Conclusion of the three-day-long Mainpat Mahotsav

Balrampur , TNINS 

Culture Minister Mr. Amarjeet Bhagat has said that the magnificence of Mainpat Mahotsav is continuously increasing. This festival has been quite successful in terms of preserving the culture of Chhattisgarh. It has given a new identity to the Sarguja zone. The festival has provided folk and stage artists with a better platform. The Culture Minister Mr. Bhagat was addressing the closing ceremony of the three-day-long “Mainpat Mahotsav” held in Mainpat in the Sarguja district. 

Culture Minister Mr. Bhagat has said that the tourism services are being extended. The construction of an airstrip in this region will increase the number of facilities in the region. It will also increase the number of tourists. On the occasion, the President of the Food Commission Mr. Gurpreet Singh Babra, Police Inspector General Mr. Ramgopal Garg, Collector Mr. Kundan Kumar, Police Superintendent Mrs. Bhavna Gupta, and the CEO of District Panchayat Mr. Vishawadeep were also present. 

At the closing ceremony, Bollywood Singer and Punjabi Rockstar Daler Mehendi performed many popular songs. The audience expressed their joy and enthusiasm when the Punjabi Rockstar performed the patriotic song, “Rang de Basanti Chola”. The Chhattisgarhi singer Alka Parghaniya, Jasgeet singer Dilip Shadangi, Dushyant Harmukh, and Saurabh Vaibhav also gave a grand performance.

Declares operation of hookah bars "illegal"

Operation of hookah bars in Chhattisgarh is a non-bailable offense under amended law

Raipur TNINS 

Taking an effective step towards creating a healthier environment in the state and curbing the growing trend of drug addiction among youth, Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has declared the operation of hookah bars in the state as "illegal". The relevant law was amended with strict provisions to prevent the operation of hookah bars, which came into effect immediately.

The decision was made after complaints were received regarding the high consumption of hookah, flavored substances, tobacco, and other addictive substances served in hookah bars operated in various eateries, hotels, and restaurants, especially by the youth. This practice is harmful to their health and also promotes addiction. In response to this unlawful activity, the Chief Minister, Shri Bhupesh Baghel, directed strict action against the hookah bars and the closure of all hookah bars in the state. Acting swiftly on the instructions of the Chief Minister, the police department took strict action against all hookah bars, resulting in the closure of all hookah bars in the state.

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has directed that the aforementioned law should be amended, taking into account the current situation, to prevent the younger generation from becoming addicted to such substances. Accordingly, the Chhattisgarh Government has prepared a draft for necessary amendments to the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act, 2003. Competent permission was obtained after the amendment proposal of the Act was passed by the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly. The Act was published in the Chhattisgarh Gazette on February 10, 2023, by the Chhattisgarh Law and Legislative Affairs Department.

As per the amendments made under the Act, the operation of any kind of hookah bar has been prohibited in the state. In addition, smoking through hookah or 'shisha' in any communal hookah bar has also been banned. A provision has been made to seize any material or object used as a subject or means of use in the hookah bar if it is found to be in operation. Any person found operating a hookah bar will be charged with a non-bailable offense and can face imprisonment for up to 3 years, but not less than 1 year, and a fine of up to Rs 50,000, but not less than Rs 10,000. Similarly, any person found smoking through a hookah in a hookah bar will be fined up to Rs 5,000, but not less than Rs 1,000. These amendments made in the relevant Act have come into effect immediately.

The strict provisions of the law will establish effective control over the operation of hookah bars and the tendency to smoke hookah in groups in the hookah bars.

Cheques worth Rs 4.70 crore distributed to beneficiaries under various public welfare schemes

Rs 2 crores 84 lakh 20 thousand returned to 4 thousand 309 investors of the chit fund company

Distributed 'Certificates  for Regularisation of Chhattisgarh's Unauthorised Development' to eight beneficiaries

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel unveiled the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji at Chhatrapati Shivaji Park located in Budhasagar of district headquarters Rajnandgaon. On this occasion, Chief Minister Mr. Baghel distributed cheques worth Rs. 4 crores 70 lakh 47 thousand 988 to the beneficiaries of various public welfare schemes of the government. Besides, he also gave away the certificates of Chhattisgarh Anadhikrit Vikas Ka Niyamitikaran Adhiniyam (Regularization of Chhattisgarh's Unauthorised Development). Chief Minister also handed over the cheques worth Rs 2 crore 84 lakh 20 thousand 238 to the 4 thousand 309 investors who were duped by the chit fund company Sahara India.

In his address, Chief Minister Mr. Baghel stated that the statue was unveiled in commemoration of the historical figure Chhatrapati Veer Shivaji. In this program, funds are being distributed to the beneficiaries under several government initiatives. He stated that today, 4 thousand 309 investors of Sahara India  received the cheques of  total Rs 2 crore 84 lakhs 20 thousand 238. Chhattisgarh is the first state to take action against chit fund companies and refund the money to the investors. He stated that the government runs several public welfare initiatives for the general public. The speed of development in Chhattisgarh's villages, cities, and towns has accelerated. The government is always attempting to improve health, education, and sanitation. Farmers, businesses, and women are all benefiting from various programmes of the government, and Chhattisgarh is rapidly moving ahead on the path of development. Mr Baghel further said that through Bhent-Mulaqat campaign, he met social leaders, and sanctioned funds for several community buildings on their demand. The purpose of social/community buildings is to promote societal fraternity, communal harmony, overall development and upliftment. 

