Raipur: The Chhattisgarh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhavan, has approved several major administrative and infrastructure-related decisions. The key approvals include extension of scrap disposal arrangements, restructuring of the State Staff Selection Board, and providing relief to contractors amid rising bitumen prices.
Scrap Disposal Deal with MSTC Extended for 3 Years
The Cabinet has approved the extension of the selling agency agreement with Metal Scrap Trade Corporation Limited (MSTC) for another three years.
The arrangement, originally implemented in November 2019 and set to expire on May 31, 2026, will continue to support the disposal of scrap and unused materials from various government departments, PSUs, corporations, and local bodies.
Key benefits of the system include:
- Transparent e-auction-based disposal of scrap
- Better revenue generation for the state
- Elimination of multiple tender and advertisement processes
- Improved cleanliness and space management in government offices
The government said MSTC’s online bidding platform will allow buyers across the country to participate in auctions, ensuring competitive pricing and transparency.
Staff Selection Board to Come Under General Administration Department
The Cabinet also approved bringing the Chhattisgarh Staff Selection Board under the General Administration Department (GAD).
This will require amendments to the “Chhattisgarh Government Allocation of Business Rules”.
The decision follows the implementation of the Chhattisgarh Staff Selection Board Act, 2026, under which the erstwhile Vyapam has already been merged into the new board along with its assets and liabilities.
Officials said the move will improve coordination, strengthen administrative control, and streamline recruitment processes in the state.
Relief for Contractors Amid Rising Bitumen Prices
The Cabinet has also approved limited financial relief for contractors engaged in road construction work due to the sharp rise in bitumen (asphalt) prices.
The relief will be applicable from April 1, 2026 to June 30, 2026.
The government noted that global market conditions and rising petroleum product prices have increased construction costs, affecting ongoing road projects.
To ensure timely completion of infrastructure works, the state has decided to provide partial relief based on a defined formula, similar to the model followed by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Focus on Timely Infrastructure Development
The government emphasized that the decision aims to maintain the pace of road construction and ensure that infrastructure projects are not delayed.
While relief will be provided for bitumen price escalation, existing escalation rules for other construction materials will remain unchanged.
