Chhattisgarh's first major folk festival, Hareli Tihar, was celebrated at Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai's residence in Nava Raipur on Wednesday, with traditional rituals, cultural performances and a display of the state's rural heritage.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai performed the traditional puja of the hal-nangar, the plough and agricultural equipment, marking the festival associated with farming, greenery and prosperity. Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam and Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh were also present at the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Raman Singh said the prosperity of farmers was directly linked to the development of Chhattisgarh. He said around ₹35,000 crore had been transferred to farmers' accounts over the past year, adding that the state's progress would accelerate when farmers' households became financially stronger.

Traditional Festival at CM House

The Chief Minister's residence was decorated in a traditional Chhattisgarhi style for Hareli. Neem and mango leaves, marigold flowers and rural-themed decorations were used across the premises.

Traditional food items, including fara and chilla, were distributed among visitors. Several other local dishes were also prepared as part of the celebrations.

The programme featured folk performances and traditional activities, giving visitors a glimpse of Chhattisgarh's rural culture.

Hal-Nangar Worship

Hareli is closely associated with agriculture and the beginning of the farming season. On the occasion, farmers traditionally clean and worship their ploughs, agricultural tools and other equipment.

The ritual is performed with prayers for a good harvest, prosperity and well-being. Celebrated during the monsoon season, Hareli also reflects the importance of greenery and farming in the cultural life of Chhattisgarh.

Gedi and Traditional Games

Traditional gedi activities were also organised at the Chief Minister's residence. Participants were seen performing on stilts, while folk artists appeared in traditional attire.

Traditional games and cultural activities linked to village life and agriculture were also part of the programme.

The event was designed not only to celebrate Hareli but also to introduce younger generations to the state's traditional customs and rural lifestyle.

Focus on Folk Culture

The state government has been highlighting the preservation and promotion of Chhattisgarh's folk traditions and festivals.

The Hareli programme at the CM's residence brought together agricultural traditions, local cuisine, folk performances and traditional games under one platform.

The celebrations also included floral offerings to Chhattisgarh Mahtari, while traditional swings were installed on the CM House premises.

Folk artist Aaru Sahu also performed during the celebrations.

Festival Linked to Farmers

Hareli holds a special place in Chhattisgarh's agricultural calendar. The festival is traditionally associated with farmers expressing gratitude for agricultural tools and seeking a healthy crop and prosperity.

The celebrations at the Chief Minister's residence reflected the government's effort to showcase the state's agricultural heritage while keeping its folk traditions connected with contemporary public life.

: Chhattisgarh will host the fifth Green Steel and Mining Summit in Raipur on August 12 and 13, bringing together steelmakers, mining companies, technology providers, financial institutions and policymakers.

The international conference-cum-exposition is being organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry and the CII-Godrej Green Business Centre at Mayfair Resort in Raipur.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai is listed as the chief guest. Siddharth Agrawal, managing director of Godawari Power and Ispat Limited, will chair the summit.

The theme is “Decarbonizing the Indian Steel and Mining Industry”.

Focus on Low-Carbon Production

Sessions are expected to examine ways of reducing emissions from primary and secondary steel production, including direct-reduced iron, blast furnaces, electric-arc furnaces and rolling mills.

Other focus areas include low-emission steel products, international clean-technology models, financing and policies that could accelerate demand for green steel.

The organisers are also expected to discuss the India Green Steel Coalition and opportunities for collaboration between manufacturers, miners and technology companies.

The event has particular relevance for Chhattisgarh because of the state’s large iron-ore, coal, sponge-iron and steel industries. Measures that reduce energy consumption and emissions could affect future capital expenditure, technology purchases and market access for local producers.

However, the summit should presently be reported as an upcoming event. Any investment commitments, policy announcements or agreements should be published only after they are formally announced during the conference.

Migrant Workers Targeted in Fresh Terror Attack in Jammu and Kashmir

In a gruesome terror attack reminiscent of the Pahalgam incident, two migrant labourers from Chhattisgarh were shot dead by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district after they were allegedly identified as Hindus. The victims, who had travelled to Kashmir in search of livelihood, were working at a brick kiln in Kelam, around 20 kilometres from Kulgam town.