Meanwhile, Mayor Mrs. Hema Deshmukh said that the land of Rajnandgaon is the land of litterateurs. It is the land associated with litterateurs Dr. Padumlal Punna Lal Bakshi, Shri Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh, and Dr. Baldev Prasad Mishra. The statue of Shivaji in Sanskardhani Nagri is now a symbol of bravery. she said that despite the COVID crisis, the pace of development remained uninterrupted. she heartily thanked Chief Minister for sanctioning an amount of Rs. 4 crores for the beautification of the city, Rs. 2 crores for the Punni Mela and Rs. 15 crores for social buildings to 11 societies.

In the program, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Rural and Other Backward Classes Areas Development Authority Mr. Daleshwar Sahu, Khujji MLA Mrs. Chhanni Sahu, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Antyavasaya Cooperative Finance and Development Corporation Mr. Dhanesh Patila, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Youth Commission Mr. Jitendra Mudaliar, Chairman District Cooperative Central Bank Maryadit Mr. Nawaz Khan, President Rajgami Estate Trust Mr. Vivek Wasnik, President of Municipal Corporation Rajnandgaon Mr. Harinarayan Dheketa, along with many public representatives, officers and a large number of general public were present.

During the program, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel distributed cheques of financial aid to 972 beneficiaries under Mukhyamnatri Noni Shaktikaran Yojana, Safai Karamkar Prasuti Sahayata Yojana, contract workers, Gharelu Mahila Karmgar, Hamal Shramik Prasuti Sahayata Yojana and scholarship to their children, Asangathit Karmkar Prasuti Sahayata Yojana and Scholarship, Minimata Mahtari Jatan Yojana, Asangathit Karmkar Mrityu and Divyang Sahayata Yojana, Mukhyamantri Nirmaan Shramik Mrityu and Divyang Sahayata Yojana, Mukhyamantri  Shramik Siyan Sahayata Yojana, and scholarship under Safai Karmakar yojana, amounting to Rs 1 crore 86 lakh 27 thousand have.  As per the rule of  Chhattisgarh Anadhikrit Vikas Ka Niyamitikaran Niyam (Chhattisgarh Regularization of Unauthorized Development Rule), a total of 8 beneficiaries Mr. Mahesh Kumar Ninave, Mrs. Sushma Rokde, Mr. Manohar Talreja, Mrs. Deepali Talreja, Mr. Govind Soni, Mr. Surendra Kumar, Mr. Mayaram Gangber, Mr. Pankaj Kumar Chaudhary  received the cheques amounting  Rs 2 crore 84 lakh 20 thousand 238 to 4 thousand 309 investors of India.

Villagers took advantage of information camp cum development exhibition organized in Haat Bazaar

Balrampur TNINS

The Department of Public Relations organized an information camp cum development exhibition at the weekly Haat Bazaar organized in gram panchayat Korandha of Kusumi development block. A large number of villagers and public representatives visited the exhibition to view the photo exhibition and learn about the government's welfare schemes and plans. Free pamphlets and brochures related to important schemes of the government, 'Nyay Ka Naya Adhyay', 'Janman', and 'Sambal' were also distributed in the camp. The schemes were presented in a very simple and easy-to-understand language, and everyone appreciated the easy access to information.

The popularity of the state government's farmer-friendly schemes has increased the interest of people in agriculture. Chintamani Minj of village Khajuri, Mangaru Ram of village Devari, and Patlu Ram of village Hanspur who came to the weekly Haat Bazaar expressed their views on the exhibition and said that the farmer-friendly schemes of the state government have made agriculture more appealing to people. The economic condition of farmers has been strengthened by getting fair prices for their produce. Other states are also adopting the farmer-friendly schemes of the Chhattisgarh government.

Along with this, they said told that this exhibition is a medium of raising awareness among the people regarding government schemes. Information related to various important schemes including Godhan Nyaya, Yojana, Suraji Gaon Yojana, Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana, Chhattisgarh Millet Mission, procurement of Minor Forest Produce, Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhoomiheen Krishi Mazdoor Nyay Yojana, Swami Atmanand Govt. English Medium School, Rajiv Yuva Mitan Club, Bijli Bill Half Yojana, and Shri Dhanwantri Generic Medical Store Yojana have been displayed here so that the common citizen can take advantage of them.

