Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the closing ceremony of the National Trade Expo 2026 organized by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) at BTI Ground in Raipur. During the event, he emphasized that Chhattisgarh has become a favorable destination for trade, industry, and investment, attracting entrepreneurs from across the country.
Budget 2026-27 Focused on Development and “Sankalp” Theme
The Chief Minister highlighted the Chhattisgarh state budget for 2026-27, totaling ₹1.72 lakh crore, marking the third year of his government.
- 2024-25: Theme “Gyaan” – focused on farmers, youth, women, and marginalized sections
- 2025-26: Theme “Gati” – accelerated developmental projects
- 2026-27: Theme “Sankalp” – aligned with PM Narendra Modi’s mantra: “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”
The budget places special emphasis on the Bastar and Surguja regions, historically affected by Naxalism, aiming to accelerate development and strengthen local economies.
Development Initiatives in Bastar and Surguja
Chief Minister Sai outlined several initiatives to boost the economy and infrastructure in these regions:
- Education: Budget allocations for Education City in Abujhmad and Jagargunda
- Agriculture & Forest Produce: Promoting value addition for hundreds of forest products, strengthening local livelihoods
- Afforestation: Nearly 7 crore saplings planted under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign
- Naxalism: Significant reduction in Maoist activities over the past two years, supporting the government’s goal to eliminate Naxalism by 31 March 2026
Vision for a Developed Chhattisgarh by 2047
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s long-term goal of building a developed Chhattisgarh in line with India’s 2047 development vision:
- Preparing a vision document for the state
- Targeting to double GSDP in five years and achieve ₹75 lakh crore GSDP by 2047
- Promoting investments through a new industrial policy, attracting proposals worth ₹8 lakh crore, including projects in semiconductors and artificial intelligence
He stressed the key role of traders in this development journey and congratulated CAIT for the successful organization of the National Trade Expo.
Event Highlights and Participation
During the Expo, Chief Minister Sai:
- Inspected various stalls
- Released Swadeshi posters published by CAIT
The event saw the presence of Sunil Singhi, Chairman of the National Traders Welfare Board, Raipur Mayor Meenal Chaube, CAIT National Vice President Amar Parwani, along with numerous traders and dignitaries.
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