The deceased have been identified as Deepak Ratre (24) from Bundeli village in Sakti district and Bhupendra Bhaina (28) from Chhuiha village in Sarangarh-Bilaigarh district. Security forces have launched a massive search operation in the area while investigations into the attack are underway.

Attack Followed Religious Identification

According to preliminary information, the terrorists first questioned the group of migrant workers about their identities. After confirming their names and identifying them as Hindus, the attackers allegedly separated the two men from the group and opened fire at close range.

Officials said the attack occurred around 8:30 pm at the brick kiln where several migrant workers were employed. Witnesses reportedly heard three to four rounds of gunfire before the attackers fled the scene.

Security agencies have cordoned off the entire area, intensified vehicle checks, and launched a joint search operation involving the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other security forces.

Families Lose Their Sole Breadwinners

Deepak Ratre had moved to Jammu and Kashmir nearly a year ago along with his wife and brother to earn a living. He leaves behind his elderly mother, a specially-abled brother, his wife, and a two-year-old son. Family members described him as the sole earning member supporting the household.

Meanwhile, Bhupendra Bhaina had travelled to Kashmir with his wife nearly three months ago for work. He is survived by his two-year-old son, grandmother, and sister, who remain in their native village.

The deaths have plunged both villages into mourning, with relatives and residents expressing shock over the tragic incident.

Bodies to Be Brought Back to Chhattisgarh

State authorities have initiated the process of bringing the mortal remains of both victims back to Chhattisgarh. Officials from the district administration have met the bereaved families and assured them of all possible assistance.

As per existing provisions, the families of terror attack victims are entitled to compensation of around ₹16 lakh, including an immediate relief amount of ₹2 lakh.

Investigation Focuses on Terror Module

Initial investigations indicate that the attackers may have conducted prior reconnaissance before targeting the brick kiln. Intelligence agencies suspect the involvement of both a local militant and a foreign terrorist.

Sources said investigators are examining the possible role of Mohammad Latif, who reportedly joined the Lashkar-e-Taiba/The Resistance Front (TRF) last year. However, officials have not issued any formal statement confirming the identities of the attackers.

The incident has also raised concerns ahead of Kashmir's upcoming apple harvesting season, when thousands of migrant labourers travel to the Valley for seasonal work.

Chief Minister Condemns Attack

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a "cowardly act of terrorism."

He expressed grief over the loss of innocent lives and said the state government is in constant touch with the Jammu and Kashmir administration to ensure all possible assistance to the affected families.

"The Chhattisgarh government stands firmly with the bereaved families during this difficult time," the Chief Minister said while paying tribute to the victims.

Recent Spike in Terror Incidents

The attack comes just days after a police personnel was killed in a terrorist attack in Anantnag during security deployment for the Amarnath Yatra. Security agencies have expressed concern over renewed attempts by terrorists to target civilians and migrant workers in the Valley.

With the latest incident, security forces have intensified anti-terror operations across South Kashmir.

 The Congress on Friday intensified its attack on the Chhattisgarh government over recent malaria-related deaths, demanding the resignation of Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal and alleging serious shortcomings in the state's disease surveillance and testing system.

State Congress Medical Cell chairman Dr. Rakesh Gupta accused the government of failing to ensure adequate availability of Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits for malaria, claiming the shortage has adversely affected screening and early detection in several districts.

Congress Cites Stock Report

Addressing the issue, Dr. Gupta referred to the Chhattisgarh Medical Services Corporation Limited (CMSCL) stock report dated July 30, 2026, alleging that only 3,588 malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test kits were available in government warehouses across the state.

He claimed that several districts currently have no RDT kits in stock and questioned how frontline health workers are conducting malaria screening under such circumstances.

"If rapid test kits are unavailable, on what basis are Mitanins and field health workers diagnosing malaria? Is the entire system relying only on blood smear tests, or has screening itself been affected?" he asked, urging the Health Minister to clarify the situation.

