rural India - Dainik Jagran English

PMGSY Phase 4 to Connect Every Unlinked Village in Chhattisgarh, Roadmap Finalized

Rishita — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 08:31:01 +0530

The Chhattisgarh government has finalized a comprehensive roadmap under Phase 4 of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) aimed at extending all-weather road connectivity to every remaining unconnected habitation in the state. The initiative is expected to strengthen rural infrastructure and improve access to essential services in remote regions.

The decision was reviewed during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain at the state secretariat in Raipur. Officials discussed the progress of ongoing rural road projects and outlined strategies for expanding the road network under the next phase of the centrally sponsored scheme.

According to officials, a detailed mapping exercise will be carried out to identify villages and habitations that still lack paved road connectivity. These locations will then be linked to the main road network under PMGSY Phase 4.

Focus on Planning and Quality

During the review meeting, the Chief Secretary instructed departments to complete detailed surveys, land acquisition procedures, and forest clearances before beginning construction work. Officials were told to ensure that projects do not face delays due to pending approvals after work has commenced.

Authorities also emphasized maintaining construction quality standards while accelerating implementation timelines. The government aims to ensure that newly built roads remain durable and capable of supporting long-term rural development.

Senior officials from the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, Home Department, Housing Department, Public Health Engineering Department, and Chhattisgarh Rural Road Development Agency attended the meeting.

Significant Progress Under PMGSY

Government data presented during the meeting showed substantial progress under various phases of the rural road scheme. So far, 8,358 roads and 447 bridges and culverts have been completed across the state under PMGSY.

In Bastar's Left Wing Extremism-affected regions, 52 previously pending road projects have been completed with the support of security forces. Additionally, 31 major bridges sanctioned under Phase 3 of the scheme have already been constructed.

Officials stated that these projects have significantly improved connectivity in remote and previously inaccessible areas, helping residents access education, healthcare, and markets more efficiently.

Roads for Tribal Communities

The review also highlighted progress under the PM JANMAN initiative. Against a target of 1,372 kilometers of road construction assigned by the central government, Chhattisgarh has already completed approximately 1,517 kilometers.

For Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) settlements, 807 roads were approved to connect 872 habitations. Of these, 366 roads have been completed, while work on 429 roads is currently underway.

Officials said improving connectivity in tribal regions remains a key priority, as road infrastructure plays a crucial role in delivering government services and boosting economic opportunities.

Yoga Day Preparations Also Reviewed

Apart from infrastructure projects, the state government also reviewed preparations for the upcoming International Day of Yoga on June 21. This year's theme is "Yoga for Healthy Ageing."

The Chief Secretary directed district administrations to ensure large-scale public participation in yoga programs at the gram panchayat, block, and district levels. The main state-level event is proposed to be held in Surguja district.

Authorities have also been instructed to coordinate with departments to ensure smooth arrangements for students appearing in the NEET re-examination scheduled around the same period.

Angakar Roti: The Smoky Rice Bread Keeping Chhattisgarh’s Culinary Heritage Alive

Vaishnavi — Tue, 19 May 2026 11:02:47 +0530

In the heart of rural Chhattisgarh, where traditional cooking methods still survive in mud kitchens and wood-fired stoves, Angakar Roti continues to hold a special place on the dining table. This thick, rustic flatbread made primarily from rice flour is more than just a staple food — it is a reflection of the state’s agricultural roots, tribal traditions, and enduring culinary heritage.

Prepared using simple ingredients and cooked over coal fire or clay stoves, Angakar Roti is widely consumed across villages in Chhattisgarh. Over the years, the dish has also begun attracting attention from food enthusiasts and tourists interested in regional Indian cuisine and indigenous food practices. Unlike wheat-based rotis commonly eaten in many parts of India, Angakar Roti is made using rice flour, which is deeply connected to the identity of Chhattisgarh, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of India.” The dough is usually prepared by mixing rice flour with water, salt, and sometimes finely chopped herbs or spices. The roti is then shaped by hand into a thick disc and slowly roasted over a traditional chulha, giving it a smoky aroma and slightly crisp outer layer.

