National
Big breaking : WhatsApp launches a dozen new features
Delhi : WhatsApp is constantly testing new features through its beta channel, and these usually take months to finally launch for everyone. Today the service actually released a dozen new features at the same time, so let's go through them one by one.
First, there's now an Online indicator in group chats, showing you which members are available right under the group name. Second, you can choose to only receive Highlights from groups, which limits notifications to mentions, replies, and messages from saved contacts. Third, you can now create an event in a 1-to-1 chat, RSVP as "maybe", invite a plus one, add an end date and time for longer events, and pin an event in a chat.
Players will now get Rs 3 lakh for international competitions: State government made provision in sports promotion scheme
Raipur. On the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, the state government will now provide assistance of up to three lakh rupees to players to participate in international competitions. Due to financial difficulties, the players of the state often miss out on participating in international competitions.For this, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has made a provision of a maximum of Rs 3 lakh in this year's budget. Apart from this, funds will also be released by the state government for equipment etc. of the respective sports for preparation before participating in these competitions.
This provision will be made under the sports promotion scheme. Only Olympic Games, World Cup, Asian Games or Commonwealth Games have been included in this. For this, it will be mandatory for the players to submit their selection letter and original travel tickets etc.For this, action will be taken by the collector on grant cases after the recommendation or approval of the minister in charge.
Sports Director Mrs. Tanuja Salam said that the government has kept a budget of 50 crores for the scheme in this financial year. Mainly 6 points have been included in it.These include developing sports infrastructure from villages to district headquarters, identifying sports talent and upgrading playgrounds and providing sports equipment, promoting sports club culture and providing financial assistance to registered committees or clubs for organising competitions.
Another historic step towards the total destruction of Naxalism: 26 hardcore Naxalites surrendered in Dantewada, Chief Minister Sai congratulated the security forces
Raipur. The decisive campaigns being run by the Chhattisgarh government against Naxalism have got another big success. Today, 26 hardcore Naxalites surrendered before the security forces in Dantewada district, which is a proof of the success and credibility of the state's new surrender and rehabilitation policy - 2025.On this occasion, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai extended his heartfelt greetings to the security forces and said that our resolve to completely eradicate Naxalism is getting continuous success. Niyada Nella Nar Yojana and Lon Varratu Abhiyan played an important role in this achievement.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai paid tribute to senior journalist Late Madhukar Kher on his death anniversary
Raipur: Remembering senior journalist late Madhukar Kher on his death anniversary (31 March), Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai said that his contribution in enriching Hindi and English journalism in Chhattisgarh is invaluable.Chief Minister Shri Sai said that late Shri Madhukar Kher worked to make the society aware, bring public problems to the fore and inspire positive change through his unbiased, factual and public interest journalism. His writings were not only related to social concerns.Chief Minister Shri Sai said that Shri Kher's dedication and his legacy of journalism remain a source of inspiration for the new generation even today. His thoughts, principles and values inspire us to move forward in the direction of fair, strong and society-oriented journalism
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai expressed deep condolences on the earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand
Raipur. Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has expressed deep sorrow over the widespread loss of life due to the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. He said that this horrific picture of natural disaster has made the mind extremely disturbed and sad.My condolences are with the affected families in this sad moment. He said that Indians stand firmly with the people of Myanmar and Thailand in this difficult time. He prayed to God for everyone's well-being
CM Vishnu Deo Sai Inaugurates Aviation Training in Jashpur, Boosts NCC Cadets’ Morale : State Government to Support Aspiring Pilots with Comprehensive Assistance
Raipur, March 16, 2025/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today launched Jashpur’s first-ever aviation training program at the Aagdih Airstrip, marking a historic step toward making Chhattisgarh a hub for aviation education. While interacting with the cadets of the 3 CG Air Squadron NCC Raipur, Chief Minister Shri Sai lauded their enthusiasm and emphasized that Jashpur is now progressing beyond tourism and agriculture to become a center for skill development in aviation.
CM Sai reiterated the state government's commitment to empowering the youth by providing advanced career opportunities in diverse fields. He assured that aspiring pilots will receive full government support in their journey to the skies.