Relief for more than 900 families in Naxal-affected areas through withdrawal of cases

Chhattisgarh Police's sensitive approach encourages 555 Naxalite surrenders last year

Chhattisgarh DGP writes to NIA Director General seeking probe into killing of three public representatives in Bastar

Raipur TNINS

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel said that the government is committed to providing a fear-free and law-abiding governance system in Chhattisgarh. He has praised the sensitive attitude of the police in Naxal-affected areas and their efforts to encourage Naxal surrenders, while also cracking down on crime. He has said that the effective strategy of development, trust, and security has resulted in a significant reduction of the Naxal menace in the state.

Home Minister Shri Tamradhwaj Sahu said that in the last four years, continuous efforts have been made to curb Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. The state government is focussing on the modernization of the police force, providing them with modern weapons, security equipment, necessary training, and vehicles to counter Maoists. 

A total of 555 Naxalites surrendered in Chhattisgarh in the last year as a result of the government's efforts for public welfare and the sensitive behavior of the Chhattisgarh police, which is a significant success. During the same period, as many as 46 Naxalites also died in police encounters. In the last four years, cases of more than 900 families in insurgency-hit areas have been withdrawn, providing relief to innocent people. This was made possible through the government's visionary approach to the welfare of the tribals and the sensitive handling by the police. 

It is worth mentioning that the Chhattisgarh Director General of Police Shri Ashok Juneja has written a letter to the Director General of the NIA, seeking an investigation into the killing of three public representatives in Bastar. The Naxalism in Chhattisgarh is continuously shrinking with a significant reduction in their activity due to the efforts Central Security Force and the State Police. As a result, Naxalites, in a fit of rage, are now targeting public representatives and common citizens.

Chief Minister participated in the annual festival and medal distribution program of Digvijay Autonomous Government Post Graduate College

Announced a grant of Rs. 50 lakh for construction of compound in college, Rs 10 lakh for leveling of playground

Employment-oriented programs are being run to provide employment to the youth 

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel has said that like the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Industrial Parks established in rural areas, 'Urban Rural Industrial Park' will be established to provide employment to the youth in urban areas as well. Many programs are being run in the state to provide employment opportunities to the youth of the state. Developed land, electricity, water and other necessary infrastructure is being provided to the youth to start their own small industries in the Rural Industrial Park established in the rural areas.

Chief Minister Mr. Baghel was addressing the annual festival and medal distribution program of Government Digvijay Autonomous Post Graduate College of Rajnandgaon today. On this occasion, while wishing the students of the college for their bright future, the Chief Minister said that doors of many possibilities  open for students after college. He further said that Through the annual festival program, the youth gets a good opportunity to prove their talent and move towards progress.

The Chief Minister said that Rajnandgaon district is famous in the entire state in the field of art and literature. He said that legendary litterateurs like Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh, Padumlal Punnalal Bakshi, Dr. Baldev Prasad Mishra have brought laurels to Rajnandgaon district. On this occasion, the Chief Minister said that fees for competitive exams have been waived off for the youth. Along with this, Swami Atmanand English Medium School has been established to provide free of cost quality education in English medium to the students of weaker sections. On this occasion, the Chief Minister honored the meritorious students of the college for the session 2022 and the winners of various competitions were felicitated by distributing medals. On the demand of the students of the college, the Chief Minister announced Rs 50 lakh for the construction of compound in the college and Rs 10 lakh for the leveling of the playground. Along with this, he also announced to make provision in the budget for parking and other infrastructure in the coming time.

On this occasion, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Rural and Other Backward Classes Areas Development Authority Mr. Daleshwar Sahu, MLA from Khujji Mrs. Chhanni Sahu, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Antavasyayi Sahkari Vitt vikas Nigam Mr. Dhanesh Patila, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Youth Commission Mr. Jitendra Mudaliar, Chairman District Cooperative Central Bank Maryadit Mr. Nawaz Khan, Chairman Rajgami Sampada Nyas Mr. Vivek Wasnik along with many public representatives, officers and a large number of citizens were present.

On the lines of RIPA, Urban Cottage and Service Industries Park to be opened in all municipal corporations and municipalities - Chief Minister

Announcement made to open BPO equipped with software and hardware facility in Raipur and Bhilai

World class Central Library cum reading zone will be built in Bhilai at a cost of 20 crores

CCTV cameras will be installed in market areas of cities for security

Raipur TNINS 

In a bid to ensure holistic development of urban bodies of the state, today Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel gave a significant gift of development works worth one thousand crore rupees to the citizens of the state. Participating in the Gaurav Samagam-2023 of the Urban Administration and Development Department, the Chief Minister said that “citizens are getting numerous facilities while sitting at home and civic facilities have also increased in urban bodies”. He further said that “our government has improved the process of making ration cards. Today everyone's ration card is made easily. Earlier it used to be very difficult to get building permission but now it has also been simplified. Under the Mukhyamantri Mitan Yojana, 15 types of services are being provided at home.”