Local food historians say the dish originated in tribal and farming communities where rice cultivation has historically dominated agriculture. Since rice flour was easily available in households, families developed multiple recipes around it, including Angakar Roti, Chila, and Faraa. What makes Angakar Roti stand out is its earthy flavour and rustic cooking technique. Unlike modern gas stove cooking, the coal or wood fire imparts a natural smokiness that enhances the taste. In many villages, the roti is still cooked directly on clay surfaces or iron griddles heated with firewood.

The dish is traditionally served with tomato chutney, garlic chutney, curd, green chilli paste, or seasonal vegetable curries. In tribal households, it is often paired with locally sourced leafy vegetables and forest produce. Some families also prepare a spicier variation by mixing coriander, cumin, onion, and green chillies directly into the dough. Food experts believe the increasing popularity of regional cuisines across India has helped traditional dishes like Angakar Roti gain wider recognition. Several restaurants in cities such as Raipur and Bilaspur have started including authentic Chhattisgarhi dishes in their menus, introducing urban consumers to local food traditions that were once limited to rural homes.

Culinary researchers also point out that Angakar Roti aligns with modern preferences for minimally processed and gluten-light foods. Since the roti is made mainly from rice flour and requires little oil, it is considered comparatively lighter than many fried snacks or refined flour-based items. Nutritionists note that traditional food preparations often relied on local grains and simple cooking methods that supported balanced diets long before packaged health foods entered the market.

Apart from its nutritional value, Angakar Roti also carries emotional and cultural significance for many families in Chhattisgarh. During village gatherings, harvest celebrations, and family functions, large batches of the roti are often prepared collectively by women using age-old techniques passed down through generations. In several tribal communities, cooking traditional food is closely linked with preserving identity and cultural memory.

Tourism officials and local entrepreneurs are now exploring ways to promote indigenous cuisine as part of cultural tourism in the state. Food festivals, handicraft fairs, and tribal exhibitions increasingly showcase dishes such as Angakar Roti to visitors from across the country. Chefs specialising in regional Indian food believe such initiatives can help preserve traditional recipes that risk fading amid changing lifestyles and fast-food culture. Despite growing recognition, many rural cooks say authenticity remains important. They argue that the real taste of Angakar Roti comes not only from the ingredients but also from the traditional method of preparation. According to them, cooking over a mud stove with firewood creates a flavour difficult to replicate in modern kitchens.

As Indian cuisine continues to diversify beyond mainstream restaurant offerings, regional dishes from states like Chhattisgarh are slowly finding their place in national conversations around food heritage. Angakar Roti, with its smoky texture, handmade preparation, and deep connection to local farming culture, stands as a reminder of how traditional foods continue to survive through community practices and generational knowledge. For many in Chhattisgarh, the dish is not merely a type of bread but a symbol of home, simplicity, and cultural continuity. In an era increasingly dominated by instant meals and processed food, Angakar Roti represents a slower, rooted way of cooking that continues to endure across rural India.

Rewa Dhurkuch Power Outage Causes Water Crisis

Abhishek Joshi — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:08:05 +0530

Power Outage Triggers Water Crisis in Rewa’s Dhurkuch Village

Residents of Dhurkuch in Rewa face acute water shortage as prolonged power outage disrupts supply, forcing villagers to fetch contaminated water from forest areas

A prolonged electricity outage in Dhurkuch village of Rewa district has pushed residents into a severe drinking water crisis, with locals trekking nearly two kilometres daily to collect unsafe water from a forested patch.

The disruption, now stretching close to a month, has hit Ward No. 7 under the Dabhaura Nagar Parishad area. With temperatures climbing steadily, the situation on the ground appears to be worsening, particularly for children and the elderly.

Power Cut Sparks Crisis

According to villagers, the issue began when unknown persons allegedly cut an الكهرباء cable supplying the area about a month ago. Since then, electricity has not been restored, bringing routine life to a halt.

The absence of power has directly impacted water availability. Government-installed borewells in the village remain non-functional as electric pumps have stopped working, leaving residents without a reliable source of drinking water.

Trek for Unsafe Water

With no immediate alternative in place, families have been forced to walk nearly two kilometres into a nearby forest area. There, they dig shallow pits in a dried-up riverbed to collect murky water.

“It’s not fit for drinking, but we have no choice,” a local resident said, pointing to the visibly contaminated water collected in containers. The situation, villagers say, has persisted despite repeated complaints.

Complaints Go Unanswered

Residents claim they have approached the electricity department multiple times and even registered complaints through the CM Helpline 181. However, no corrective action has been taken so far.