In his address, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that this aviation training initiative is a significant leap forward for Jashpur and Chhattisgarh’s youth. He assured that the state government will provide continuous support to ensure that aspiring pilots receive world-class training and career opportunities. He said,"This program is not just about learning to fly; it is about empowering our youth, transforming Jashpur into an aviation training hub, and putting Chhattisgarh on the national aviation map."
Concluding his speech, CM Sai extended his best wishes to the NCC cadets, trainers, and officials, encouraging them to make the most of this golden opportunity. He said, "With determination and skill, Chhattisgarh’s youth will soon take to the skies and make the state proud."
Inspecting the Microlight Air Squadron aircraft, CM Sai received technical briefings from experts and instructed officials to organize educational exposure visits for cadets to Jashpur’s key tourist and ecological sites. He highlighted that Jashpur is fast emerging as an agricultural hub with cashew, tea, and apple cultivation expanding significantly.
*Aviation Training in Jashpur: A Game-Changer for 100 NCC Cadets*
Since March 7, 2025, aviation training has been conducted daily at sunrise, offering cadets practical flying experience including takeoffs, mid-air maneuvers, and safe landings. This initiative, the first outside Raipur, has generated tremendous excitement among the 100 NCC cadets undergoing flight training.
*Training on Virus SW-80 Twin-Seater Aircraft*
The Agadih Airstrip, with its 1,200-meter runway and 25-meter width, is well-suited for flight training. Cadets are learning on the single-engine, twin-seater Virus SW-80 aircraft, capable of flying at 20,000 feet. However, training flights are currently limited to 1,000 feet for safety and learning efficiency.
According to the Commanding Officer, NCC Air Wing cadets who achieve high grades in the ‘C’ Certificate exam become directly eligible for Indian Air Force interviews, making this a crucial milestone in their aviation careers.
Expressing their excitement, trainee Nitesh Prajapati shared that Jashpur’s pollution-free skies and serene environment make it a perfect location for aviation training. He said, "My dream is to become an Air Force pilot, and this program is my stepping stone."
Another cadet, Pranshu Chauhan, highlighted the clear air traffic and obstruction-free runway, ensuring seamless training sessions. He added: "Training in the lap of nature is an unforgettable experience. The absence of urban air traffic congestion makes our learning smoother and more effective."
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of key dignitaries, including Smt. Gomti Sai, Vice Chairperson, Surguja Tribal Development Authority, MLA Smt. Rai Muni Bhagat, District Panchayat President Shri Salik Sai, Surguja Commissioner Shri Narendra Kumar Dugga, IG Shri Ankit Garg, Collector Shri Rohit Vyas, SSP Shri Shashi Mohan Singh, Zila Panchayat CEO Shri Abhishek Kumar along with other officials, aviation trainers, and public representatives.
Innovative Science Awareness Initiative in Jashpur Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur, March 15, 2025: On the festive occasion of Holi, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai met with teacher Shri Vivek Pathak at his residence in Bagiya. During the meeting, Shri Pathak presented a specially curated album featuring news reports and photographs documenting the diverse science awareness programs implemented across schools in Jashpur district.
Expressing his delight at the initiative, Chief Minister Sai lauded the efforts being made to inspire scientific curiosity among students. "The youth of Jashpur are preparing to reach for the skies, a testament to the district’s promising future," he remarked. He also reflected on his recent engaging discussion with the Chairman of ISRO, emphasizing the importance of fostering interest in space science and exploration among students.
"Science and technology hold the key to limitless possibilities. These awareness programs play a crucial role in shaping a new generation of innovators and thinkers. By promoting scientific temperament, we are laying the foundation for groundbreaking advancements," Chief Minister Shri Sai stated.
Under Chief Minister Sai’s leadership, Jashpur district has undertaken several forward-thinking initiatives to encourage innovation and space science. These pioneering programs have not only captivated young minds but also positioned Jashpur as a hub for scientific innovation and exploration.
Chief Minister Shri Sai reaffirmed his commitment to advancing science education, stating that "the success of these initiatives is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge. By nurturing young scientific minds today, we are crafting a brighter, technologically empowered future for tomorrow."