Making a big announcement, the Chief Minister said that BPOs equipped with software and hardware facilities will be opened in Raipur and Bhilai to provide employment for youth. To provide better education for students, a world-class Central Library cum Reading Zone will be made in Bhilai at a cost of 20 crores. The Chief Minister also announced the opening of Urban Cottage and Service Industries Park in all Municipal Corporations and Municipalities on the lines of RIPA. In order to increase the health facilities of the citizens, he also announced to make smart health kiosks in the municipal corporations, in which BP, sugar, and blood tests will be available free of cost. Announcing the facilities of  CCTV, modern toilets and development arrangements in the market areas of the cities, the Chief Minister said that on the demand of public representatives, the ‘chungi kar’ compensation amount of urban bodies would be increased from Rs.26 to Rs.35.

Significant Announcements made by Mr. Baghel:

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel announced to grant an amount of about Rs. 1 thousand crores to all the urban bodies for development works. He granted 100 crores to Municipal Corporation Raipur, 50 crores to Bilaspur Municipal Corporation, 25 crores to Durg Municipal Corporation, 20 crores each to Bhilai-Charoda, Ambikapur, Jagdalpur, 15 crores each to Risali, Rajnandgaon, Raigarh and Korba, Birgaon, he also announced to grant an amount of 10 crores each to Dhamtari and Chirmiri. Along with this, he also announced to give 5-5 crores to all the municipalities and 3-3 crores to all the Nagar Panchayats.

The Chief Minister also announced urban women's livelihood centers in Raipur, Bhilai and Bilaspur, drainage system for the waterlogged areas of Raipur city, simplification of land development rules, upgradation of Mahatma Gandhi Stadium in Ambikapur, road construction and beautification.

Addressing the Gaurav Samagam function, Urban Administration and Development Minister Mr. Shivkumar Dahriya said that in the last 4 years, with an improved system, efficient work has been done in the field of basic amenities of road, water, electricity, and cleanliness in the urban body area. Constant upgradation is being made in the parameters of development in civic areas. He said that under the guidance of the Honorable Chief Minister, better holistic development work is being done in all areas of the urban bodies. Parliamentary Secretary of Urban Administration and Development Department Mr. Rekhchandra Jain, Mayor of Raipur Mr. Aijaz Dhebar, Special Secretary Dr. Ayyaz Tamboli, Director Mr. R. Ekka, CEO of SUDA Mr. Saumil Ranjan Choubey, mayors, presidents and other public representatives of all bodies were present in the program..

Urban bodies awarded for excellent work:

 - In the Gaurav Samagam ceremony, the urban bodies were awarded for the excellent implementation of various departmental schemes. Municipal Corporation Birgaon was awarded for the most active body, Municipal Corporation Bhilai Charoda for comprehensive coverage and Municipal Corporation Ambikapur for the implementation of services related to the urban body, for excellent performance in Mukhyamantri Mitan Yojana. Municipal Corporation Dhamtari, Municipal Council Dallirajhara and Nagar Panchayat Amdi were awarded for their excellent performance in Mukhyamantri slum swasth Scheme. Nagar Palika Nigam Raigarh, Nagar Palika Parishad Gariaband and Nagar Panchayat Gurr were awarded for commendable performance in Shri Dhanwantri Generic Medical Stores Scheme. Nagar Palika Nigam Raipur, Nagar Palika Parishad Deepka and Nagar Panchayat Kharora were awarded for maximum revenue collection. Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel released a coffee table booklet based on departmental achievements of last 4 years on the occasion of Gaurav Samagam function. On this occasion, he also released a video based on departmental achievements, He further released Mor Patrika Mor Samman guide under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the guide for aspirational toilet design under Swachh Bharat Mission. Beneficiaries who were selected in the competition organized by the  Government of India on the theme of Khushiyon Ka Aashiana under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana were also awarded.

Students expressed their satisfaction with the doctor's treatment

Raipur TNINS 

The state government has launched the 'Mukhyamantri Shehri Slum Swasthya Yojana' in 2019 to make health facilities even more convenient and accessible in urban areas. Now, the people residing in urban slums no longer have to visit hospitals for the treatment of minor ailments. Previously, sick individuals had to go to a hospital for treatment and wait in long lines for their turn. Keeping in view these difficulties, Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel, implemented this scheme for the public. The health department's mobile medical unit carries out 40 types of tests, including blood and other samples, while free medicine is also distributed to patients after the examination.

On Monday, February 13, the dedicated MMU reached the government girls' high school for the hearing-impaired near the district court, where 29 hearing and speech-impaired students received medical treatment and free medicines as per their requirements. During the treatment, students including Nandini Sahu of class 8th, Prachi Maurya, Urvashi, and Sanjana Mehr of class 6th pointed out through sign language that they received treatment for headache, body pain, cold, cough, body pain, and common flu. Similarly, Kajal Som and Bhoomika Sahu of class 10th also expressed their satisfaction after receiving treatment from the doctor.

The teacher said that the dedicated MMU comes here regularly every 15 days and the medical staff conducts health checkups and collects samples for necessary tests such as blood, mucus, urine, etc. and distributes free medicines on the spot after registering the students.

Institution director, Smt. Uma Devangan, said that there are 80 students enrolled in their residential school, and 29 students received treatment for common ailments on Monday. She added that this scheme has proved to be a boon for the girls. Earlier, these students had to be taken to the district hospital four kilometers away for treatment, which took the whole day for them to commute and receive treatment, but now, with the commencement of MMU services, the children are receiving services at the campus only.

