Raipur : Scouting is a way of life that teaches a person to be self-reliant even in difficult circumstances, to work with team spirit, and to remain dedicated to society. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said this while addressing as the chief guest at the grand closing ceremony of the first National Rover-Ranger Jamboree held in village Dudhli of Balod district today.

Chief Minister Shri Sai warmly welcomed the Rover-Rangers and Scout-Guides from various states of the country to Chhattisgarh, the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram and the place of penance of Mother Shabari, and wished them a bright future. He said that this Jamboree is not just an event, but a vibrant celebration of India's unity in diversity.

National Jamboree becomes a living glimpse of 'One India, Best India'

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the National Rover-Ranger Jamboree of this scale being held for the first time in the country and Chhattisgarh's selection for it is a matter of pride for the entire state. This event embodies Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat." He said that Rover-Rangers from various states impressively showcased India's rich diversity through cultural presentations, tableaux, and activities.

Youth are the future of the nation, Scouting gives leadership power

Addressing the youth, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that youth are the future of the state and the country. Citing Swami Vivekananda's inspiring quote – "Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached," he urged the youth to move forward with confidence and determination.

He said that the values ​​like discipline, service, leadership and teamwork taught by the Scout-Guide organization prepare the youth for nation building. The Chief Minister, while praising the service work done by the Scout-Guides during the Corona period, said that they played an important role in keeping the society aware and safe. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai also administered the oath to the youth present under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 'Child Marriage Free India Campaign'.

Raipur : Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai today performed the ground breaking ceremony and inauguration of 103 development works worth Rs 233 crore at Gunderdehi, the Nagar Panchayat headquarters in Balod district. This included the ground breaking ceremony of 61 works worth Rs 163.88 crore and the inauguration of 42 works worth Rs 69.82 crore. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai also announced Rs 1 crore for a fully equipped community hall in Gunderdehi and Rs 1 crore for development works in each ward.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the development projects inaugurated and foundation stones laid today are not just buildings, but new doors of opportunity. He said that the commercial complex, being built at a cost of ₹1 crore, will provide new opportunities for self-employment and business for the youth, while the construction of roads, bridges, and infrastructure will facilitate transportation and boost economic activity.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central and State governments are committed to the inclusive development of all sections of society. The Mahtari Vandan Yojana is providing economic support to women, the highest support price is being provided to tendu leaf collectors, and the relaunching of the Charan Paduka Yojana is providing relief to tribal workers. Value addition to forest produce is also encouraging local employment generation. He added that the Ram Lalla Darshan Yojana is connecting the public with the country's culture and heritage. An effective rehabilitation policy is bringing peace to Naxal-affected areas and sparking new development in the Bastar region. Infrastructure such as roads, health, education, and communication are rapidly expanding.

Chief Minister Shri Sai said that National Youth Day is being celebrated today on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda Jayanti. Swami Vivekananda's thoughts still inspire youth to self-confidence, national service, and self-reliance. He said that Chhattisgarh is celebrating its silver jubilee this year, and the construction of the Digital Tribal Museum in Raipur is a special gift from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on this occasion, preserving the glorious stories of tribal heroes. Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the state government is working with full commitment to take Chhattisgarh to new heights of development.

Speaking on the occasion, MP Shri Bhojraj Nag said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Chhattisgarh is rapidly advancing towards new heights of development. He said that Bastar, once known for its Red Terror, is now moving forward on the path of peace, progress, and prosperity, and this will directly benefit the common citizens.

At the event, Chief Minister Sai was greeted by local traders by weighing him with laddus. He distributed goods and certificates to eligible beneficiaries under various departmental schemes. Collector Ms. Divya Umesh Mishra presented the district's progress report, while Nagar Panchayat President Mr. Pramod Jain outlined the city's development needs in his welcome address.

Many public representatives, senior administrative and police officers and a large number of citizens were present on this occasion.

Jashpurnagar . Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, the paddy procurement process in Jashpur district is being conducted in a systematic, transparent, and smooth manner. Farmers are continuously arriving at various procurement centers in the district to procure paddy at the support price under the 2025-26 Kharif marketing year. The positive impact of the government's farmer-friendly policies and effective management system is now clearly visible on the ground.