Deaths Trigger Political Row

The Congress raised the issue following recent malaria-related deaths reported from Kanker district, where four people, including three students and one woman, lost their lives.

Health authorities have confirmed malaria cases in villages including Sardi, Domargarh, Madepote and Chichgaon, where more than 30 people have tested positive. Medical teams have established health camps and are conducting screening, testing and treatment in the affected areas.

The opposition alleged that the deaths exposed weaknesses in the state's malaria prevention strategy and accused the government of failing to respond effectively to the outbreak.

Government Accused of Concealing Ground Reality

Dr. Gupta further alleged that the Health Minister was attempting to downplay the seriousness of the malaria situation.

He also referred to malaria-related deaths reported in parts of Kabirdham district, claiming that the government's public statements did not accurately reflect the conditions on the ground.

According to the Congress, delays in diagnosis and inadequate preventive measures have contributed to the worsening situation in vulnerable tribal regions.

Reference to Previous Malaria Campaign

The Congress highlighted the previous government's 'Malaria Mukt Bastar Abhiyan', stating that the programme had significantly reduced malaria prevalence through extensive door-to-door screening and timely treatment.

The party claimed that the current administration has failed to sustain those gains and has weakened the public health response in malaria-prone districts.

Questions Over Mosquito Net Distribution

Apart from testing infrastructure, the Congress also questioned the procurement and distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

The party alleged that delays and administrative lapses have affected preventive measures in vulnerable communities and warned that the situation could deteriorate further if immediate corrective steps are not taken.

Demand for Accountability

The Congress has urged Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai to remove the Health Minister from office, holding him accountable for the state's handling of the malaria situation.

The state government has not yet issued a detailed response to the Congress' allegations regarding the availability of malaria testing kits. Health authorities, however, have maintained that screening, testing and treatment activities are continuing in the affected districts.

The Chhattisgarh Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, commenced on Wednesday at Mahanadi Bhawan in Raipur. The meeting is expected to focus on several important policy proposals and administrative matters, with multiple decisions likely to receive the Cabinet's approval.

According to official sources, ministers are reviewing proposals submitted by various departments. While the state government has not released the official agenda in advance, discussions are expected to cover issues related to agriculture, monsoon preparedness, governance, and public welfare.

Focus on Farmers and Kharif Season

With the southwest monsoon remaining active across Chhattisgarh and the Kharif cropping season underway, agriculture is expected to be one of the meeting's major focus areas.

The Cabinet may discuss measures aimed at supporting farmers, reviewing crop conditions, ensuring the availability of agricultural inputs, and strengthening relief mechanisms in districts affected by heavy rainfall or other weather-related challenges.

Officials are also expected to assess the state's preparedness to address issues arising from continuous rainfall, including waterlogging, crop protection, and disaster management.

Monsoon Preparedness on Agenda

The ongoing monsoon has increased the need for coordinated planning across departments. The Cabinet is likely to review the preparedness of agencies responsible for flood control, road connectivity, drinking water supply, health services, and emergency response.

Given the seasonal challenges, discussions may include measures to strengthen coordination between district administrations and disaster management authorities to ensure timely assistance wherever required.

Transfer Policy May Be Discussed

Administrative issues, including the state's transfer policy, are also expected to come up during the meeting. Government employees have been awaiting clarity on transfer-related decisions, and the Cabinet may deliberate on proposals concerning administrative postings and departmental requirements.

However, no official confirmation has been issued regarding specific policy changes.

Official Decisions Awaited

Since the government has not made the Cabinet agenda public, the exact proposals under consideration remain undisclosed. Details of the decisions taken during the meeting are expected to be announced after the Cabinet concludes.

The outcomes of the meeting are being closely watched, particularly by farmers, government employees, and various departments, as several policy decisions with administrative and public welfare implications could be announced.

The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Friday rejected the Congress party’s no-confidence motion against the Vishnu Deo Sai government after an extensive 14-hour and 30-minute debate, bringing the five-day Monsoon Session to a close. The motion was defeated by a voice vote, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) retaining the confidence of the House.