New system will reduce involvement of brokers and extra charges

Buyers of second-hand vehicles in the state will be relieved from the hassle of RTO office visits

Raipur TNINS 

In Chhattisgarh, there is no longer a need to go to an RTO office to buy or sell second-hand vehicles. The Transport Department has started a new process called Aadhaar authentication, under which buyers and sellers can go to their nearest transport service center and easily transfer vehicle ownership. The biggest advantage of this system is that it will reduce the involvement of brokers in the process. Official said that the system is now ready and people will get benefitted directly from it. An additional fee of Rs 100 will have to be paid to the transport service center.

Transport Commissioner Shri Dipanshu Kabra said that the Transport Department has launched a new system called "Aadhaar Authentication" from Monday. With the commencement of this system, people buying and selling second-hand vehicles will now be able to go to nearby transport service centers and easily transfer vehicle ownership.

According to the RTO data, more than two lakh second-hand vehicles are bought and sold in the state every year, and transferring their registration certificates can be a complicated process. Until the ownership of the vehicle is transferred in the name of the buyer, they are not considered the legal owner of the vehicle. Similarly, if a used vehicle is sold and an accident or crime occurs involving that vehicle, action is taken against the person registered in the RC book. Therefore, it is necessary to transfer the registration of a used car to the buyer's name, which requires filling out an online form and visiting the RTO office in person along with the vehicle for verification.

All you need to know about the new system

Nearly 500 service centers have been opened by the transport department across the state, including approximately 50 centers in the Raipur district. Currently, online forms are being filled out for transportation-related tasks here. The department is now introducing Aadhaar authentication at these service centers. The buyer/seller will need to provide their Aadhaar number at the service center, where an employee will check the vehicle number and owner's name in the department's software. Following this, the buyer/seller's fingerprint will be taken using an Aadhaar authentication device. Officials said that this process is being simplified so that vehicle owners do not have to make multiple visits to the office.

Revised Fees

Currently, different charges apply for transferring vehicle ownership in different categories at government offices, with that of two-wheelers at Rs 400, light motor vehicles at Rs 550, and three-wheelers at Rs 750. However, people often end up paying extra charges to agents. Now, the same work can be done at service centers with an additional charge of Rs 100, which will save both time and money for people.

Villagers heap praise on Godhan Nyay Yojana and Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana

Balrampur TNINS 

Department of Public Relations is organizing information camps cum development exhibitions in the district's Haat Bazaars to reach out to the public educating them about the welfare schemes of the state government. In this line, an information camp was organized in the village Trishuli of Ramchandrapur development block.

The move aims to reach the maximum number of possible people ensuring that they get the benefit of ambitious welfare schemes. Important schemes of the state government including Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana, Godhan Nyaya Yojana, Suraji Gaon Yojana, Chhattisgarh Millet Mission, Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhoomiheen Krishi Mazdoor Nyay Yojana, Chhattisgarh Model, Bijli Bill Half Yojana, Krishna Kunj, Shri Dhanwantri Generic Medical Store Yojana, Rajiv Yuva Mitan Club, Swami Atmanand Hindi, and English medium schools were displayed through photographs in the camp.

Shri Jokhan Yadav of Trishuli village praised the exhibition, saying that through this exhibition, the public is receiving extensive information about government schemes. Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has been formulating good plans for the past four years, benefiting people from all sections. The villagers spoke highly of the government's Suraji Gaon Yojana describing it as beneficial for rural areas, while the Godhan Nyay Yojana and Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana were described as transformative for farmers. The villagers who came to see the photo exhibition praised the ambitious government plans and Swami Atmanand English Medium Schools. The Department of Public Relations distributed free pamphlets and brochures related to important schemes of the government, 'Nyay Ka Chhattisgarh Model' booklet, and monthly magazine 'Janman' published by the department.

Jashpur's scenic beauty and pleasant weather favourable for tourism

Chief Minister participates in Youth Festival 2023 organized at village Mayali

The Chief Minister handed over development works worth Rs 230.70 crore to Jashpur district

Various developmental works are being done in the field of health, education, tourism, employment

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel today participated in the Youth Festival program 2023 organized at village Mayali of Kunkuri development block of Jashpur district. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel said that Jashpur is very well known for its scenic beauty. The weather here is very pleasant and the Mayali festival here adds to the charm of the region. Moreover,tourism is being promoted in view of the immense tourism potential in Jashpur district. Now people from all over the country and abroad are also getting attracted to witness Jashpur's natural beauty.

  On this occasion, the Chief Minister gifted several development works worth Rs 230 crore 70 lakh to the residents of the district. Chief Minister Mr. Baghel laid the foundation stone of 45 works worth Rs 176.74 crore and inaugurated 45 developmental works worth Rs 53.96 crore. He also distributed leases, checks and assistive materials to the beneficiaries under beneficiary oriented schemes.