Mohammad Aziz, a farmer from Lodhma village, who came to sell his produce at the paddy procurement center in Mahua Toli, Kunkuri, said that the process of selling paddy at the center was very simple and convenient. He said that through the online token system, he received his token on time without any hassle. From the issuance of slips to the weighing process, everything went smoothly and systematically. Clean and sufficient gunny bags were provided at the center, and the weighing process was completely transparent.

Farmer Aziz explained that the online token system is now providing significant convenience to farmers, saving time and eliminating unnecessary waiting. He praised the government's arrangements and expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai. He said that purchasing paddy at the support price is ensuring farmers receive a fair price for their hard work, which has not only boosted their confidence but also given them a sense of respect and security.

Raipur: Taking strict action against the violation of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, the Chhattisgarh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (CG RERA) has imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on two landowners of Raipur, Shri Govardhan and Shri Ramanuj.

The Authority learned that the two landowners were developing a plot named Om Farm, Lakholi Railway Station, and were advertising, promoting, and selling the property without valid RERA registration. This activity is a clear violation of Section 3 of the Act. According to Section 3, it is strictly prohibited to advertise, book, or offer sales invitations for any real estate project without RERA registration.

Taking strict action against violations of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, the authority has issued a warning stating that any plotting, advertising, or sale without registration will be considered a serious legal offense. Furthermore, more stringent legal action will be taken in such cases in the future.

After investigating the matter, examining documents, and conducting a hearing, the authority concluded that the individuals involved had violated the law. Consequently, CG RERA imposed a total penalty of ₹5 lakh on both landowners.

Raipur. Strengthening road infrastructure in central Chhattisgarh, the four-lane upgradation of the Raipur-Kodebod section of National Highway 30 has been successfully completed. Implemented by the National Highways Authority of India under the National Highway Development Programme, the 33.2-kilometer project transforms a long-stressed two-lane road into a modern four-lane divided highway, significantly improving connectivity and travel efficiency between Raipur, Dhamtari, and surrounding hinterland.
Approved in September 2016, the ₹987.88 crore project spans from kilometer 10,200 to 43,400 of National Highway 30 and strengthens passenger traffic, as well as agricultural logistics and regional freight transportation. Challenges related to material supply and inter-ministerial coordination were encountered during construction. The availability of fly ash and pond ash required for embankment construction—which was being procured from the Sipat and Lara units of the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited—was affected from time to time due to regulatory interpretations and coordination requirements, impacting the work sequence.

Meanwhile, a case arose regarding 0.256 hectares of land in Boriyakala village, Raipur district, which was later identified as Defence Research and Development Organisation land. Work on this plot required formal transfer and work authorization from the Ministry of Defence. Despite its limited size, the site was strategically important, and the halt in work there would have impacted the continuity of the entire corridor.

Following a review of the project under the Proactive Governance and Timely Implementation platform in February 2023, emphasis was placed on expediting the resolution of pending land and material supply issues. Close coordination between central government ministries and the Chhattisgarh government, combined with joint action by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Power, Ministry of Defence, National Thermal Power Corporation Limited, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and the state government, stabilized fly ash supplies and resolved defense land issues through evaluation, approval, and work permitting. Following the removal of these obstacles, construction progressed rapidly, and the project achieved 100% physical progress and commenced operations on June 20, 2023. The upgraded highway was formally dedicated to the nation with the issuance of the provisional completion certificate by the authorized engineer.

The project's operation has resulted in a 30-40 percent increase in average vehicle speed, a nearly 50 percent reduction in travel time, and a significant drop in fuel consumption and vehicle operating costs. The route between Raipur—Chhattisgarh's administrative and commercial hub—and Dhamtari district, with a population of approximately 800,000, has now emerged as a strong economic hub, benefiting over 4.5-5 million people in the surrounding districts. The movement of paddy, forest produce, cement, steel, and construction materials has been facilitated; farmers, traders, and transporters have improved access to mandis, rice mills, and urban markets. Approximately 3,000-4,000 direct and indirect jobs were created during the construction period, while after its operation, the route continues to support dhabas, fuel stations, transportation services, and logistics-based micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Overall, the Raipur-Kodebod four-lane project demonstrates that high-level monitoring and effective coordination can ensure timely completion of complex infrastructure projects. This highway has now established itself as a key cornerstone of long-term mobility and economic development for Chhattisgarh.