This visionary initiative stands as a beacon of progress, inspiring students to explore new frontiers and embrace the spirit of scientific discovery.
24th meeting of the Council of Ministers under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai on 3 March
Raipur: The 24th meeting of Chhattisgarh Council of Ministers will be held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 12:00 noon. This meeting will be held in the chamber of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai located in Chhattisgarh Assembly.
Newly Elected Mayor and Councilors of Raipur Municipal Corporation Take Oath with a Vision for Progress : "Commit to Making Raipur a Clean, Well-Organized, and Prosperous City" – Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur : The oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected Mayor and Councilors of Raipur Municipal Corporation was held today at Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium, Raipur, in the distinguished presence of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai. The event marked a significant milestone in the city's governance, with Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh administering the oath ward-wise to all newly elected representatives.
Smt. Meenal Chaubey was sworn in as the Mayor in the presence of the Chief Minister. Addressing the gathering, Shri Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the newly elected public representatives and expressed confidence in their commitment to fulfilling the promises outlined in the Atal Vishwas Patra. He urged them to work with unwavering dedication to transform Raipur into a cleaner, better-organized, and more prosperous city.
Following the ceremony, Mayor Meenal Chaubey honored Chief Minister Shri Sai, Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Arun Sao and Shri Vijay Sharma, along with Cabinet Ministers, former Mayors, and other dignitaries, by presenting them with mementos as a token of appreciation.
The event saw the esteemed presence of several key leaders, including Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary, Member of Parliament Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, and MLAs Shri Rajesh Munat, Shri Kiran Dev, Shri Sunil Soni, Shri Motilal Sahu, Shri Purandar Mishra, and Shri Anuj Sharma. Former Assembly Speaker Shri Gaurishankar Agrawal and numerous other public representatives also graced the occasion.
Municipal Commissioner Shri Abinash Mishra concluded the event by extending heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, elected representatives, and the citizens of Raipur for their presence and support in shaping the city's future.
MGNREGA Plays a Crucial Role in Strengthening the Rural Economy – Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur : A meeting of the Chhattisgarh Rural Employment Guarantee Council was held today at the Chief Minister's Office in Vidhansabha Campus, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai. The meeting reviewed ongoing projects under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). Chief Minister Shri Sai directed officials to ensure the highest quality and timely execution of MGNREGA projects to maximize benefits for rural families.
He particularly emphasized prioritizing Dharasa approach road construction and the Amrit Sarovar Project to strengthen rural infrastructure and promote water conservation.
Chief Minister Sai stated that the Chhattisgarh government’s objective is not just to provide employment but to make rural areas self-reliant. MGNREGA projects are being implemented with a long-term vision to ensure holistic rural development. He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the implementation process so that the scheme serves as a strong foundation for empowering the poor. He also highlighted the state government's focus on integrating MGNREGA with other development schemes to accelerate the pace of rural progress.
*In-Depth Discussion on Effective Implementation of MGNREGA in the State*
The meeting included a comprehensive review of the financial progress for FY 2023-24 and 2024-25, the labour budget for 2025-26, key performance indicators of the scheme, and the convergence model for better implementation. The annual progress report from 2019-20 to 2023-24 was also presented.
MGNREGA Commissioner Shri Rajat Bansal informed that out of 38.52 lakh registered families in the state, 24.89 lakh families have been provided employment. Under the Amrit Sarovar Scheme, a target has been set to construct 2,902 reservoirs, out of which 1,095 have been approved, 299 have been completed, and work is in progress on 472 sites.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Arun Sao and Shri Vijay Sharma, Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Shri Subodh Singh, Principal Secretary Smt. Niharika Barik, Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. Basavaraju S, Shri P. Dayanand, and Shri Rahul Bhagat, MGNREGA Commissioner Shri Rajat Bansal, and members of the Chhattisgarh Rural Employment Guarantee Council.
Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai Takes a Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam, Prays for the Prosperity of Chhattisgarh
Raipur : On the auspicious occasion of Mahakumbh 2025, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai took a holy dip at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj and prayed for peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of the state. Accompanied by Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, and their family members, the Chief Minister called Mahakumbh the grand confluence of faith, spirituality, and tradition, underscoring its significance as a sacred medium that connects the soul with the divine and embodies the eternal essence of Indian culture.
