Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai tastes Gupchup at Manju’s stall in Lemru, learns her success story through a heartfelt interaction

Lakhpati Didi Yojana gives new wings; small business boosts confidence and livelihood

Raipur, May 16, 2026/
An inspiring story of warmth and self-reliance came to fore during Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai’s visit to Korba’s Lemru village.

Here he visited a small stall operated by Lakhpati Didi Smt. Manju and relished the spicy Gupchup prepared by her and interacted with her warmly. Beneficiary Manju is associated with the Rural Livelihood Mission has emerged as an example of women’s empowerment and self-reliance through her small business venture.

During the interaction, Smt. Manju informed the Chief Minister that she had started her business on a very small scale. With the savings earned from her Gupchup stall and through continuous hard work, she has now expanded into the business of “centering plates” used in construction works. Despite limited resources, she has set an inspiring example of self-reliance through her determination, hard work, and self-confidence.

Appreciating the efforts of Manju Bahen, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the State Government is committed to economically empowering rural women and making them self-reliant. He stated that the Lakhpati Didi Yojana is today emerging as a strong foundation for women’s confidence, dignity, and financial empowerment.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also handed over an incentive cheque of Rs 30,000 to Smt. Manju under the Lakhpati Didi Yojana. The Chief Minister said that when hard work gets opportunity and courage receives support, the impact of change does not remain limited to one individual’s life alone, but brings positive transformation across the entire village and society.

Worshiped at Mata Kaushalya Temple and prayed for the happiness and prosperity of the people of the state.

Raipur, May 16, 2026/Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai visited the village of Kosala in the Pamgarh development block of Janjgir-Champa district today and performed the ritualistic worship at the Mata Kaushalya Temple as part of the Good Governance Festival. He prayed to Mata Kaushalya and Lord Shri Ram for the happiness, prosperity, peace of the people of the state and the continued progress of Chhattisgarh.

Upon arrival at the temple complex, Chief Minister Shri Sai was warmly welcomed by local public representatives, the Temple Service Committee, and villagers. Finance Minister Shri O.P. Chaudhary was also present with him on this occasion.

Chief Minister Shri Sai held cordial conversations with devotees and villagers at the temple complex. He said that Chhattisgarh's culture, faith, and traditions are the state's greatest strengths. Along with development, our government is also continuously working to preserve and promote cultural and religious heritage.

An attractive photograph of Mata Kaushalya Temple was presented to Chief Minister Shri Sai as a souvenir by the Temple Seva Samiti.

The unexpected arrival of Chief Minister Shri Sai created an atmosphere of excitement and joy in the area. A large number of devotees, villagers, and local citizens were present on the occasion.

Sitting on a cot under a peepal tree, he directly interacted with the villagers: listened to their problems and gave instructions for their solution on the spot.

Announcement of construction of “Mahatari Sadan” and Higher Secondary School building in village Kosla

Raipur, May 16, 2026: Under the Good Governance Festival, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai today conducted a surprise inspection of Kosala village in the Pamgarh development block of Janjgir-Champa district. Upon Chief Minister Sai's arrival, the entire area was filled with enthusiasm. The Chief Minister's easygoing, cordial, and simple nature was evident when, without any formality, he sat on a cot among the villagers in a village chaupal organized under the shade of a peepal tree and began communicating directly with them. This scene became memorable for the villagers, and the chaupal became an example of cordial communication and sensitive governance.

Chief Minister Shri Sai held direct discussions with villagers, women, and farmers at the Chaupal and inquired about the implementation of various public welfare schemes. He listened seriously to the villagers' problems and directed the concerned officials to resolve them promptly.

The Chief Minister said that the objective of Good Governance Festival is to establish direct communication between the government and the public and to ensure that the benefits of schemes reach the last person. He said that the state government is continuously working to bring positive change in the lives of women, farmers, the poor, and needy families.