Raipur. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai paid tribute to Swami Vivekananda by offering flowers to his portrait at the Chief Minister's residence on the occasion of his birth anniversary today. He extended his heartfelt greetings to the youth of the state on National Youth Day. He stated that Swami Vivekananda's life and thoughts continue to be the greatest source of energy, direction, and self-confidence for India's youth.
Chief Minister Sai stated that Swami Vivekananda instilled in the youth the belief that they are the architects of their own future. His thoughts inspired them to make service, self-confidence, and patriotism their life's purpose. Today, as India moves toward the Amritkaal, Vivekananda's teachings guide young people to become responsible, self-reliant, and nationally conscious citizens. He stated that it is a matter of pride for Chhattisgarh that Swami Vivekananda's life was also connected to Raipur. His time spent here gives a special identity to the state's cultural consciousness and ideological tradition.

Chief Minister Sai expressed confidence that the thoughts of Swami Vivekananda will continue to inspire the coming generations and the youth of the entire country including Chhattisgarh will play a leading role in serving the society, nation and humanity by adopting his ideals.

00 Initiative to empower farmers and producer organizations and promote agricultural exports of Chhattisgarh
Raipur. In a significant step towards establishing Chhattisgarh as a major hub for export of agricultural and processed food products, the regional office of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was inaugurated in Raipur. This inauguration took place during the 2nd India International Rice Summit held in Chhattisgarh. The program was attended by Health and Family Welfare Minister and Medical Education Minister of Chhattisgarh Government, Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal and other dignitaries.

Chhattisgarh, endowed with a rich and diverse agro-ecosystem, has vast export potential for a number of products. These include high-quality non-basmati rice varieties and Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products such as Jeera Phool rice and Nagri Dubaraaj rice. Furthermore, the state produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, including guava, banana, dragon fruit, jackfruit, custard apple, tomato, and cucumber, as well as important minor forest produce such as mahua, tamarind, medicinal, and herbal plants, which offer strong opportunities to expand the state's presence in global markets

The establishment of APEDA's regional office in Raipur is a significant milestone for Chhattisgarh's agricultural economy. This office will provide farmers, producer groups, cooperatives, and exporters with services such as export registration, consulting services, market intelligence, certification assistance, export facilitation, infrastructure development, and market linkages. Recently, the Raipur-based APEDA regional office successfully facilitated the export of fortified rice kernels from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica and Papua New Guinea.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that the inauguration of the APEDA Regional Office in Raipur is a mission to connect Chhattisgarh's farmers with the global economy. He highlighted the immense potential for the state's farmers, exporters, and entrepreneurs in global agricultural markets and expressed confidence that Chhattisgarh will emerge as a leading state in high-value and sustainable agricultural exports. He thanked Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal for approving the establishment of the APEDA office in Chhattisgarh at the state government's request and assured APEDA and the Commerce Department of full support in expanding the export of agricultural and organic products from the state.
The inauguration of the APEDA Regional Office took place during the second edition of the India International Rice Summit, organized by the Chhattisgarh Rice Exporters Association in collaboration with APEDA and other organizations. The two-day "Chintan Shivir" on rice exports also concluded on the same occasion, with sessions focusing on measures to promote the export of organic rice and non-basmati rice, especially GI-tagged rice varieties.

Raipur. Strengthening road infrastructure in central Chhattisgarh, the four-lane upgradation of the Raipur-Kodebod section of National Highway 30 has been successfully completed. Implemented by the National Highways Authority of India under the National Highway Development Programme, the 33.2-kilometer project transforms a long-stressed two-lane road into a modern four-lane divided highway, significantly improving connectivity and travel efficiency between Raipur, Dhamtari, and surrounding hinterland.
Approved in September 2016, the ₹987.88 crore project spans from kilometer 10,200 to 43,400 of National Highway 30 and strengthens passenger traffic, as well as agricultural logistics and regional freight transportation. Challenges related to material supply and inter-ministerial coordination were encountered during construction. The availability of fly ash and pond ash required for embankment construction—which was being procured from the Sipat and Lara units of the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited—was affected from time to time due to regulatory interpretations and coordination requirements, impacting the work sequence.

