Dhamtari: Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, inaugurated several major development initiatives at a state-level ceremony in Dhamtari, Chhattisgarh. The event marked the formal launch of Rs 2,225 crore worth of rural road projects, the inclusion of Chhattisgarh in the National Makhana Development Board, direct payments under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme, and multiple other welfare programs aimed at rural development.
Boosting Rural Connectivity Through PMGSY
As part of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Minister Chouhan presented official documents for 2,225 crore-approved rural road projects. These projects will provide all-weather road connectivity to nearly 780 villages in Chhattisgarh for the first time, constructing over 2,500 kilometers of new roads.
Highlighting the significance of infrastructure development, the Minister stated, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has achieved remarkable progress in expanding rural infrastructure, and road construction plays a crucial role in boosting economic activity in villages.”
Chhattisgarh has consistently performed as a front-runner in PMGSY implementation, with 9,722 roads covering 48,594 km and 669 bridges approved so far, out of which 8,753 roads (43,380 km) and 470 bridges have been successfully completed.
The Ministry of Rural Development has now approved 774 new roads under PMGSY-IV, totaling 2,426.875 km, aiming to connect previously inaccessible habitations with all-weather roads. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the approval as a historic step toward strengthening rural connectivity in remote areas.
Expansion of National Makhana Development Board to Chhattisgarh
Union Minister Chouhan announced that Chhattisgarh will now be included in the National Makhana Development Board, established by the central government. This inclusion is expected to provide farmers in the state with new opportunities in makhana cultivation, processing, value addition, and access to national markets, thereby boosting rural incomes.
Focus on Naxal-Free Development and Security
Chouhan also highlighted the state’s progress in tackling Naxalism, calling it a decisive blow to extremist activities in Chhattisgarh. He credited the coordinated campaigns led under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the significant reduction in Naxal violence, noting that the insurgency is now in its final stages. The Minister emphasized that improved security will pave the way for greater investment, development, and rural peace in the state.
Empowering Farmers Through Direct Benefits
Alongside road and infrastructure projects, the Minister oversaw the direct transfer of payments under PM-Kisan to farmers, ensuring financial support for agricultural households and reinforcing the government’s commitment to rural welfare.
A Major Step for Chhattisgarh’s Rural Development
The combination of improved road connectivity, inclusion in national boards like the Makhana Board, financial support for farmers, and strengthened security measures reflects a comprehensive approach to rural development. These initiatives are expected to drive economic growth, increase rural employment, and bring sustainable progress to remote and marginalized areas across Chhattisgarh.