Responding to the motion, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the proposal was not merely against his government but against the mandate given by the people of Chhattisgarh.

“The people have trusted this government, and we are committed to fulfilling that mandate. The BJP will return to power in the next Assembly election with more than 70 seats, while the Congress will remain out of power for the next 25 years,” the Chief Minister said during his reply.

Government Defends Its Record

CM Sai described his government as one committed to public welfare and tribal development, stating that the Congress was uncomfortable with “the son of a tribal farmer becoming Chief Minister.”

He also accused the previous Congress government of corruption, unfulfilled promises and turning the state into an “ATM for Delhi,” while highlighting the BJP government's governance initiatives and welfare measures.

Congress Targets Government on Key Issues

Leading the opposition's attack, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel accused the BJP government of failing farmers and neglecting public welfare.

Baghel alleged shortages of fertilisers, irregularities in paddy procurement, deteriorating law and order, and shortcomings in welfare schemes, including the Mahtari Vandan Yojana. He also raised concerns over tribal rights, the Hasdeo forest region, PESA implementation, alleged fake fertiliser distribution and the Mahadev betting app case.

Claiming that an “invisible force” was running the government, Baghel accused the administration of taking decisions that were against public interest.

Opposition Raises Environmental and Law-and-Order Concerns

Leader of Opposition Dr Charandas Mahant criticised the government over the proposed mining expansion in the Hasdeo Aranya region.

He alleged that permission for mining over 91 hectares would lead to the felling of nearly 15,000 trees, describing Hasdeo as the “lungs of central India.” Mahant accused the government of prioritising industrial interests over environmental conservation and tribal rights.

He also questioned the government over crimes against women, the Balodabazar violence, unemployment, procurement of paddy, implementation of the PESA Act, alleged corruption in the excise department and issues related to tribal land rights.

During the debate, Mahant submitted a 136-point chargesheet against the Sai government.

Mahtari Vandan Issue Sparks Protest

The House witnessed heated exchanges over the removal of 1.55 lakh beneficiaries from the Mahtari Vandan Yojana.

Congress members protested the government's response and staged a walkout after demanding explanations for the removal of women's names from the beneficiary list.

Separately, Congress MLA Anila Bhediya raised the issue of alleged distribution of imitation mangalsutras during a mass marriage programme. Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade said no complaint had been received from Balod district regarding the matter.

No-Confidence Motion Explained

A no-confidence motion allows the Opposition to question the government's overall performance and place its record under legislative scrutiny. The ruling party, in turn, uses the debate to defend its governance and respond to allegations.

In this case, after the lengthy discussion concluded, the motion was rejected by a voice vote as the ruling BJP retained its majority in the Assembly.

History of No-Confidence Motions in Chhattisgarh

Since the formation of Chhattisgarh in 2000, the Assembly has witnessed 10 no-confidence motions, none of which have succeeded in bringing down a government.

The longest debate on such a motion took place in July 2015, when discussions against the then Raman Singh government continued for 24 hours and 25 minutes.

The previous Congress government led by Bhupesh Baghel also survived no-confidence motions moved by the BJP in 2022 and 2023, both of which were defeated after lengthy debates.

The fifth and final day of the Chhattisgarh Assembly's Monsoon Session witnessed heated exchanges as the opposition Congress cornered the BJP government over the removal of 1.55 lakh beneficiaries from the Mahtari Vandan Yojana and later moved a no-confidence motion against the Vishnu Deo Sai-led government.

The Congress staged a walkout during Question Hour after expressing dissatisfaction with the government's explanation regarding the reduction in beneficiaries under the flagship welfare scheme.

1.55 Lakh Beneficiaries Removed

Replying to a question in the House, Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade said the number of beneficiaries under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana had declined from 70.09 lakh to 68.54 lakh.

She attributed the removal of names to reasons such as the death of beneficiaries, failure to complete e-KYC, beneficiaries becoming income taxpayers, and ineligibility identified during verification.

Unsatisfied with the response, Congress legislators raised slogans inside the Assembly before walking out.