Meanwhile, a case arose regarding 0.256 hectares of land in Boriyakala village, Raipur district, which was later identified as Defence Research and Development Organisation land. Work on this plot required formal transfer and work authorization from the Ministry of Defence. Despite its limited size, the site was strategically important, and the halt in work there would have impacted the continuity of the entire corridor.

Following a review of the project under the Proactive Governance and Timely Implementation platform in February 2023, emphasis was placed on expediting the resolution of pending land and material supply issues. Close coordination between central government ministries and the Chhattisgarh government, combined with joint action by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Ministry of Power, Ministry of Defence, National Thermal Power Corporation Limited, Defence Research and Development Organisation, and the state government, stabilized fly ash supplies and resolved defense land issues through evaluation, approval, and work permitting. Following the removal of these obstacles, construction progressed rapidly, and the project achieved 100% physical progress and commenced operations on June 20, 2023. The upgraded highway was formally dedicated to the nation with the issuance of the provisional completion certificate by the authorized engineer.

The project's operation has resulted in a 30-40 percent increase in average vehicle speed, a nearly 50 percent reduction in travel time, and a significant drop in fuel consumption and vehicle operating costs. The route between Raipur—Chhattisgarh's administrative and commercial hub—and Dhamtari district, with a population of approximately 800,000, has now emerged as a strong economic hub, benefiting over 4.5-5 million people in the surrounding districts. The movement of paddy, forest produce, cement, steel, and construction materials has been facilitated; farmers, traders, and transporters have improved access to mandis, rice mills, and urban markets. Approximately 3,000-4,000 direct and indirect jobs were created during the construction period, while after its operation, the route continues to support dhabas, fuel stations, transportation services, and logistics-based micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Overall, the Raipur-Kodebod four-lane project demonstrates that high-level monitoring and effective coordination can ensure timely completion of complex infrastructure projects. This highway has now established itself as a key cornerstone of long-term mobility and economic development for Chhattisgarh.

Raipur:  With the aim of achieving self-sufficiency in edible oils and ensuring long-term and sustainable growth in farmers' income, the National Mission on Edible Oil-Oil Palm Scheme is being effectively implemented jointly by the Central and State governments. Under this scheme, in addition to Central Government grants, the State Government is providing top-up grants in various components to encourage oil palm cultivation, thereby providing financial support to farmers.

          Assistant Director of Horticulture, Mungeli, stated that the state government has provided special assistance, considering the high initial cost of oil palm cultivation and the gestation period of three to four years. In addition to the minimum subsidy of 1.30 lakh rupees per hectare provided by the central government, the state government is providing top-up grants to farmers, so that more and more farmers are attracted to this crop.

     Oil palm is a long-term, low-labor, and high-yield crop. It is extremely disease-prone. Once planted, production begins in the fourth year and provides consistent yields for 25 to 30 years. Compared to traditional oilseed crops, oil palm has a 4- to 6-fold higher oil production per hectare, providing farmers with a stable and assured income.

Additional grants under various heads

       The state government is providing additional subsidy to the eligible farmers planting oil palm as follows: In this, in the maintenance item, by increasing the pre-determined amount of Rs. 5,250 per hectare by Rs. 1,500, totaling Rs. 6,750 per hectare; for intercropping, with the increase, totaling Rs. 10,250 per hectare; farmers adopting drip irrigation system are provided with additional assistance of Rs. 8,635, totaling Rs. 22,765 per hectare; a subsidy of Rs. 54,485 per hectare is provided for fencing to protect the planted plants and intercropping crops from animals. In this way, the state government is providing additional subsidy of up to Rs. 69,620 to the farmers planting oil palm under the heads of maintenance, fencing, intercropping and drip irrigation.

      This subsidy will be payable only to farmers who plant oil palm under the scheme. For detailed information, eligibility, application process, and technical guidance, farmers can contact Horticulture Department officials or authorized representative companies. Cultivating oil palm will not only strengthen farmers' economic status but also strengthen the national resolve to make the country self-sufficient in edible oils.

CG News: On the occasion of National Youth Day and Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai will have a very busy schedule on Monday, January 12. CM Sai will attend several important events from the capital Raipur to Gunderdehi and Doondilhora in Balod district.

