Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu deo Sai on Friday marked the completion of two years in office by holding a press conference in Raipur, where he detailed the achievements of his government across development, welfare, and security initiatives. The press briefing was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw, Minister Vijay Sharma, and seven other cabinet ministers.
Housing and Farmer Welfare Initiatives
CM Sai highlighted that his government approved 18 lakh housing units during the first cabinet session, many of which have already been allotted to beneficiaries, with construction ongoing for the rest. The government fulfilled its promise to purchase paddy from farmers at ₹3,100 per quintal, completing two rounds of procurement with a third underway. Farmers now receive payments within a week, and arrears of the two-year bonus have been cleared.
Under the Mahatari Vandan scheme, 22 installments have been disbursed, transferring over ₹14,000 crore directly to women’s accounts, empowering them economically. The Charan Paduka scheme was revived, and free ration distribution continues for 73 lakh poor families. Landless farmers have also been provided ₹10,000 each under state welfare initiatives.
Progress in Naxal-Affected Areas
CM Sai reported significant progress in curbing Naxalism in the state. So far, 505 Naxals have been neutralized, 2,386 have surrendered, and 1,901 have been arrested. The government has established 69 security camps in affected areas, coupled with the “Punarvas Niti” rehabilitation policy to integrate surrendered Naxals into mainstream society, offering ₹10,000 per month for three years to encourage rehabilitation.
Development work has resumed in previously conflict-affected villages. Fifty schools that were shut due to Naxal violence are now operational, and hospitals are reopening. In 403 Naxal-affected villages, 53 government schemes and 28 community facilities have been implemented, including paved roads, health centers, schools, mobile towers, and ration shops.
Cultural and Religious Initiatives
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s efforts in promoting cultural heritage through the Shri Ram Lalla Darshan Yojana, allowing over 37,000 Chhattisgarhi pilgrims to visit Ayodhya and Kashi Vishwanath for free since the inception of the program.
Industrial Growth and Infrastructure Development
The new industrial policy has attracted investment proposals worth ₹8 lakh crore to the state. A semiconductor unit is being established in Nava Raipur, marking a significant milestone in high-tech manufacturing.
Rail and Connectivity Projects
Rail development has been a major focus, with projects worth ₹47,500 crore underway. The length of rail lines in Chhattisgarh has doubled since 2014, and cargo services have started in Raipur. Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are also being prepared to connect the Indravati and Mahanadi rivers via pipelines to enhance water management and regional connectivity.
Under CM Vishnu deo Sai, Chhattisgarh has prioritized inclusive growth, infrastructure development, industrial investment, and cultural promotion, alongside effective law enforcement and rehabilitation measures in Naxal-affected areas, positioning the state on a strong development trajectory.