During his discussion with the villagers, the Chief Minister specifically asked, "Does the Patwari visit the village regularly?" Upon receiving a positive response, the Chief Minister directed the village Patwari, Mr. Shatrughan Kurre, to ensure prompt resolution of the problems of villagers and farmers, so that people don't have to wander around for even small tasks. The Chief Minister clearly stated that ordinary citizens should not face any inconvenience.

During the Chaupal, Mrs. Savitri Kashyap of Kosla village informed the Chief Minister that she receives regular monthly financial assistance under the Mahatari Vandan Yojana. She said that this scheme is significantly helping meet the family's needs, both large and small, and has increased economic self-reliance. During a cordial discussion with the women, the Chief Minister said that the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is becoming an economic support for millions of women in the state.

Meanwhile, the village's "Lakhpati Didi," Mrs. Neema Tiwari, told the Chief Minister that after joining the Bihan Yojana, she initially received financial assistance of 15,000 rupees. Subsequently, she started a flour mill business and today operates five flour mills. Praising her success, the Chief Minister urged her to inspire other women in the village to become self-reliant by joining self-help groups.

The Chief Minister also inquired about the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in the village. Officials reported that in the past two and a half years, 474 families in Kosala village have been approved for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The Chief Minister stated that all eligible beneficiaries left out through the Awas Plus survey will also be provided with the benefits of the scheme. He said that after the formation of the government, 18 lakh Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana were first approved, and now the dream of a permanent home is coming true for thousands of families.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, taking prompt action on the demands of the villagers during the Jan Chaupal, also made important announcements. Keeping in mind the convenience and empowerment of women, he announced the construction of a "Mahtari Sadan" in Kosla village. Also, given the need for better educational facilities in the area, he announced the construction of a higher secondary school building. These announcements by the Chief Minister generated an atmosphere of enthusiasm among the villagers, especially women and students.

Chief Minister reached Lemru, held a Chaupal and listened to the problems of the villagers.

Announcements of development works in remote areas, tablets given to meritorious students

Raipur, May 16, 2026/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai participated in the public problem resolution camp organized in the remote village of Lemru in Korba development block today under the Good Governance Festival.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the government was formed with the blessings of the people and that serving them is the government's ultimate duty. He said that Good Governance Festival symbolizes the government's direct access to the public and sensitive approach.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the Good Governance Festival, which began on May 1st, will continue until June 10th, through which the problems of the common people across the state are being resolved promptly. He said that just as the head of a family takes care of the family's happiness, sorrows, and needs, the government is also visiting villages in the same spirit, reviewing the implementation of schemes and listening to the problems of the people. He said that he himself is also suddenly reaching villages and setting up a Chaupal under a tree and communicating with the common people.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that numerous public welfare schemes are being implemented in the state for women, farmers, laborers, forest dwellers, and poor families. Under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, 70 lakh women are being provided financial assistance every month. Approval has been given for 1.8 million Prime Minister's Housing Schemes in the state, of which a large number have been completed. He said that the tendu leaf collection rate has been increased to Rs. 5,500 per standard sack, and paddy is being purchased from farmers at record prices.

Industry Minister Shri Lakhanlal Dewangan said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the government has fulfilled most of the promises of "Modi's Guarantee" in a short time. By extending the benefits of schemes to every village, relief is being provided to the poor, farmers, and the needy. He said that through Good Governance Festival, the Chief Minister himself is reaching out to remote areas of the state and communicating directly with the public.

Finance Minister Mr. O.P. Choudhary said that despite the scorching heat, Chief Minister Mr. Vishnu Dev Sai is continuously visiting remote areas of the state. Through Good Governance Festival, a new chapter of development is being written from Surguja to Bastar, with prompt resolution of problems. He said that the large number of people who came to listen to and meet the Chief Minister is a symbol of the public's trust and emotional connection.

During the camp, Chief Minister Sai announced several development projects for the Lemru region. He announced the construction of an irrigation anicut, the establishment of a post-matriculation hostel, electrification in various gram panchayats, school buildings, Anganwadi buildings, concrete roads, and culverts.