After the morning's events, the Chief Minister will return to the Chief Minister's residence at 9:20 a.m. and remain in the reserve for a short time. He will then arrive at the Police Ground helipad at 12:25 p.m. and depart by helicopter for Gunderdehi in Balod district.

CM to attend closing ceremony of National Rover Ranger Jamboree
From 1 pm to 2 pm, the Chief Minister will perform ground breaking and inauguration of various development works in Gunderdehi Nagar Panchayat. After this, he will reach Dudhli village of Doondilhora development block, where he will attend the "First National Rover-Ranger Jamboree" program from 3 pm to 4 pm.

00 Government policies are implemented on the ground only due to the hard work, dedication and discipline of the employees: Chief Minister
00 Chief Minister addressed the triennial 8th State Convention of State Employees Union, Chhattisgarh

Raipur. Employees are the backbone of governance and administration, and it is only through their honesty, diligence, and sensitivity that government plans, policies, and decisions are implemented. Chhattisgarh's administrative structure is functioning effectively only because of your hard work, dedication, and discipline. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai said this while addressing the triennial eighth state convention organized by the State Employees Union, Chhattisgarh, at the Saraswati Shiksha Sansthan campus in Rohinipuram, Raipur.

Chief Minister Shri Sai, taking a significant decision in the interest of state government officials and employees, announced an increase in dearness allowance from 55 percent to 58 percent, similar to the central government. He stated that this decision will provide real relief to employees amid rising inflation. He said that this decision reflects the government's commitment to employee-friendly behavior.

Addressing the convention, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that this convention is a powerful opportunity for organizational deliberations as well as strengthening the resolve for good governance. Only when the government and employees work shoulder to shoulder does the path to development become clear and the governance system becomes more robust. He said that in the last two years, the government has taken several important decisions in the interest of employees. By improving the transfer policy, promotion process, and workplace arrangements, the administration has been made more transparent, streamlined, and employee-friendly. The formation of the Department of Good Governance and Convergence has further strengthened the public-trust-based governance system.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that special attention has been paid to the timely payment of pensions, gratuities, and other retirement benefits, ensuring that employees do not face any inconvenience at the time of retirement. The state has also provided a strong legislative foundation in this regard by establishing the Chhattisgarh Pension Fund and passing the Pension Fund Bill in the Legislative Assembly. He stated that the efficiency of employees has been strengthened through e-office, online services, and technological innovations, while training and capacity building programs are preparing them to adapt to changing times.
Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that Chhattisgarh is a state rich in natural resources. Naxalism was once a major challenge for the state, but our security forces have fought it resolutely with unparalleled courage and valor. Saluting the valor of the security forces from the stage, he stated that a better and more humane rehabilitation policy has been implemented for surrendered Naxalites. In accordance with the resolve of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the goal of completely eradicating Naxalism from the country has been set for March 31, 2026. Peace and order is rapidly being established in the Bastar region and basic amenities like electricity, water and roads are being provided to remote forest areas through the Niyyad Nella Nar scheme. In accordance with the national goal of Developed India 2047, the state government has also prepared Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047 and given new direction and momentum to the development of the state.
On this occasion, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Labour Welfare Board Mr. Yogesh Dutt Mishra, All India President of Rashtriya Rajya Karmachari Sangh Mr. Gaurav Kumar Soni, General Secretary Mr. Rajendra Kumar Srivastava, President of Rajya Karmachari Sangh Chhattisgarh Mr. Arun Tiwari, State General Secretary Mr. Ashwani Chelak and a large number of employees and officers were present.

Raipur.  In the capital, Raipur, cyber fraudsters posing as businessmen defrauded a lawyer of ₹55,000 online. The accused duped him via WhatsApp and forced him to make a UPI transaction. The incident occurred in the Civil Lines police station area, where police have registered a case and begun an investigation based on the victim's complaint.

According to reports, Vijay Kumar Das, a lawyer by profession, lives with his family in Shankar Nagar Sector-02, near Durga Maidan. He told police that on January 8th, at around 4:15 p.m., he received a WhatsApp message on his mobile phone asking for a transfer of ₹55,000. The sender, claiming to be an acquaintance and a businessman at Navkar Jewellers, told him that his UPI was currently down, so he should send the money temporarily, which would be refunded within two hours.