Chief Minister Shri Sai departed from Raipur Airport for Prayagraj, where he was received with a warm welcome. Along with the dignitaries, he proceeded from Prayagraj Airport to the Sangam Ghat in five electric buses, reflecting a commitment to eco-friendly mobility. At Arel Ghat, the delegation boarded motorboats to reach the Triveni Sangam, where they performed the ritualistic holy dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati rivers. Chief Minister, along with his spouse, performed a traditional puja, offering prayers for the well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh and the nation.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai described the Triveni Sangam as not just a meeting point of rivers, but a spiritual confluence of culture, heritage, and devotion. He emphasized that Mahakumbh is not merely an Indian festival but a global celebration of spiritual consciousness and human unity. He remarked that this grand congregation of saints, seers, and devotees strengthens India's deep-rooted spiritual heritage and serves as a beacon of the Sanatan Dharma’s divine philosophy to the world.
Highlighting Chhattisgarh’s deep spiritual legacy, Chief Minister Shri Sai reaffirmed his government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural traditions on the national and international stage. He stated that Mahakumbh is not just a religious event; it is a timeless symbol of self-discovery. He emphasized that this sacred gathering harmonizes nature, human existence, and the eternal wisdom of Indian sages, showcasing India’s age-old traditions of faith and enlightenment.
Reiterating the importance of cultural conservation, Chief Minister Shri Sai underscored the significance of preservation of ancient traditions. He urged all devotees and pilgrims to contribute to protecting the sacred river, upholding environmental responsibility, and promoting the values of Sanatan culture for future generations.
Concluding his remarks, Chief Minister Shri Sai extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of Chhattisgarh and the entire nation on the occasion of Mahakumbh, praying for universal peace, prosperity, good health, and a brighter future.
Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Taught Us That Our Culture is the Foundation of Our Identity – Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah
Raipur – Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that Jain Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj taught us that our culture defines our identity. If we lose our culture, we lose our recognition in the world. Acharya Ji transcended sectarianism, linguistic divisions, and caste barriers, spreading the message of humanity and universal brotherhood. Shri Shah expressed these thoughts while addressing the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj’s memorial at Chandragiri Teerth in Dongargarh. The event was presided over by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai.
The Union Home Minister emphasized the pivotal role of Jain Acharyas and monks in uniting the nation. From Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh to Shravanabelagola in Karnataka, and from Rajgir in Bihar to Girnar in Gujarat, Jain saints have traveled barefoot, illuminating lives with wisdom and inspiring people through their renunciation and penance. He likened Acharya Vidyasagar Ji to a Kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling tree), whose life was dedicated to selfless service and spirituality, offering inspiration to millions. He commended the initiative to construct Acharya Ji’s grand memorial at this site and extended his heartfelt congratulations to all involved.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai remarked that although Acharya Vidyasagar Ji is no longer physically present, his teachings will continue to guide generations like a beacon of light, inspiring righteous living. He highlighted Acharya Ji’s unwavering dedication to protecting Dharma and strengthening the nation, walking miles barefoot, and practicing unparalleled self-discipline. Millions have drawn inspiration from his life. He was a national saint, deeply committed to the ideals of Swadeshi (self-reliance), consistently emphasizing the importance of staying rooted in our cultural heritage.
Chief Minister Shri Sai paid homage to Pujya Samta Sagar Ji Maharaj and all the Jain monks who had gathered from across the country, expressing his wish that their blessings continue to grace Chhattisgarh.
The event witnessed the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, Finance Minister Shri O.P. Choudhary, Member of Parliament Shri Santosh Pandey, Dongargarh MLA Smt. Harshita Swami Baghel, Jain community leader Shri Ashok Patni, Festival Committee President Shri Vinod Barjatya, Shrikant Prabhat Jain, Vinod Jain, Manish Jain, and several other distinguished representatives and members of society.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah attends First Samadhi Smriti Mahotsav of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj and Shri 1008 Siddhachakra Vidhan Vishva Shanti Mahayagya in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh
Raipur : Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah addressed the first Samadhi Smriti Mahotsav of Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj at Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. Shri Shah also participated in Shri 1008 Siddhachakra Vidhan Vishwa Shanti Mahayagya. During the event, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah released a commemorative coin of ₹100, a special postal envelope of ₹5, 108 footprints and portrait of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji and laid the foundation stone of the proposed Samadhi Smarak 'Vidyayatan'. Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma and Pujya Muni Shri Samta Sagar Ji Maharaj were present on the occasion, among other dignitaries.
