Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that the respect, safety and economic empowerment of women remain among the state government’s top priorities. He made the remarks while attending a Teej Milan ceremony hosted at the residence of Revenue Minister Tank Ram Verma.
During the traditional gathering, CM Sai interacted with women and extended his greetings on the occasion of Teej. He said the festival reflects Chhattisgarh’s cultural traditions, family values and close social relationships.
He also said that women hold a special place in the cultural traditions of the state and that their participation is important in building a stronger society and a developed Chhattisgarh.
Mahatari Vandan Provides Monthly Financial Support
Highlighting the Mahatari Vandan Yojana, CM Sai said the scheme has become an important source of financial support for women in Chhattisgarh.
According to the figures cited by the Chief Minister, more than 68 lakh women are receiving ₹1,000 every month directly into their bank accounts. He said that more than ₹20,000 crore has been transferred through 31 instalments so far.
CM Sai said women are using the assistance for household needs as well as children’s education, savings and small self-employment activities. He cited examples of beneficiaries using the money for Sukanya Samriddhi accounts and purchasing sewing machines to turn their skills into sources of income.
He said the objective is not to treat women merely as beneficiaries of government schemes, but to enable them to participate equally in the development of the state.
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13.85 Lakh Women Become Lakhpati Didis
The Chief Minister also highlighted the growing participation of women in self-employment and livelihood activities.
He said 13.85 lakh women in Chhattisgarh have become Lakhpati Didis. Women associated with self-help groups are participating in various economic activities and small businesses to increase their family incomes.
CM Sai said women’s economic empowerment should go beyond financial assistance and include access to sustainable livelihoods, skills and self-employment opportunities.
The figure of 13.85 lakh Lakhpati Didis has also been reported in connection with the state government’s recent women-empowerment initiatives.
₹650 Crore Film City to Open New Opportunities
Another major announcement highlighted at the event was the development of a Film City in Chhattisgarh at an estimated cost of ₹650 crore.
CM Sai said the project is aimed at promoting film production and expanding opportunities for the state’s local artists, technicians and young people. It is also expected to support tourism and provide a larger platform for Chhattisgarh’s folk art and cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister said Chhattisgarh is known for its distinctive folk traditions, cultural heritage and natural beauty. The Film City is being positioned as part of efforts to take these cultural strengths to wider audiences in India and abroad. The ₹650 crore Film City figure was independently reported in coverage of the September 22 event.
Teej and the Cultural Role of Women
Speaking about Teej, CM Sai said the festival is associated with the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is linked with prayers for family happiness and prosperity.
He said festivals and traditions help strengthen relationships within families and communities. He also referred to the place accorded to women in Indian cultural traditions and described mothers as the first teachers of children and an important foundation of family values.
According to the Chief Minister, stronger families and communities can contribute to the broader development of the state.
Government Focus on Development and Women’s Participation
CM Sai said the state government is working towards the overall development of villages, poor families, farmers and women, while seeking to use Chhattisgarh’s resources for public welfare.
He said women’s participation, work and contribution would remain important to the state’s development journey.
The Teej Milan ceremony also featured a traditional folk-song presentation by Revenue Minister Tank Ram Verma for the women attending the event. Public representatives, senior citizens and a large number of women were present.
The event also highlighted the state government’s wider focus on women’s economic participation, cultural preservation and opportunities for local talent. The combination of the Mahatari Vandan scheme, the Lakhpati Didi figures and the proposed Film City formed key parts of the message around women’s empowerment and development in Chhattisgarh.
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