Trusting him as he was an acquaintance, Vijay Kumar Das transferred Rs 55,000 from his account at Union Bank, Pandri Raipur to the UPI ID given through Phone-Pay.

After sending the money, he sent a screenshot of the payment via WhatsApp, but the message was not delivered. He then contacted Navkar Jewellers' actual mobile number. Shortly after, Navkar Jewellers called, stating that their WhatsApp account had been hacked and that they had not received any money requests. Only then did the lawyer realize he had been duped.

According to the police, fraudsters hacked the WhatsApp account of Navkar Jewellers and sent messages in their name, resulting in an online transaction of ₹55,000. Police have registered a case and are searching for the cyber fraudsters

Raipur: Farmers are getting convenience in selling paddy due to transparent and digital system implemented at paddy procurement centers. Now the paddy selling process has become simple, easy and simple due to the system made by the government. Lal Sandil, a farmer of Gram Panchayat Ghanghari under Ambikapur development block, told that this year a total area of ​​19.60 quintals of paddy is registered in the name of his grandfather Jhemal Ram Sandil. He told that the digital system has saved time and there is no problem of crowd in the procurement center.

         Sandil said that upon reaching the Namna Kalan paddy procurement centre, the moisture testing process was completed near the gate and gunny bags were immediately made available. This ensured no inconvenience in the sale of paddy. He said that for the convenience of the farmers, arrangements for drinking water and shaded seating have been made at the committee centre and the committee employees are providing support at every level. He said that under the government of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, paddy is getting the highest price of Rs 3100 per quintal and up to 21 quintals are being purchased per acre, due to which the farmers are getting benefits.

         Farmer Sandil said that with the proceeds from selling paddy, he is cultivating other crops like wheat, oilseeds, and vegetables, which has increased his income and improved his financial situation. He praised the paddy procurement system, saying that receiving fair prices for produce is strengthening the rural economy. He expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai for his work in the interest of farmers and said that farmers are extremely satisfied and happy with the current paddy procurement system.

Raipur: The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) is fulfilling the dream of permanent housing for needy rural families in the district. Families once forced to live in mud houses are now finding security and dignity in their lives. Under the direction of the Collector and the leadership of the District Panchayat CEO, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) is being effectively implemented in the district, leading to the rapid construction of permanent houses in rural areas.

    Krishna Vishwas, a resident of the village panchayat Ajrima in the Ambikapur development block, has a permanent house ready. His daughter, Sutapsi Vishwas, said that earlier their family used to live in a mud house, where it was extremely difficult to live, especially during the rainy season. Along with water leaking from the roof, there was also the fear of poisonous creatures. Krishna Vishwas said that the incentive received from the government under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural) gave his family the strength to build a permanent house. By combining the capital saved from agricultural labour with the government assistance, he built the permanent house of his dreams. Today, a total of five members, including his parents and grandfather, are living safely and respectfully in this house.

   Taapsee Biswas said that the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) is proving to be a boon for needy rural families. This scheme has not only provided them with safe housing, but also given them stability and self-respect. Expressing her family's gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, she said that this government welfare scheme has fulfilled their dream of a permanent home and improved the living standards of rural families.

Raipur:  The Mahtari Vandan Yojana, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai to strengthen the economic independence, self-respect, and decisive role of women in Chhattisgarh, is emerging as an effective and far-reaching women's empowerment initiative. This scheme not only provides regular financial assistance to women, but also connects them with new opportunities for self-employment and livelihood, making them self-reliant.

The story of women's empowerment from economic strength to self-reliance

    Under the scheme, eligible women are receiving a fixed monthly assistance of ₹1,000 directly into their bank accounts. So far, a total of ₹14,948 crore 34 lakh has been provided to millions of women in the state in 23 installments. This regular support has reduced women's worries about household expenses, boosted their self-confidence, and empowered them to take an active role in economic decisions.
Steps Toward Self-Employment

    The most positive aspect of the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is that women are utilizing the assistance and starting small businesses. Urmila Yadav, a resident of Ward No. 2 of Champa Nagar in Janjgir-Champa district, started a business making artificial jewelry by saving the monthly payment. Today, she earns an additional income of approximately 2,000 rupees per month by selling jewelry from home and at weekly markets.