Assembly Speaker Dr. Charandas Mahant, Home and Public Works Minister Mr. Tamradhwaj Sahu, Public Health Minister Mr. T.S. Singhdeo, School Education Minister Dr. Premsai Singh Tekam, Parliamentary Secretary and Kunkuri MLA Mr. UD Minj, Jashpur MLA Mr. Vinay Bhagat, Raigarh MLA Mr. Prakash Nayak were also present on this ocassion. 

The Chief Minister further said that information about the schemes of the Chhattisgarh government is also being given through stalls at the festival site. We are definitely moving in a new direction of holistic development. Paddy is being procured on loan waiver and support price to make the farmers financially self-reliant. He also said that common people and farmers are being benefited by the Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana, Godhan Nyay Yojana, Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Bhoomihin Krishi Mazdoor Nyay Yojana and purchase and value addition of minor forest produce. Efficient work is also being done in the field of employment generation. He also informed that 107 lakh 53 thousand metric tonnes of paddy has been procured this year and an amount of 22 thousand crores has been paid directly into the account of the farmers. Under the Godhan Nyaya Yojana, more than 100 lakh quintals of cow dung has been purchased and an amount of more than Rs 200 crore has been given to the vendors.

Chief Minister Mr. Baghel said that along with increasing the income of laborers and providing employment, constant work is also being done in the field of education, health and road construction. Swami Atmanand Government Excellent English Medium School is improving the future of all the children by providing them good education..

Mr. Baghel said that old sports traditions are also being revived and promoted in Chhattisgarh. Earlier women used to play gaedi, fugdi and other games in their maternal homes, now in Chhattisgarhia Olympics, they have displayed their talent in traditional games as well because of which traditional Chhattisgarhian sports are being promoted. He said that our government has also declared holidays on Hareli, Teeja, Pora and Tribal Day. Along with this, the National Tribal Dance Festival is being celebrated to promote the folk culture, tradition and folk dances of Chhattisgarh. Now people have started knowing the cultural traditions of Chhattisgarh even in the country and abroad. 

Addressing the program, Kunkuri MLA Mr. UD Minj said that the Chhattisgarh government is doing various developmental works for the benefit of all sections of the village, be it the poor farmers, laborers and women. He also informed the Chief Minister in detail about the development work being done in the tourism sector in Jashpur district.

Chief Minister unveiled the statue of State's first Finance Minister 'Koriya Kumar' Dr. Ramchandra Singhdev

Rich in multifaceted personality, Koriya Kumar devoted his entire life to the development of Chhattisgarh

Chief Minister shared political and personal memories on the occasion of Dr. Singhdev's birth anniversary, paid floral tribute

Chief Minister performed Bhumi Pujan of development works worth Rs 10.99 crore

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel today unveiled the statue of state's first Finance Minister, Late Dr. Ramchandra Singhdev, popularly known as 'Koriya Kumar', at Ghadi Chowk, Baikunthpur, the district headquarters of Koriya, on the occasion of his birth anniversary. Chief Minister paid tribute to late Dr Ramchandra Singhdev by garlanding his statue.

Remembering late Dr. Ramchandra Singhdev, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel said that his entire life was dedicated to Chhattisgarh. Development and betterment of Chhattisgarh and Koriya were always the core of his vision, and he worked sincerely to realize this vision. He was a multifaceted personality. Mr. Baghel said that Koriya Kumar Dr. Singhdev may have been born in a royal family, but he lived the life of a fakir. His life was very simple. He was frugal throughout his life. Dr. Ramchandra Singhdev was easygoing, simple, sociable, and had cheerful personality. Chief Minister said that the way the tribals take from nature only as per their requirement and do not store it, in the same way Koriya Kumar lived his life with simplicity. Recalling his tenure as PHE Minister, Chief Minister said that back then, Dr. Singhdev had personally visited the area to study water recharging work there. His expertise was in water management and irrigation projects. Mr. Baghel told that Dr. Singhdev was part of the family. 

          Chief Minister said that when he became an MLA and a minister in 1967, half of the portfolios were with him. He also rendered remarkable services as the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. When Chhattisgarh was formed, he became the first finance minister of the state. His thoughts and ideas are the foundation of the progressive economy of Chhattisgarh today. Today, Chhattisgarh is moving fast on the foundation of the economy of Chhattisgarh laid by him as the Finance Minister. Chief Minister told that Dr. Singhdev would often ask him to call him uncle instead of Kumar Saheb. The absence of such a simple-minded and sociable person is definitely an irreparable loss for all of us.