The Chief Minister honoured 18 meritorious students of Korba district who scored more than 90 percent marks in the Class 12 board examination by presenting them tablets and wished them a bright future.

At the camp, the Chief Minister distributed ration cards, agricultural equipment, tricycles, hearing aids, fish farming equipment, pumps, power sprayers, nutrition baskets, and incentive checks to self-help groups to beneficiaries of various departmental schemes. He also met with beneficiaries of the PM Housing Scheme and inquired about the implementation of the schemes.

Principal Secretary Mr. Subodh Singh, Special Secretary Mr. Rajat Bansal along with public representatives and officials were present on this occasion.

Dweepti Yojana’ to be operated under the leadership of women

Raipur, The Government of Chhattisgarh has approved the ambitious ‘Dweepti Yojana’ for the period 2026–2031 to promote renewable energy while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural women by empowering them as owners, operators, and technical managers of energy assets. Implemented under the guidance of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, the scheme aims to bring women into the economic mainstream through a women-led green energy revolution.

The initiative is being seen as a pathbreaking step toward strengthening rural economies and expanding clean energy infrastructure across the state. By combining women empowerment with sustainable development, the scheme is expected to create new avenues of self-reliance, technical skill development, and community leadership for women in rural areas.

‘Solar Didis’ to become the face of rural energy transformation

Under the scheme, a dedicated cadre of ‘Solar Didis’ (Urja Sakhis) will be developed at the village level. Selected women will receive specialised training in the installation, operation, and technical maintenance of solar energy systems. These trained Solar Didis will take responsibility for managing solar mills, cold storages, irrigation systems, and other solar assets at the village level. This initiative will provide a permanent solution to technical breakdown issues in remote and forest areas, ensuring that rural infrastructure remains continuously functional.

Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) to become ‘women energy cooperative societies’

Under the scheme, Cluster Level Federations will be strengthened and transformed into women-led energy cooperative societies. These societies will collectively manage energy assets. They are being linked as authorised vendors and channel partners under the Prime Minister Surya Ghar Yojana. CLFs from Mahasamund and Bastar districts have already been registered as vendors. Bulk procurement of equipment at the state level will reduce costs, while Solar Didis at the local level will handle sales and servicing operations.

Innovative payment model for affordable energy

For the convenience of rural consumers, the ‘Dweepti Yojana’ has adopted ‘Pay-per-Use’ and ‘Pay-as-you-go’ models. Under this system, consumers will only have to pay for the energy they actually use. To strengthen women-led energy enterprises financially, the Government has taken the historic decision to reserve 25 percent of maintenance contracts of Panchayats specifically for these societies.

‘Bihan’ network and technical coordination

The framework of the scheme has been prepared with the technical support of Transform Rural India. Its extensive implementation will be carried out through the state’s renowned ‘Bihan’ network. Around 2.7 lakh self-help groups across the state will actively participate in this initiative. This model will not only promote clean energy but will also open new avenues of livelihood and leadership for rural women. The ‘Dweepti Yojana’ will emerge as a visionary initiative that gives Chhattisgarh a new identity on the national stage as a women-led ‘Green Development Model’.

Sharing his view Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said, “Women’s contribution to Chhattisgarh’s rural economy has always been exemplary. Through the ‘Dweepti Yojana’, we are transforming rural women of the state from ‘consumers’ into ‘owners’ and ‘managers’ in the energy sector. This scheme represents Chhattisgarh’s major contribution towards fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of ‘Net Zero’ and a ‘Green India’.”

Third visit of Indian government officials in two months, Secretary appreciates

The policy will be considered for implementation at the national level.

Raipur, Chhattisgarh's Smart Registry model has now emerged as an example for the entire country to emulate. Shri Narendra Bhushan, Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Government of India, commended the technological innovations and citizen-centric reforms undertaken by the state's Registration and Stamps Department, saying that Chhattisgarh's model is inspiring for other states as well.

This is the third visit by Government of India officials in the last two months, reflecting the growing national interest in the smart registry system, auto mutation and digital services implemented in the state.