Ward councillor Asma Devi said the issue has been flagged to concerned officials on several occasions. “We tried contacting the junior engineer, but calls often go unanswered,” she alleged.

Tanker Supply Irregular

Adding to the problem is the irregular supply of water tankers. Locals said that while tankers were expected to provide temporary relief, their visits have been inconsistent, leaving large sections of the village without access to potable water.

“There are days when no tanker comes at all,” said another resident. “We are left to manage on our own.”

Health Concerns Rise

With villagers consuming untreated and potentially contaminated water, concerns over waterborne diseases are growing. Locals report that children and elderly residents are particularly vulnerable in the current conditions.

Though no official health advisory has been issued yet, residents say minor illnesses have already begun to surface in the area.

Administration Steps In

After the issue surfaced in local media, district authorities took note. Narendra Kumar Suryavanshi, Collector of Rewa, has directed concerned departments to address the situation on priority.

“Instructions have been issued to restore electricity and ensure proper water supply at the earliest,” he said, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Awaiting Ground Action

While assurances have been made, villagers remain cautious. Many say they have heard similar promises before, but tangible action is yet to be seen.

For now, Dhurkuch continues to grapple with a daily struggle for basic necessities. As the heat intensifies, the urgency for restoring power and ensuring safe drinking water is only growing.

Rewa Quarry Accident: Woman Dies After Falling Into Pit

Abhishek Joshi — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 11:52:41 +0530

Woman Dies After Falling Into Quarry in Rewa, Tractor Overturns

Rewa quarry accident highlights illegal mining concerns as villagers demand strict action after woman’s death

A 35-year-old woman died after falling into a stone quarry in Rewa on Tuesday morning, in an incident that has once again drawn attention to alleged illegal mining activities in the area. The matter occurred near Baijnathpur in Naubasta village, where complaints of unauthorised excavation have surfaced repeatedly over the past few months.

The deceased has been identified as Sumitra Kevat. According to initial reports, she fell into a deep quarry pit, triggering panic at the site. In the immediate aftermath, a tractor present at the location also overturned, adding to the chaos and concern among those present.

Incident unfolds quickly

Locals said the sequence of events unfolded rapidly during the morning hours. Sumitra had reportedly gone to the quarry area when she slipped and fell into the pit. Family members and others were nearby at the time but were unable to prevent the fall.

The tractor overturning soon after the fall created a tense situation, with villagers gathering at the site as word spread. Some attempted to assist before authorities arrived, though by then, it was too late.

Illegal mining concerns

Residents of Naubasta and nearby areas allege that illegal stone extraction has been ongoing for months without effective intervention. They claim heavy machinery and tractors frequently transport mined material, often operating without adequate safety measures.

“Accidents like this have been waiting to happen,” said a local resident, pointing to the depth of the quarry pits and lack of fencing or warning signs. According to villagers, repeated complaints to authorities have not resulted in sustained action.

Police response

According to police officials, the woman had entered the quarry area where illegal excavation was suspected. “She fell into a deep pit, which led to her death,” a police officer said, adding that a case has been registered.

Station in-charge Ghanshyam Mishra confirmed that a team reached the spot soon after receiving information. The body was recovered and sent for post-mortem examination.

“We are investigating all aspects of the case, including the role of illegal mining. Necessary action will be taken based on findings,” he said.

Family present at site

Sources familiar with the matter said that members of the victim’s family were present when the incident took place. The suddenness of the inciedent left them in shock, with little time to react.

There were no immediate reports of injuries from the tractor overturning, though it heightened the urgency of the situation and raised questions about operational safety at such sites.

Villagers demand action

Following the incident, villagers gathered and voiced strong objections to the alleged inaction against illegal mining. They demanded immediate steps to halt unauthorised quarrying in the area.

Residents argued that stricter monitoring and enforcement could prevent such tragedies. “If authorities had acted earlier, this could have been avoided,” one villager said, echoing a sentiment shared by many at the site.

Investigation underway

Authorities have indicated that a detailed inquiry is being carried out. Officials are expected to examine whether safety norms were violated and identify those responsible for illegal mining activities.

The Rewa quarry accident has once again brought focus to the risks associated with unregulated excavation, particularly in rural pockets where oversight may be limited. For now, the administration faces mounting pressure to ensure accountability and prevent further incidents.