           Chief Minister Mr. Baghel also mentioned the contribution of Koriya Kumar's father late Mr. Ramanuja Pratap Singhdeo in the making of labour law and mid-day meal scheme, which is being implemented in the entire country today. He said that the love and affection of Koriya Kumar was always with him. Today, on this occasion, I pay my respects to that great personality who devoted his entire life to the development of the state, said Mr. Baghel.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Mr. Baghel performed Bhumi Pujan of various development works costing about Rs. 10.99 crore for the district, which includes works worth Rs. 7.63 crore for Municipal Council Baikunthpur, works of Rs. 2.86 crore for Municipal Council Shivpur-Charcha and various other development works of Rs. 50 lakh including the community hall of Sarva Adivasi Samaj in Baikunthpur* 

           On this occasion, Vidhansabha Speaker Dr. Charandas Mahant, Minister in-charge of Home, Public Works and District Mr. Tamradhwaj Sahu, Health Minister Mr. T.S. Singhdev, School Education Minister Dr. Premsai Singh Tekam, Parliamentary Secretary and Baikunthpur MLA Mrs. Ambika Singhdev, Vice President of Surguja Development Authority and Bharatpur-Sonhat MLA Mr. Gulab Kamro and Director, CGMSC and Manendragarh MLA Dr. Vinay Jaiswal including local public representatives, eminent citizens and elders. Common people were present in large numbers.

Skilled politician, expert in water management and keen interest in photography were important aspects of Dr. Singhdeo's identity-

 Late Dr. Ramchandra Singhdev, popularly known as "Koriya Kumar", was born on February 13, 1930 in Baikunthpur, the district headquarters. From 1967 to 2000, Dr. Singhdev was a member of the Legislative Assembly, Minister of Irrigation and Deputy Chairman of the State Planning Board in undivided Madhya Pradesh. After Chhattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh, he became the first Finance Minister of Chhattisgarh. He did his schooling at Rajkumar College, Raipur and higher education at Allahabad University, from where he obtained MSc in Chemistry and PhD in Sociology. His interest was in photography, book writing. He had fundamental thoughts on advanced forms of irrigation, planning, economics, he always had an active participation in various national seminars organized on issues of public interest. He was also honored for efficient water management by an international organization based in Germany.

So far, approximately 27,000 quintals worth Rs 8.21 crore have been purchased

Procurement by all primary forest-produce cooperative groups in the state

Raipur, TNINS 

In line with the intention of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel to promote the crops of Kodo, Kutki and Ragi in Chhattisgarh, these crops are being procured at support price. So far, the state has bought 26 thousand 808 quintals of Kodo, Kutki, and Ragi valued at Rs 8 crore 21 lakh under the leadership of Forest Minister Mr. Mohammad Akbar.

According to the State Minor Forest Produce Association, Kodo is being purchased at a rate of Rs.30 per kg, Kutki at a rate of Rs.31, and Ragi at a rate of Rs.35.78 per kg. So far, 22 thousand 855 quintals of Kodo, 01 thousand 182 quintals of Kutki, and 02 thousand 772 quintals of Ragi have been purchased. Kodo, Kutki, and Ragi will be purchased at the support price until February 15, 2023.

It is noteworthy that Kodo, Kutki, and Ragi are being procured by all the Primary Forest Produce Cooperative Societies of the State Minor Forest Produce Federation in the entire state. Principal Secretary Forest Mr. Manoj Kumar Pingua said that by expanding its scope in the interest of farmers, these crops are now being procured at the support price through all the primary forest produce cooperative societies of the State Minor Forest Produce Association in the entire state.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief of Forest Force Mr. Sanjay Shukla told that by identifying such areas of the state, which are located outside the jurisdiction of the Primary Minor Forest Produce Committee or District Union, these villages and areas have been bought under the jurisdiction of the nearest Primary Minor Forest Produce Committee and District Union. As a result, Kodo, Kutki, and Ragi can be purchased in such areas at the support price and the collectors of these crops will get the benefit of the support price.

Complaints of illegal liquor sales should be treated seriously.

Review of  government schemes.

Raipur, TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel reviewed the progress of government schemes by holding a meeting of officials at Abhanpur circuit house yesterday after Bhent-mulaqat with  the general public in Tamasivni and Khorpa villages under Abhanpur assembly constituency of Raipur district.  He inquired about various schemes including Godhan Nyay Yojana, RIPA, Narva Yojana.  The Chief Minister said that instructions were given to the officers to connect rural women with livelihood-oriented activities and to bring progress in the works of Narva.  Took information about ground water level from the Public Health Engineering Department and gave instructions to continue the Narva program.

Prior to this, Chief Minister directed Revenue Department officials to correct the settlement error as well as to carry out caste certificate and other revenue work on a regular basis. While for  the Suposhan Abhiyan he instructed for  going to the homes of malnourished children to provide nutritional information, getting pregnant women checked for anaemia, arranging treatment for anaemia, and providing free treatment and other facilities to an increasing number of people in the Haat Bazar Clinic Yojana.He  also reviewed the condition of roads and progress of  Jal Jeevan Mission from the PHE department.  Expressed serious displeasure on the complaint of illegal liquor and over rate.  Similarly, asked to take strict action on the complaint of illegal mining.  On this occasion, Abhanpur MLA Mr. Dhanendra Sahu, Chief Minister's Secretary Mr. Siddharth Komal Singh Pardeshi, Raipur District Collector, Superintendent of Police and other senior officers were present.