During his two-day visit to Chhattisgarh, Secretary Shri Narendra Bhushan conducted a detailed review of the Registration Department at the Ministry's Mahanadi Bhawan. Also present on the occasion were Joint Secretary of the Land Resources Department Shri Nitin Khade and Director Shri Shyam Kumar.

In the review meeting, Secretary Registration Bhuvnesh Yadav and Inspector General Registration and Superintendent Stamps Pushpendra Kumar Meena gave a presentation on the major reforms and innovations made by the department in the last two years.

The presentation outlined initiatives related to expanding citizen services, modernizing registration processes, strengthening digital services, transparency, and improving service delivery. It also outlined the framework and future functionality of the "Next Generation Registry Platform" being developed by the Department.

Secretary Shri Narendra Bhushan specially appreciated the efforts of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai and Registration Minister O.P. Choudhary in providing best services to the citizens of the state.

He then inspected the Smart Sub Registrar's Office located in CBD, Nava Raipur Atal Nagar, and observed the end-to-end digital registry process integrated with auto mutation. Officials provided him with detailed information about the entire registration process, digital systems, and civic amenities.

During the inspection, Secretary Mr. Bhushan stated that Chhattisgarh's initiative is highly effective in providing transparent, simple, and timely services. He added that a policy to implement the state's smart office model nationally will be considered.

He also particularly appreciated the modern facilities, transparent functioning, and citizen-friendly environment available to citizens in the office. The Secretary to the Government of India expressed confidence that Chhattisgarh will lead the country in expanding technology-based registry services.

The "Public Participation - Farthest, First" campaign will run from May 18 to 25.

Raipur: To ensure the reach of government schemes in tribal areas, the Chhattisgarh government's Tribal Development Department will launch the "Public Participation - First, Farthest" campaign from May 18 to 25, 2026. This campaign will be conducted in 1,544 villages under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) and 6,691 villages under the Dharti Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan.

According to an order issued from the Ministry, Mahanadi Bhavan, Nava Raipur, under the campaign, benefits of schemes like health, education, social security, nutrition, and drinking water will be extended to eligible beneficiaries in all districts of the state except Raipur. Officials will visit villages to conduct public hearings, and complaints will be resolved at "Adi Seva Kendras."

The campaign will include health camps for sickle cell and TB testing. Digital monitoring will include daily uploads of photos, videos, and beneficiary statements to the "Adi Prasaan" portal.

The government has directed public representatives, voluntary organizations, the National Security Advisory Board (NSS), the National Security Advisory Board (NCC), and self-help groups to actively participate. The campaign will also be coordinated with "Good Governance Festival" and the "Tribal Dignity Festival."

Raipur is filled with the fragrance of flowers
, the blooming of mangoes and the modern technology-equipped government garden, Nursery Pendri.

While the scorching heat of May finds people wandering in search of shade and cool air, the weather feels a little different as soon as one steps into the Government Garden Nursery at Pendri in Rajnandgaon city. Flowerbeds adorned with colorful flowers, fruit-laden trees, and a lush greenery-covered campus provide a sense of peace and freshness to everyone who visits.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai suddenly reached village Kosala under Pamgarh development block of Janjgir-Champa district.

As soon as the Chief Minister's helicopter landed in Kosla village, the administrative staff was abuzz, and the villagers were filled with excitement and joy.

Upon receiving information about the Chief Minister's sudden arrival, the villagers rushed to the spot and gave him a warm welcome.

Social Welfare Department became the best department in e-office; officers with best performance in individual category were also honored.

Raipur, May 14, 2026/Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Mr. Vikassheel presented certificates of appreciation to ministry officials and employees at a special ceremony held at the Secretariat (Mahanadi Bhawan) today. The recognition was given for their prompt processing of files through e-office and outstanding performance in office time commitment (attendance).

Chief Secretary Mr. Vikassheel congratulated all the awarded officers and employees, stating that e-office not only brings transparency to work but also speeds up the decision-making process. He described punctuality as the foundation of a better work culture and urged other employees to take inspiration from this.

