Delhi : Chhattisgarh has attracted investments worth Rs3,01,086 crore through various industrial proposals in the energy sector at the ‘Chhattisgarh Energy Investors Summit 2025’. These investment proposals have been made under different schemes of the state government, aiming to boost the state's energy infrastructure. This includes investments in nuclear, thermal, solar, and pumped storage power generation projects, which will not only benefit industries but also provide the common people with affordable and uninterrupted electricity.

“This investment in the energy sector in Chhattisgarh will elevate the state's power generation capacity to new levels and lay the foundation for a sustainable, green future by promoting renewable energy. The goal is for Chhattisgarh to not only become self-sufficient in energy but also establish itself as an energy hub for the entire country,” Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said. 

The proposed investment in the thermal power sector is worth a total of Rs107,840 Crore consisting both private investors and public sector undertakings (PSUs). Private investors are set to contribute Rs66,720 Crore, with Adani Power leading the way with investments in several projects, including Rs18,000 Crore for the Korba 1600MW plant, Rs15,000 Crore for the Raigarh 1600MW plant, Rs15,000 Crore for the Raipur 1600MW plant, and Rs620 Crore for a Korba 1320MW plant. 

Jindal Power is set to invest Rs12,800 Crore in a 1600MW plant in Raigarh, while Sarda is contributing Rs5,300 Crore for a 660MW plant in Raigarh. 

On the other hand, PSUs are proposing a total investment of Rs41,120 Crore, with NTPC committing Rs15,530 Crore for the Lara 1600MW project in Raigarh and Rs9,790 Crore for the Sipat 800MW plant in Bilaspur. CSPGCL is also investing Rs15,800 Crore in the Korba 1320MW project. This collective investment demonstrates a strong push to expand and upgrade thermal power generation capacity in the region. 

NTPC has planned to set up a 4200 MW nuclear power project at an investment of Rs80,000 crore, marking the beginning of nuclear power generation in the state.

Chhattisgarh has also achieved significant success in the field of solar energy. Jindal Power and NTPC Green together will produce 2500 MW of solar power by investing Rs10,000 crore. This includes 500 MW solar plants in Doleshra and 2000 MW in Raigarh.

In addition, there is good news for farmers. Under the PM Kusum Yojana, 675 MW of solar power will be generated at a cost of Rs4100 crore, and 20,000 solar pumps will be installed. This will provide affordable electricity to farmers for irrigation, reducing their reliance on diesel pumps.

Pumped storage projects with a total capacity of 8700 MW will also be developed at an investment of Rs57,046 crore. These projects include 1800 MW at SJN Kotpali and 3000 MW by Jindal Renewable.

An investment of Rs57,046 crore is being directed towards pumped storage projects, which will greatly enhance the state’s hydropower capacity. Major companies are participating in this initiative, with plans to develop several large-scale projects. These include an 1800 MW hydropower project in Kotpali, a 1400 MW hydropower scheme in Dangri, and a 3000 MW hydropower project by Jindal Renewable Company.

Chhattisgarh is investing heavily in its energy infrastructure, with Rs3,200 crore allocated for CREDA Solar Initiatives and Rs 6,000 crore for the PM Surya Scheme to expand solar energy. The state will also invest Rs 2,500 crore in government building solar projects, Rs 2,600 crore in Battery Energy Storage Systems, and Rs17,000 crore to upgrade power transmission. Rs10,800 crore will be invested under the RDSS to improve power distribution efficiency. These efforts will strengthen the state's energy capabilities and reliability.

With all these investments, Chhattisgarh is set to become one of the largest energy-producing states in the country. This will benefit industries, farmers, and the general public, while also boosting the state’s economy.

Raipur: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai paid homage to the great social reformer, educationist and Marathi poetess Smt. Savitribai Phule on her death anniversary (March 10).Chief Minister Shri Sai said that with her unparalleled courage and dedication, Smt. Phule initiated a revolution of education and social justice in Indian society. She not only got educated herself, but also gave a new direction to social consciousness by opening the doors of education for the underprivileged classes and women.Her entire life inspires us to move from darkness to light.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that through her works, Smt. Savitribai Phule not only made women and Dalit society aware, but she also challenged those stereotypes which hindered the society in the path of progress.

Raipur: Swarnaprashan Kit and Bal Raksha Kit will be distributed on Pushya Nakshatra on March 10 at the Government Ayurvedic College Hospital in the capital Raipur. Along with this, Swarnaprashan will also be done for children from zero to 16 years.On Pushya Nakshatra, on March 10, the first 800 children who reach the Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya Hospital for Swarnaprashan will be distributed Swarnaprashan Kit and Bal Raksha Kit received from All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi. These will be distributed from 10 am to 11:30 am.For this, the mobile number of the parents will have to be registered along with the Aadhar card of the child. Like every Pushya Nakshatra, on March 10, free Swarnaprashan will be provided to children between 0 to 16 years of age from 9 am to 2 pm in the Ayurveda College Hospital.

Raipur: On the occasion of International Women's Day, a grand and dignified 'Mahtari Vandan Abhinandan' program was organized at the Chief Minister's residence, Raipur.On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai honored women journalists who made significant contribution in the field of journalism and reiterated the government's commitment towards women empowerment.Chief Minister Shri Sai said in his address that women are the strong base of the society, and the Chhattisgarh Government is making continuous efforts to make women self-reliant and empowered.He said that women are scaling new heights in every field, and the government is ensuring that they get equal rights and security at every opportunity.He said that the Chhattisgarh government is dedicated to realising the concept of 'Mahatari Vandan'.

Raipur: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai paid his humble tribute to former MP of Bastar and eminent public leader late Shri Baliram Kashyap on his death anniversary (10 March). He said that Shri Kashyap was not only a public representative but also a public leader living in the hearts of the people of Bastar,Who dedicated his entire life to the service of society and the region.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the political life of late Shri Kashyap was a symbol of strong devotion, honesty and immense public support.He entered politics inspired by the spirit of public service and made public welfare the aim of his public life. It was his intimate relationship with the people of Bastar that he represented the people for a long time from Madhya Pradesh Assembly to Lok Sabha and raised their voice on every platform.

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.