Ration Distribution Also Discussed

The House also discussed issues related to the Public Distribution System (PDS).

Congress MLA Sheshraj Harbans demanded an additional seven kilograms of rice for Antyodaya ration card holders. BJP MLA Sushant Shukla alleged that spices were being forcibly sold at fair price shops.

Food Minister Dayaldas Baghel assured the House that the government would investigate the allegations if documentary evidence and complaints were submitted.

Congress Tables No-Confidence Motion

Following Question Hour, Leader of Opposition Dr Charan Das Mahant moved a no-confidence motion against the state government, presenting a 136-point chargesheet.

Mahant accused the BJP government of failing on multiple fronts, including environmental protection, law and order, tribal welfare, implementation of the PESA Act, land acquisition in tribal areas, alleged tree felling in Abujhmad, irregularities in the Bharatmala project, and alleged corruption in the Excise Department.

Hasdeo Aranya and Law & Order in Focus

Mahant alleged that the government was encouraging mining activities in the ecologically sensitive Hasdeo Aranya region by allowing large-scale tree felling.

Referring to a 2022 Assembly resolution seeking cancellation of coal blocks in the forest region, he claimed that mining approvals had undermined the state's environmental interests.

He also criticised the government's handling of law and order, citing incidents of violence in Balodabazar and crimes against women. The Congress leader alleged that public safety had deteriorated under the present administration.

Government Faces Political Test

The no-confidence motion provides the opposition an opportunity to question the government's performance across sectors, while the ruling BJP is expected to defend its welfare initiatives, governance record and development agenda.

With 54 BJP MLAs, 35 Congress legislators, and one member from the Gondwana Gantantra Party, the numerical strength remains firmly in favour of the ruling alliance, making the passage of the motion highly unlikely.

Historically, every no-confidence motion moved in the Chhattisgarh Assembly since the state's formation has been defeated, with governments consistently retaining majority support.

The second day of the Chhattisgarh Assembly's Monsoon Session witnessed repeated disruptions on Tuesday as the opposition cornered the BJP government over the Vedanta plant accident in Sakti district, in which 25 people lost their lives, while a sharp verbal exchange over the Congress' proposed no-confidence motion added to the political heat inside the House.

The Congress accused the government of failing to ensure accountability in the industrial tragedy and demanded stringent action against those responsible. Unsatisfied with the government's response, opposition legislators staged a protest inside the Assembly before walking out.

Vedanta Accident Dominates Question Hour

The Vedanta plant incident remained the central issue during Question Hour.

Leader of Opposition Dr Charan Das Mahant questioned the government on whether any attempt had been made to interrogate or arrest industrialist Anil Agarwal in connection with the accident.

Replying on behalf of the government, Industries Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan informed the House that an FIR had already been registered and the investigation was underway. He assured members that legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible after the probe.

Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel also sought clarification on whether investigators had attempted to question senior officials linked to the company and whether accountability would extend to top management in similar industrial accidents.

Dissatisfied with the minister's response, Congress legislators protested inside the House before staging a walkout.

War of Words Over No-Confidence Motion

Political temperatures rose further when the discussion shifted to the Congress' proposed no-confidence motion against the Vishnu Deo Sai government.

During Question Hour, BJP MLA Ajay Chandrakar remarked that the Opposition had already submitted a no-confidence motion but was continuing to raise questions inside the House.

Responding to the comment, Leader of Opposition Dr Charan Das Mahant replied that the reasons behind bringing the motion would be explained during the debate, leading to a sharp exchange between the two senior legislators and drawing attention across the Assembly.

The no-confidence motion, expected to be admitted after procedural formalities, will be the 10th such motion in the history of the Chhattisgarh Assembly since the state's formation.

Farm Issues Trigger Another Protest

The Congress also moved an adjournment motion over issues related to fertiliser availability, certified seeds and electricity supply during the ongoing kharif season.

Opposition members alleged shortages of DAP, potash and other fertilisers, accusing the government of failing to support farmers during the sowing season.

Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam rejected the allegations, stating that the state had adequate stocks of fertilisers and seeds. He informed the House that more than 14 lakh metric tonnes of fertilisers had been made available and action had been taken in 94 cases involving substandard fertilisers.

Unhappy with the reply, Congress MLAs entered the well of the House and raised slogans. As per Assembly rules, members entering the well were suspended, following which the Opposition again walked out and protested outside the House.

Questions Raised on Drinking Water Supply

The Assembly also discussed drinking water infrastructure in Raipur under the AMRUT Mission and the Jal Jeevan Mission.

BJP MLA Ajay Chandrakar sought details on the city's water supply network, expenditure on tanker services and the progress of the AMRUT project.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao informed the House that the AMRUT Mission, launched in 2016 and completed in 2025, was implemented at a cost of ₹427.37 crore. He said 20 wards currently receive full water supply, while 25 wards have partial coverage, adding that the scheme was never designed to provide 24x7 drinking water services.

Political Significance

Although the BJP enjoys a comfortable majority with 54 MLAs against the Congress' 35 legislators, the no-confidence motion is expected to provide the Opposition an opportunity to question the government's performance on issues including law and order, farmers' welfare, unemployment, alleged corruption and administrative decisions.

The ruling BJP, meanwhile, is expected to defend its governance record and development initiatives during the debate.

The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly witnessed repeated disruptions on Monday as the Opposition Congress raised the issue of alleged irregularities in Ram Temple donations, leading to heated exchanges with the ruling BJP and the eventual adjournment of the House until Tuesday.

As soon as the Monsoon Session commenced, Leader of Opposition Dr Charan Das Mahant and Congress legislators entered the Assembly carrying posters alleging theft of donations collected for the Ram Temple. The Opposition accused those responsible of betraying the faith of devotees and demanded discussion on the issue.

Adjournment Motion Rejected

Responding to the Opposition's demand, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ajay Chandrakar said the matter did not fall within the jurisdiction of the Chhattisgarh Assembly or the state government.

Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh rejected the adjournment motion, stating that the issue was not related to the state's legislative domain.

The rejection triggered loud sloganeering from Congress members, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings briefly. Even after the House reconvened, protests continued, resulting in repeated interruptions before the Assembly was finally adjourned for the day.

Bhupesh Baghel Targets BJP

During the protest, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel alleged that people from Chhattisgarh had also contributed donations for the construction of the Ram Temple.

He claimed that devotees had donated money in good faith but alleged that the funds had been misappropriated, accusing those responsible of betraying public trust.

The ruling BJP rejected the allegations, maintaining that the matter was already being dealt with through appropriate legal and investigative processes.

Education Issues Raised During Question Hour

Before the House was disrupted, Question Hour focused on higher education and teacher training institutions in the state.

BJP MLA Lata Usendi raised concerns over the absence of BEd and DEd courses at Shaheed Mahendra Karma University in Kondagaon and sought clarification regarding implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Replying to the questions, Higher Education Minister Tank Ram Verma said the National Education Policy has already been implemented across universities and colleges in the state.

He also informed the House that a task force has been constituted to examine proposals for starting BEd and DEd programmes in 13 colleges across Chhattisgarh.

Tribute to Teejan Bai

The Assembly proceedings began with members paying tribute to Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai, the renowned Pandavani exponent who passed away recently.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai remembered her contribution in taking Chhattisgarh's traditional folk art to global audiences and described her legacy as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Leader of Opposition Dr Charan Das Mahant also paid tribute, recalling her immense contribution to preserving the state's cultural heritage. As a mark of respect, the House observed condolences and suspended proceedings for five minutes.

Congress to Move No-Confidence Motion

The political confrontation is expected to continue on Tuesday when the Congress plans to move a no-confidence motion against the BJP government.

Although the ruling BJP enjoys a clear majority in the Assembly, the Opposition is expected to use the debate to raise issues related to governance, law and order, farmers' concerns and other public matters.

The discussion is likely to witness sharp exchanges between Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and senior Congress leaders during the remaining days of the Monsoon Session.