Best Performing Departments Three departments of the Ministry won in the effective use of e-Office. The Social Welfare Department secured first place, the Home Department second, and the Transport Department third. The list of officers who performed best in various categories in the individual awards in the e-Office category is as follows: Joint/Additional Secretary Shri Bhupendra Kumar Rajput (Tribal Development) secured first place, Shri Anupam Trivedi (Minority Development) second, and Shri Sachidanand Alok (Panchayat and Rural Development) third. Deputy Secretary Shri Doordesi Ram Sontapar (Forest Department) secured first place, Shri Kishore Kumar Bhuarya (L.K.) second, and Shri Ramprasad Chauhan (Home Department) third. Under Secretary Shri Arun Kumar Mishra (Law Department) secured first place, Shri Maganlal Pawar (Commerce and Industry) second, and Shri Puran Lal Sahu (Home Department) secured third place in the individual e-Office category. And Section Officer Shri Nandkumar Meshram (L.K) stood first, Shri Bhole Nath Sarathi (Forest Department) stood second, Shri P. Nagarajan (Home Department) stood third individually in the e-office category.

Secretariat Assistant and Technical Category

The first position holders were Mrs. Rekha Dewangan (Assistant Section Officer), Mr. Daulat Ram Verma (Senior Secretariat Assistant), Mr. Pramod Kumar (Junior Secretariat Assistant), and Mrs. Maya Dewangan (Data Entry Operator), in the punctuality and attendance ranking for ensuring attendance in the office on time. The first position holders were Ms. Kanti Suryavanshi (Assistant Section Officer), second position holders were Mr. Ramakant (Stenotypist), Aradhana Sahu (Private Secretary), Huppal Dewangan, Jaiprakash Sao, Jayamani Pahariya, Jighan Ram Sahu, Leena Rakesh, Mukesh Kumar Shakar and Mukesh Kumar Tandi. The third position holders were Mukesh Ram Pradhan, Omprakash Patre, Pramila Yadav, Santosh Kumar Sahu, Sudha Shende, Tribhuvan Nishad and Vinod Kumar Athankar.

Raipur, 14 May 2026/ Chief Secretary Mr Vikassheel presented letters of appreciation to the officers and employees of the ministry at the Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan today for their excellent work in disposal of files through e-office and for being present on time. The departments doing the best work in the ministry through e-office were also honoured. The Social Welfare Department stood first among the best departments. The Home Department stood second and the Transport Department stood third.

The Chief Secretary honored officers and employees by presenting them with commendation letters for their excellent work in e-office. In the Joint Secretary category, Mr. Bhupendra Kumar Rajput, Joint Secretary of the Tribal Development Department, secured first place, while Mr. Anupam Trivedi, Joint Secretary of the Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and Minority Development Department, secured second place. Mr. Sachidanand Alok, Additional Secretary of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, secured third place.

Among the Deputy Secretary-level officers, Mr. Doordesi Ram Sontapar, Deputy Secretary of the Forest Department, was awarded first place, Mr. Kishore Kumar Bhuarya, Deputy Secretary of the General Administration Department, second place, and Mr. Ramprasad Chauhan, Deputy Secretary of the Home Department, were awarded commendation letters for third place. Among the Under Secretary-level officers, Mr. Arun Kumar Mishra, Under Secretary of the Law and Legislative Affairs Department, was awarded first place, Mr. Maganlal Pawar, Commerce and Industry Department, second place, and Mr. Puran Lal Sahu, Home Department, third place. Among the Section-level officers, Mr. Nandkumar Meshram, Section Officer of the General Administration Department, was awarded first place, Mr. Bhole Nath Sarathi, Forest Department, second place, and Mr. P. Nagarajan, Home Department, third place. Among the Assistant Section-level officers, Mrs. Rekha Dewangan was awarded first place. Among the Senior Secretariat Assistants, Mr. Daulat Ram Verma, Women and Child Development Department, was awarded first place. Among the Junior Secretariat Assistants, Mr. Pramod Kumar, Urban Administration Department, was awarded first place. In the Junior Secretariat Assistant category, Mr. Vikram Pratap Kashyap of the General Administration Department secured second place, and Mr. Surendra Kumar of the General Administration Department secured third place. Mrs. Maya Dewangan of the Forest and Climate Change Department (Technical) secured first place in the Data Entry Operator category.