117 bidders from across the country participated in the first tender

TNINS 

In the first and second tenders of the Tendupatta collection for the year 2023, 68 per cent of the notified quantity in the state was sold at an average rate of Rs 7,199 per standard bag, totaling to Rs 822 crore. The third cycle of online tenders was invited from January 31 to February 3, 2023, for the advance sale of the notified quantity of Tendu leaves.

According to the information received from the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Co-operative Federation Limited, a post-bid sale management software has been developed for further online action after the sale of Tendupatta. Using this software, the buyer appointment order, buyer agreement, and other tasks will be conducted online by the buyers, allowing those from remote areas to complete all necessary work from their location. This year, the Minor Forest Produce Federation will pay special attention to the quality of Tendu leaves before collection, ensuring that collectors can gather high-quality leaves and receive maximum collection remuneration.

It is worth mentioning that the state government has increased the tendu leaf collection rate from Rs 2,500 per standard bag to Rs 4,000 per standard bag since the year 2019. In Chhattisgarh, online tenders were invited for the first cycle of advance sale of 954 lots of 902 primary minor forest produce cooperative societies and the notified quantity of 16.72 lakh standard bags of Tendupatta to be collected in 2023, from December 15, 2022, to December 21, 2022, and for the second cycle from January 10, 2023, to January 13, 2023. Given the high quality of Tendu leaves in the state of Chhattisgarh, 117 bidders from across the country participated in the first tender for the Tendupatta collection year 2023.

Under the chairmanship of Forest Minister Shri Mohammad Akbar, a meeting of the Forest Produce State Trade Inter-Departmental Committee was held on January 3 this year for the first tender and on January 27 for the second tender. The Principal Secretary of the Forest and Climate Change Department Shri Manoj Pingua, and senior officials from the department concerned were present at the meetings.

*Rakesh Kumar Varda won the gold medal*

*The Chief Minister and the Sports Minister congratulated the medal winners.*

TNINS

Raipur, February 10, 2023 Malkhamb players of Chhattisgarh brought laurels to the state by winning gold, silver and bronze medals in the 'Khelo India Youth Games 2022' held at Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel and Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Mr. Umesh Patel have congratulated all the players, coaches, managers and officials of the Chhattisgarh Malkhamb team for this accomplishment.

It is noteworthy that on February 7, the women and men athletes of Chhattisgarh displayed their best performances and created history by earning the title of team champion by earning 201.25 points in the Khelo India youth Games 2022.

In the Individual Apparatus Rope Malkhamb of the Khelo India Youth Games on February 9, athlete Rakesh Kumar Varada won the silver medal with 8.50 points in the boy category and Santosh Sori won the bronze medal with 8.30 points. In the All Over India Apparatus Championship on Friday, February 10, Rakesh Kumar Varada won the gold medal with 8.85 points and Monu Netam won the bronze medal by earning 8.70 points.  Chhattisgarh's male and female Malkhamb athletes proved their mettle in the competition by winning 1 gold, 1 silver and 14 bronze medals, filling Chhattisgarh's bag with a total of 16 medals.

The names of the medal winning athletes are as follows- Manu Dhruv, Monu Netam, Shyamlal Potai, Rakesh Varda, Santosh Sori and Ravindra Kumar in the boys category. The girls section includes Sarita Poyam, Durgeshwari Kumeti, Santaya Potai, Jayanti Kachalam, Himanshi Usendi and Shiksha Dinkar.

Minimata Mahtari Jatan Yojana provides financial assistance of up to Rs 20,000.

Raipur, TNINIS 

In a working family, taking care of the mother and child has become simpler. The Minimata Mahtari Jatan Yojana of the Chhattisgarh government is assisting in institutional delivery of pregnant women and the provision of nutritious food to infants. Pregnant women from labour families are eligible for financial assistance of up to Rs 20,000 under this scheme.

Meanwhile, 703 people have benefited from the Minimata Mahtari Jatan Yojana in Sukma district, which runs from January 2018 to December 2022. Mrs. Mehrunisha, a beneficiary of this scheme, stated that under the Minimata Mahtari Jatan Yojana, we received 20,000 rupees, which made us very happy. We have made a bank deposit for the child's future. Mrs. Priyanka Haldar, a Sukma resident, said the money was deposited in her account just a few days after the child was born.  It is critical for pregnant mothers to look after the health of both the child and the mother after the child is born. In many families, not getting nutritious food on time has a negative impact on the health of both the child and the mother. The health of the child and the mother is well cared for by receiving financial assistance from this scheme. This scheme is unquestionably beneficial to all pregnant women and new born.

 Chief Minister expressed deep grief over the death of five school children in a road accident near Korer in Kanker district.

Raipur TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel has expressed deep sorrow over the death of five schoolchildren in a collision between an auto and a truck at Korer Chilhati Chowk. In this accident, four children were seriously injured. The Chief Minister has directed district administration officers to support the families of the deceased children and to provide the best treatment possible to the seriously injured children in the accident. The children who were injured in the accident were taken to Kanker District Hospital for treatment. The health department is assisting them in every way possible.