Ratanpur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced a ₹200 crore development plan for the holistic growth of the religious town of Ratanpur and the establishment of a 100-bed hospital, during his address at the Kalturi Kalar Samaj Mahasammelan held on Sunday.
The Chief Minister began the event by offering prayers to Lord Sahastrabahu and Bahadur Kalarin Dai, marking the inauguration of the grand social conference.
Development Push for Ratanpur
CM Sai said that a comprehensive development proposal worth ₹200 crore has been sent to the Central Government under the PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme for approval, which is expected soon.
He also announced a grant of ₹1 crore for the construction of a community hall for the Kalturi Samaj, reaffirming his government’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while ensuring modern amenities in the region.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was chaired by Health and Family Welfare Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, and attended by Culture and Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal, MLAs Dharamlal Kaushik, Amar Agrawal, Sushant Shukla, Atal Shrivastava, and Sangeeta Sinha, along with Zila Panchayat President Rajesh Suryavanshi, CREDA Chairman Bhupendra Savanni, Yoga Commission Chairman Rupanarayan Sinha, and Bilaspur Mayor Pooja Vidhani.
Honoring the Legacy of the Kalchuri Dynasty
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sai paid homage to the Kalchuri dynasty, which ruled Ratanpur and several parts of India for nearly 1,200 years. He noted that under their rule, the nation witnessed prosperity and peace. “With the blessings of Maa Mahamaya, Chhattisgarh is progressing rapidly in every field,” he added.
State’s Progress and Government Achievements
Highlighting the achievements of his 22-month-old government, CM Sai said that most of the “Modi Guarantee” promises have already been fulfilled. He mentioned that the state government is procuring paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal in line with commitments made to farmers.
Under the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, about 70 lakh women across Chhattisgarh are receiving ₹1,000 per month, ensuring financial empowerment of women at the grassroots level.
Target to Make Chhattisgarh Naxal-Free by 2026
The Chief Minister also emphasized the government’s focus on eliminating Left Wing Extremism. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have set a target to make Chhattisgarh completely free of Naxalism by March 31, 2026. Development activities have already started in the affected regions, and many villages in Bastar are now reconnecting with the mainstream,” he said.
Investment and Employment Generation
Speaking on economic development, CM Sai shared that Chhattisgarh’s new Industrial Policy has received investment proposals worth ₹7.5 lakh crore, including projects in artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing.
He stressed that the policy prioritizes employment generation, offering incentives to industries that create more local jobs. He urged citizens and entrepreneurs to take full advantage of these opportunities for inclusive growth.
Vision Document 2047: A Roadmap for the Future
Outlining the long-term goals of his administration, CM Sai mentioned the launch of Vision Document 2047, which aims to make Chhattisgarh a leading and self-reliant state by India’s centenary of independence. He called for the active participation of every community and citizen to achieve these goals collectively.
Ministers Highlight Kalchuri Legacy
Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, in his presidential address, said that Ratanpur was once the primary center of the Kalchuri kingdom, which ruled various parts of India for around 1,200 years. He stated that the “double-engine government” — at the Center and in the state — is ensuring rapid progress across sectors.
Jaiswal thanked CM Sai for naming a square in Naya Raipur after Lord Sahastrabahu, recognizing the historical and cultural contributions of the Kalchuri community.
Culture and Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal added that India’s Sanatan culture promotes social harmony and equality, respecting all deities and traditions alike.
Prayer at Maa Mahamaya Temple
Before attending the Mahasammelan, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited the Maa Mahamaya Temple in Ratanpur. He performed a traditional puja and aarti, seeking blessings for the peace, prosperity, and progress of Chhattisgarh.