Assistant Section Officer Ms. Kanti Suryavanshi secured first place in the attendance ranking for punctuality. Stenographer Mr. Ramakant, Personal Secretary Aradhana Sahu, Assistant Section Officer Mr. Huppal Dewangan, Assistant Section Officer Mr. Jaiprakash Sahu, Senior Secretariat Assistant Mrs. Jayamani Pahariya, Peon Mr. Jighan Ram Sahu, Under Secretary Mr. Leena Rakesh, Section Officer Mr. Mukesh Kumar Shakar, and Mr. Mukesh Kumar Tandi secured second place. Similarly, those securing third place in attendance were Junior Secretariat Assistant Mr. Mukesh Ram Pradhan, Under Secretary Mr. Omprakash Patre, Senior Secretariat Assistant Pramila Yadav, Assistant Section Officer Mr. Santosh Kumar Sahu, Mrs. Sudha Shende, Mr. Tribhuvan Nishad, and Assistant Section Officer Mr. Vinod Kumar Athankar. All the officers and employees were congratulated on receiving the appreciation letters.

Instructions given to the officials and construction agency to complete the work as soon as possible

The resumption of traffic on the over-bridge will bring relief to thousands of people in the city and surrounding villages.

Raipur, May 14, 2026. Deputy Chief Minister and Public Works Minister Shri Arun Saw today inspected the final stage of work on the railway over-bridge under construction at the Khamhardih-Kachana railway crossing in Raipur. He instructed the Public Works Department officials and the construction agency present on the spot to complete the over-bridge work as soon as possible. He walked on the over-bridge and inquired about its technical standards from the officials. He asked for the use of good quality poles and lights for lighting here. Public Works Department Secretary Shri Mukesh Kumar Bansal, Chief Engineer Shri V.K. Bhatphari and Chief Engineer of the Bridge Division Shri S.K. Kori were also present during this time.

After inspecting the Kachana Overbridge, Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Saw stated that 96 percent of the work has been completed. The remaining work will be completed as soon as possible and the bridge will be opened to traffic. The opening of this overbridge will relieve thousands of people in Raipur city and surrounding villages from the problems of traffic jams and railway crossing closures. Mr. Saw stated that the state government is continuously working to strengthen, streamline, and speed up traffic in the capital. The Kachana Overbridge is a key component of this effort, now nearing completion. This much-awaited overbridge will soon be opened to commuters on this road.

The over-bridge being constructed at a cost of Rs 49 crore will streamline and speed up traffic on this route.

Public Works Department officials stated that 96 percent of the work on this railway overbridge, being constructed between Khamhardih and Kachana on the Raipur-Waltair railway line at a cost of approximately ₹49 crore, has been completed. The central railway section of the bridge, along with the bridge and approach roads at both ends, have been completed. Painting and finishing work is currently underway. Once these are complete, drain construction and lighting will begin promptly. With the completion of this overbridge, traffic on this route will become more streamlined and faster.

Development of cities is synonymous with development of the state, benefits of schemes should reach the last person – Mrs. Sangeeta R.

Raipur. May 14, 2026. Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department, Mrs. Sangeeta R., today held a video conference with departmental officials, municipal corporation commissioners, chief municipal officers, nodal officers and officials of all 194 urban bodies of the state and directed them to give top priority to good governance, accountability, public service and effective implementation of schemes. For the first time, the entire staff of all municipal corporations, municipalities and town councils of the state attended this meeting together.