In his address, Shri Amit Shah said that Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj was not just a saint or a ‘Jainacharya’, but a visionary who ushered in a new ideology and a new era. He said that Acharya Guruvar Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj, who was born in Karnataka, propagated Indian culture, Indian languages, Indian identity and the country as a whole like a ‘Jyotirdhar’ through his deeds. Shri Shah said that it is very rare for a religious saint to have worked towards propagation of the national identity along with interpretation of the religion across the world. Shri Amit Shah said, Acharya Vidyasagar Ji's life was dedicated to religion, culture and to the nation.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that he had the privileged of meeting Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji many times. He said that Acharya Ji always emphasized on promotion and preservation of Indian languages, spread of India's glory and identity globally, and that our nation should be preferably called ‘Bharat’ instead of ‘India’.
Shri Amit Shah said that by writing ‘Prime Minister of Bharat’ on the invitation card of the G-20 Summit, Modi ji the ideas of Vidyasagar Ji into action. He said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi rendered Acharya Ji's vision without any political motive and followed his message in practice.
Union Home Minister said that Acharya Ji did not leave the path of austerity till the last breath of his life. Shri Shah said that Acharya Ji showed the path of salvation not only to Jain follower but also to the non-Jain followers with his spiritual energy.
Shri Amit Shah said that there are many people, who say that every moment of life should be dedicated to religion, nation and society, but people who live their whole life like this are rarely seen and Acharya Ji's life was a true embodiment of this dedication. He said Acharya Ji interpreted the principle of "Ahimsa Paramo Dharma" in a way that was time-appropriate and established it globally. He also mentioned that Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj ensured that his disciples lived their lives in accordance with the principles of Jainism.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is propagating the principles of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and 'Ahimsa Parmo Dharma'. He said he was grateful to PM Modi for giving approval to the commemorative coin and the special envelope. He said that this tribute to Acharya Ji is a tribute to the saint tradition. He said that Acharya Ji's proposed Samadhi Smarak 'Vidyayatan' will remain a place of propagation of Acharya Ji's principles, messages and teachings for ages. Shri Shah said that the name of the samadhi of the saint who spent his entire life in the worship of ‘Vidya’ (knowledge) cannot be anything other than 'Vidyayatan'.
Shri Amit Shah said that, on the occasion, foundation stone of a girl’s school where education is imparted free of cost, has also been laid in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh. He mentioned that this school would incorporate both skill development and employment opportunities, with teaching conducted in the mother tongue. He also stated that the inauguration of Acharya Ji's 108 footprints took place, which would serve as a symbol of a life dedicated to renunciation, penance, and discipline.
Union Home Minister said that India's saint tradition is very rich. He said that whenever the nation needed a particular role to be fulfilled, saints rose to the occasion. He said that saints created knowledge, tied the country in the thread of unity and before independence, the saints kept the flame of national consciousness burning through ‘Bhakti’. He said that when the governance and the country started getting influenced by Western ideas after independence, Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj was the only Acharya who remained firmly connected to Bharat, Indian identity, and Indian culture.
Shri Amit Shah said that Jain saints have made their significant contribution in uniting the entire country. He said that from Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh to Shravanabelagola in Karnataka, from Rajgir in Bihar to Girnar in Gujarat, he walked everywhere and spread his message. He said that Acharya Ji taught us that our identity is rooted in our culture.
Union Home Minister said that Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj wrote a Hindi epic called 'Mookmati', on which many people have done research and written essays. Following Acharya Ji's message of preservation and promotion of all Indian languages, his followers have translated 'Mookamati' into many languages. He said that religion, philosophy, ethics and spirituality have been explained in great depth in 'Mookamati' and it also has a description of the transience of the body and a message of love for the nation.