    Similarly, Jyoti Kaser of Champa started a papad business with the help of the scheme, which now generates a monthly profit of approximately 5,000 rupees. This allows her to easily meet her family's educational and healthcare needs. Sumitra Karsh of Sarhar village started a cosmetics shop, earning an additional income of approximately 1,000 rupees per month, while Kusum Devi Pandey expanded her cosmetics shop and now earns a monthly profit of 2,000 rupees.

This scheme is providing stability to the lives of poor families,
    providing financial security even to families dependent on wages and limited income. Satrupa Gandharva, a resident of Majhgaon village in Kabirdham district and from a wage-dependent family, has so far received Rs 23,000 in 23 installments under the scheme. She says this amount has been used to cover her children's education, household needs, and personal expenses.

    Their needs are being met easily. With regular assistance, they are now able to save some money, eliminating the worry of unexpected expenses. Omlata, who belongs to a simple farmer family from Raghunathnagar village in Balrampur district, has also benefited from this scheme and moved forward towards self-reliance.  

Increasing Women's Respect and Participation
    Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade stated that the Mahatari Vandan Yojana is an initiative that brings stability, respect, and self-confidence to women's lives. Regular financial assistance has enabled women to play an active role in meeting family needs and has increased their participation in economic decisions. She directed officials to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach every eligible woman in a timely and transparent manner.

    Today, the Mahtari Vandan Yojana is not just a financial assistance program, but has become a strong foundation for women's dreams, self-reliance, and social empowerment. This scheme is giving women in the state the opportunity to move forward with confidence and is establishing a new identity for Chhattisgarh in the field of women's empowerment.

00 Chief Minister made the announcement at the India International Rice Summit
00 Demand for organic products is increasing rapidly - Sai

Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today attended the India International Rice Summit held at a private resort in the capital Raipur. On this occasion, he has given a big gift to the rice exporters. The period of exemption in market fee has been extended by one year. The announcement made by CM Sai during the India International Rice Summit is a big gift for both rice exporters and farmers. Along with this, the regional office of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was also inaugurated. He said that at present the demand for organic products is increasing rapidly and organic rice is being cultivated in Dantewada, which needs to be encouraged further.

Chief Minister Shri Sai stated that this second edition of the India International Rice Summit is extremely important. The presence of buyers from 12 countries and embassy delegations from six countries will help Chhattisgarh gain international recognition. He welcomed and greeted all foreign guests on the sacred land of Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister stated that our ancestors thoughtfully called Chhattisgarh the rice bowl, and today the state is living up to this name. Rice has been an integral part of Chhattisgarh's cuisine, and thousands of rice varieties are grown here. Referring to the fragrant Jeera Phool and Dubaraj rice varieties of the Surguja region, he said their aroma is recognizable from afar. Rice exports from Chhattisgarh will receive a boost. Rice exports have long been demanding exemptions from market fees. The government granted exemptions last year as well, but the exemption expires in December 2025.
The Chief Minister stated that under the state government's new industrial policy, small-scale industries are being promoted, which will strengthen rice processing and exports. He said that Chhattisgarh currently exports nearly 100,000 tons of rice to approximately 90 countries. The government is always ready to support exporters. He informed that 21 quintals of paddy per acre are being purchased from farmers in the state at a rate of Rs. 3,100 per quintal. Last year, 149 lakh metric tons of paddy were purchased, and this year 
's purchase is expected to increase again. During the event, the Chief Minister also shared information about the schemes implemented by the Central and State governments for the benefit of farmers. During the India International Rice Summit, Chief Minister Shri Sai visited the rice exhibition. He inquired about various rice varieties, regionally produced varieties, innovations in rice production, and efforts to increase productivity through modern technology. The Chief Minister also inspected government stalls and praised the efforts being made to promote rice production and marketing. The Chief Minister stated that such innovations will increase rice production, directly benefiting farmers and strengthening the state's economy.
On this occasion, Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, Chairman of APEDA Shri Abhishek Dev, President of Chhattisgarh Rice Millers Association Shri Kanti Lal, Shri Ram Garg, millers, rice businessmen and stakeholders from across the country were present.