Secretary of the Urban Administration Department, Mrs. Sangeeta R., stated at the meeting that urban bodies are the face of the state government, and urban development is synonymous with the state's development. Providing citizens with pure drinking water, a clean environment, improved basic amenities, and a garbage-free city is the primary responsibility of urban bodies. She stated clearly that the government has adequate resources available for implementing plans, and therefore, negligence, irregularities, or unnecessary excuses will not be tolerated.

The Secretary directed all officials to develop clear action plans to address the problems of their respective municipal bodies. Identify local problems and ensure timely resolution, and effectively implement plans on the ground. He emphasized that no officer's hard work should go to waste, and that results should be visible in every municipal body.

Special emphasis on respect for public representatives and better coordination

Secretary Mrs. Sangeeta R. laid down a "rule of thumb" for officials, stating that respect for the Mayor, Chairman, and public representatives should be a top priority. Under no circumstances will misbehavior or abusive language toward public representatives be tolerated. She emphasized that administrative officials have every right to act independently within the rules, but maintaining good behavior with public representatives and citizens is essential.

He said that officers and bodies performing good work will be honored, while strict action will be taken against those found negligent or engaging in wrongdoing. The Secretary gave a clear message to officers, saying that if an officer is acting correctly and in accordance with the rules, the department will stand by them under all circumstances.

Nodal officers given the role of a guide

At the meeting, the Secretary instructed the newly appointed nodal officers to play a guiding role. He stated that the nodal officers would regularly inspect urban bodies, review plans, and coordinate and provide support and guidance to the bodies. Instructions were also given to assign ward-wise responsibilities to officers at the municipal level, ensuring monitoring and accountability of work.

He said that division-wise video conferencing will be organised every week and the progress of development works will be assessed by holding departmental review meetings every month.

Special focus on cleanliness and solid waste management

Secretary Mrs. Sangeeta R. stated that solid waste management is not just the government's responsibility, but the personal responsibility of every official and citizen. She directed the separation of wet and dry waste, scientific waste management, and improved sanitation. She stated that any negligence in sanitation work would not be tolerated. She directed officials to carefully study the new waste management rules and ensure their effective implementation.

Mobile network reaches 3,056 villages in Bastar, bus services introduced for the first time in 425 villages

Remote Bastar villages witness rapid transformation through connectivity, roads and welfare access

Raipur, 14 May 2026 /

Marking a significant transformation in the remote forest regions of Bastar, mobile connectivity, road access and essential government services are steadily reaching villages once cut off from mainstream facilities under the Niyad Nellanar Yojana.

In this regard, Chief Secretary Shri Vikas Sheel on Thursday reviewed the progress of the Niyad Nellanar Yojana at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan. During which he held discussions with officials regarding the upcoming action plan under the scheme.

Under the Niyad Nellanar Yojana, electricity lines have reached remote forest villages in the Bastar region. Free electricity connections and solar lights have been provided in villages. Local employment opportunities have been generated through MGNREGA, while permanent houses have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Residents of interior areas are now directly benefiting from several individual-centric government schemes such as ration cards, Ujjwala gas connections, and bank passbooks.

During the meeting, officials informed that over the past two years, a total 5,016 primary schools and 8,947 Anganwadi centres have been opened. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have also been established in villages covered under the Niyad Nellanar Yojana to provide healthcare services to local residents. Mobile network connectivity has reached 3,056 villages. Similarly, all-weather roads have been constructed in 85 percent of the habitations.

Under the Mukhyamantri Bus Sewa Yojana , as many as 52 buses are currently operating on 50 routes across the Bastar division. Bus services have been introduced for the first time in 425 villages of the region.

Officials also held detailed discussions on the action plan for Niyad Nellanar Yojana 2.0 during the meeting.

Panchayat and Rural Development Additional Chief Secretary Smt. Richa Sharma, Panchayat and Rural Development Department Secretary Shri Bheem Singh, MGNREGA Commissioner Shri Taran Prakash Sinha, along with officials of the Rural Development Department and other departments, were present in the meeting.