Shri Amit Shah said that Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj believed that the linguistic diversity of our country is our true strength. He said that a country with many languages, scripts and dialects and different types of grammars and ballads is considered to be culturally rich.
Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah said that there existed a very cordial relation between Modi ji and Acharya ji. He said that Acharya Ji's teachings, works, writings and discourses are not only the heritage of Jain followers but of the entire country.
Senior Officials from the Ministry of Defence visit Dantewada to view Development Initiatives : Praise for Women's Self-Reliance, Youth Employment, and Rehabilitation Efforts for Naxal Affected Families
Raipur : As part of Study Tour 2025 organized by the National Defence College, Ministry of Defence, New Delhi, a delegation of 18 senior officials visited Dantewada to review various social and economic upliftment initiatives undertaken in the region. The delegation commended the efforts of the District Administration and Police Department in fostering development and ensuring community welfare.
Encouraging Women’s Empowerment and Economic Growth
The officials first visited the Dannex Factory in Geedam, where they were briefed about the initiative launched by the District Administration to promote women's self-reliance. The Nava Dantewada Garment Factory, under the Dannex brand, has expanded to four manufacturing units, collectively aiming to provide employment to approximately 1,200 families. During their visit, the officials interacted with working women, encouraging and appreciating their dedication.
Rehabilitation Efforts for Naxal-Affected Families
The delegation then proceeded to the Naxal-Affected Rehabilitation Center in Karli, where they were apprised of the "Lone Varratu" (Homecoming) campaign. Under this initiative, surrendered Naxal cadres and families affected by Naxalite violence are provided with safe housing and employment opportunities. Both central and state government schemes are actively facilitating their integration into mainstream society.
Educational Transformation in Dantewada
The officials also visited Education City, Jawanga, where they engaged with students at Saksham-2, a residential school for children with special needs. The delegation was briefed about the Annie Device, a smart learning tool that assists visually impaired students in learning and reading Braille.
Furthermore, the delegation observed the Equestrian Training Center, where students are trained in horse riding skills. During the visit, students also presented a cultural performance, which was warmly appreciated by the officials.
Free Software Engineering Training for Underprivileged Students
The delegation also reviewed the Nav Gurukul Initiative, which provides free software engineering training to students. They were informed that the 18-month program prepares students for competitive exams like PET, PMT, IIT-JEE, and also includes specialized English communication and leadership training sessions.
The visiting officials praised the district’s holistic efforts in education, employment, women's empowerment, and rehabilitation of Naxal-affected individuals, calling Dantewada’s development model an inspiration for other regions.
The visit was attended by DIG Mr. Kamlochan Kashyap, Collector Shri Mayank Chaturvedi, Zila Panchayat CEO Shri Jayant Nahta and other senior officials.
Chhattisgarh : A Model of Cultural Resilience and Development, impresses National Defence College Delegation,Chhattisgarh’s Beauty is beyond the Landscape; It is in Its People, Culture, and Progress*– CM Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur : Chhattisgarh is emerging as a model of socio-economic transformation, sustainable governance, and cultural preservation. This was the sentiment echoed by a delegation of 18 senior military and civil service officers from the National Defence College (NDC), who met Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai following an extensive tour of the state. Their visit provided them with first-hand insights into Chhattisgarh’s administrative frameworks, strategic infrastructure, and policy innovations.
Welcoming the officers, CM Sai underscored Chhattisgarh’s journey from a historically rich state to a dynamic hub of development. He noted, “Chhattisgarh is not just a region; it is an experience. With 44% of our land covered in forests, we are not only guardians of biodiversity but also of a tribal heritage that embodies resilience and wisdom. Your visit here is not just about witnessing landscapes but about understanding a civilization that thrives on both tradition and transformation.”
Chhattisgarh’s Strategic Growth: A Balance of Security and Development
The Chief Minister elaborated on the state’s multi-dimensional approach to tackling security challenges while fostering inclusive growth. He stated, “Our efforts against Naxalism extend beyond military action. By strengthening education, expanding infrastructure, and boosting economic participation, we have rewritten the narrative of once-conflict-ridden regions. Urbanization and industrialization are progressing in tandem with rural development, ensuring that no community is left behind. Chhattisgarh is not just transforming; it is setting an example.”
The NDC delegation, comprising high-ranking officers from India and abroad, visited key institutions such as IIM Raipur, the Integrated Command Control Center, Greenfield City, and Smart City projects. They engaged in discussions with the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, analyzing Chhattisgarh’s governance strategies in law enforcement, counter-insurgency, and economic resilience.
A Tour of Heritage, Innovation, and Strategic Development
Beyond its policy frameworks, Chhattisgarh’s cultural depth and infrastructural advancements left a strong impression on the delegation. Their itinerary included Sirpur’s archaeological marvels, the Dantewada's Education City, Kanker’s Wood Art Center, the Jungle Warfare College, Kondagaon’s Tatamari and Shilpgram, Badal Academy, and the spectacular Chitrakote Waterfall. These visits illustrated how Chhattisgarh has seamlessly integrated heritage preservation with modernization.
Chhattisgarh’s Policy Framework Gains Global Recognition
The delegation, led by Admiral Sandeep Singh Sandhu, praised the state’s innovative governance model. He explained that the National Defence College’s year-long strategic program is designed to equip military and civil service officers with a deep understanding of regional and national policy mechanisms. This year’s cohort consists of 124 officers, including 13 from India and 5 from various international defence forces, who visited Chhattisgarh to explore its unique administrative and developmental approaches.
The meeting was attended by Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary Shri Subodh Singh, Additional Director General of Police Shri Vivekanand Sinha, Chief Minister’s Secretary Shri Rahul Bhagat, Shri P. Dayanand, and Dr. Basavaraju S.
Among the prominent NDC officials present were Brigadier Amitoz Singh, Shri Sandip Kumar Mishra, Commodore Kartik Murthy, Brigadier Anirudh Singh Kanwar, Air Commodore Shekhar Yadav, Brigadier Gurpreet Singh Mann, Brigadier Rajneesh Mohan, and Captain M. V. Orpe. The delegation also included officers from Sri Lanka, Morocco, Nigeria, Nepal, and the UAE.
POLL PREDICTS EXIT AAP, FAVOURS IN BJP
Delhi : BJP is all set to form a The government in Delhi after a long gap of 27 years, most pollsters have predicted as the Exit Polls came in after voting ended on Wednesday while the Congress was projected to make no significant gains. Two exit polls, however, predicted a victory for the Aam Admi Party (AAP), and as many showed a close contest between them, with an edge for the BJP. The predictions spell a big setback for Arvind Kejriwal, who stepped down as the Chief Minister last year amid corruption charges, and the AAP, which was eyeing a third term on the back of consecutive near-sweeps in the 2015 and 2020 polls. Six of eight exit polls appear to think so, with just one tentatively giving the party half a chance. According to Matrize exit poll, the BJP led NDA may get 35-40 seats, while the AAP is projected to get 32 to 37 seats. The survey gave Congress 0-1 seats. The People's Pulse exit polls said the NDA was likely to get 51 to 60 seats, while the AAP may get just 10-19 seats. The Congress, it claimed, will not be able to open its account. There are 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly and the majority mark is set at 36.
The Election Commission will announce the official results after the counting of on February 8. Exit polls are projections made by election survey agencies based on interviews of voters as they come out after casting their votes
Centre prohibits officials using ChatGPT, DeepSeek
Raipur : Put simply, foundation models in generative AI are large, pre-trained models that form the base for a variety of AI applications. "Making modern technology accessible to everyone, that is the economic thinking of our PM... Ours is the most affordable compute facility, at this point of time," Vaishnaw
The government, under the IndiaAI Mission, had approved Rs 10,372 crore outlay to strengthen India's AI ecosystem a key pillar for that was enabling 10,000 GPUs for AI Compute Infrastructure. The 18,693 GPUs would offer large compute power considering that Deepseek was trained on 2,000 GPUs and ChatGPT version 4 on 25,000 GPUs.
On the applications under India AI mission, India's focus has been about utilising the power of Artificial Intelligence for solving population-scale problems, in areas such as healthcare, education, agri, logistics, weather forecasting and others.