Raipur/Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Apex Bank Chairman Shri Mahavir Singh Rathore. The Chief Minister said that Shri Rathore always served in public life with dedication, simplicity, and a spirit of social welfare.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Shri Rathore's life was completely dedicated to public service, organizational work, and social concerns. His simple, gentle, and hardworking personality was an inspiration to all. He said that Shri Rathore's passing has caused an irreparable loss to the political and social spheres. His contributions and services will always be remembered.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has prayed to Lord Shri Ram for peace of the departed soul and to give strength to the bereaved family and supporters to bear this grief.

Union Secretary assesses ground realities; directs increase in survey teams

Raipur, Shri Narendra Bhushan, Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development (Department of Land Resources), Government of India, visited Dhamtari district today and closely inspected the progress of the ambitious 'Naksha Project'. The Secretary, who visited Akashganga Colony and Gokulpur of Municipal Corporation Dhamtari, gave clear instructions that the implementation of the project should be completed within the time limit with 'Zero Error'. For this, he directed the Collector to immediately increase the number of survey teams.

​Saw the 'Record of Rights' demonstration on the ground

During the inspection, the Union Secretary witnessed a live demonstration of the ongoing ROR (Record of Rights) construction work at Mr. Domar Singh Sahu's house. He thoroughly understood the workings of the map portal, plot verification, and the process of digitizing land records. The Secretary also asked the survey team technical questions, such as: How long does an entry take? How are discrepancies between recorded land and actual possession being resolved? What measures have been taken to protect government land?

An end to controversies and a new era of transparency

Shri Narendra Bhushan stated that the accurate digitization of urban land records will prove to be a milestone for future civic amenities and transparency. Reviewing the draft publication, claims and objections, and redressal process, he stated that “citizen participation is the cornerstone of this scheme's success.”

Dhamtari became the role model of the state

Director of Land Records, Mr. Vineet Nandanwar, stated that this pilot project is underway in three cities of Chhattisgarh: Dhamtari, Jagdalpur, and Ambikapur. Dhamtari is leading the way, where ground truthing is nearly complete and most draft rights records have been prepared.

Citizen services to be linked to Digital Door Numbering (DDN)

Collector Abinash Mishra informed the Secretary that digital door numbering is being implemented in the district alongside the project. This will facilitate online tax and utility bill payments in the future. This will enable integrated digital management of citizen services and promote smart governance.

Municipal Corporation Commissioner and Nodal Officer Priya Goyal provided information on ward-wise population and survey staff. Meanwhile, State Master Trainer Deepchand Bharti highlighted the portal's technical challenges and legal solutions.

Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Apex Bank Chairman Shri Mahavir Singh Rathore. The Chief Minister said that Shri Rathore always worked in public life with dedication, simplicity and a spirit of public welfare.

Appreciating his contribution, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the life of Shri Rathore remained completely devoted to public service, organisational responsibilities and social causes. His simple, gentle and hardworking personality was a source of inspiration for all. The demise of Shri Rathore is an irreparable loss to the political, social spheres and will always be remembered for his services and dedication.

Chief Minister prayed to Lord Shri Ram for peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family members and supporters to bear this loss

Raipur: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai has appealed to the people of the state not to worry about the availability of petrol and diesel. He stated that Chhattisgarh has sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel and that fuel is being supplied regularly to all oil depots in the state.

Chief Minister Mr. Sai stated that the state government and oil companies are continuously monitoring the situation in full coordination. He clarified that despite the global situation, the Indian government has ensured effective preparations and there are no problems with fuel supply.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has also appealed to the countrymen to avoid unnecessary shopping and hoarding and not to pay attention to any rumours.

Chief Minister Shri Sai urged the people of the state to exercise restraint, awareness, and responsibility. They should only use fuel as needed and stay away from any misleading information or rumors. He said that with your vigilance, restraint, and cooperation, the fuel supply in Chhattisgarh and the entire country will remain consistently smooth.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that we all should together prove ourselves to be responsible citizens and ensure our contribution in the national interest with restraint, cooperation and positive thinking.