The Chhattisgarh government concluded its two-day 'Chintan Shivir 3.0', a high-level brainstorming session aimed at shaping the state's future development strategy, governance reforms and policy priorities. The retreat was held on July 4 and 5 under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

The cabinet-level programme brought together ministers and senior government officials to review the state's progress, assess the implementation of ongoing schemes and formulate a roadmap for achieving the vision of a developed Chhattisgarh.

The deliberations focused on improving administrative efficiency, accelerating development projects, strengthening public service delivery and ensuring transparent governance. Discussions also covered long-term planning, innovation in governance and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of government programmes.

According to officials, the brainstorming exercise was designed to encourage collaborative decision-making among cabinet ministers while identifying new approaches to address emerging developmental challenges. The retreat also provided an opportunity to review departmental performance and align future initiatives with the state's development goals.

Policy experts and subject specialists participated in various sessions, sharing insights on governance reforms, technology adoption, administrative innovation and sustainable development. Their recommendations are expected to assist the government in refining policies and improving implementation mechanisms.

The state government said the objective of Chintan Shivir 3.0 was to build a governance framework that is citizen-centric, transparent and result-oriented. Emphasis was also laid on enhancing coordination among departments and ensuring the timely execution of welfare and infrastructure projects.

Officials believe that the outcomes of the two-day retreat will help shape future policy decisions and strengthen the government's efforts to promote inclusive growth, economic development and efficient public administration across Chhattisgarh.

The recommendations emerging from the brainstorming sessions are expected to guide the government's administrative and developmental agenda in the coming months.

The Chhattisgarh government on Friday commenced its two-day 'Chintan Shivir 3.0' at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Raipur, bringing together Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, members of the state cabinet and subject experts from across the country to deliberate on governance reforms, administrative innovation and the state's long-term development strategy.

The annual retreat, being held on July 4 and 5, is aimed at reviewing the government's functioning while preparing a roadmap for improving governance through technology, institutional reforms and better coordination among departments.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who inaugurated the programme, said the objective of the exercise extends beyond policy discussions. According to him, effective governance requires continuous improvement in administrative systems and a work culture that remains transparent, accountable and responsive to public expectations.

Government officials said the retreat has been designed as a platform where policymakers can interact directly with experts from diverse fields and incorporate their recommendations into future policy decisions. The discussions are expected to help strengthen coordination between departments and improve the delivery of public services across the state.

Over the two-day programme, ministers and senior officials will participate in thematic sessions covering a wide range of subjects, including agriculture, rural development, industrial growth, investment promotion, tourism, sports, innovation, artificial intelligence, leadership development and institutional reforms.

Another key focus of the discussions will be strengthening governance through technology-driven solutions. The government intends to explore ways to make administrative processes faster, more transparent and citizen-centric by integrating digital tools into public service delivery.

Officials said the retreat will also examine methods to improve implementation of welfare schemes, enhance inter-departmental collaboration and identify administrative practices that can produce measurable outcomes for citizens.

Speaking about the initiative, the Chief Minister said good governance is not limited to launching welfare programmes but also involves adapting to changing times and continuously improving the quality of public administration. He added that the government is working towards creating an administrative culture that delivers efficient services while maintaining transparency and accountability.

The programme features several eminent speakers who will address ministers and senior bureaucrats on leadership, governance and sector-specific challenges.

On the opening day, spiritual leader and motivational speaker Gaur Gopal Das is scheduled to deliver a session on leadership and life values. Technology expert Abhay Karandikar will discuss emerging technologies and the future of governance, while agricultural economist Dr. Ramesh Chand will share insights on agriculture and rural economic development.

The second day's schedule will begin with a yoga session, followed by lectures from senior experts representing different sectors. Suman Billa will speak on tourism and the services sector, Shashank Mani Tripathi will address public policy and development, Olympic medallist Gagan Narang will share his perspectives on leadership and building a culture of excellence, while Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe will deliver a session on good governance and citizen-centric administration.

According to the state government, the retreat is intended to move beyond theoretical discussions by developing practical strategies that can strengthen governance across departments. Particular emphasis will be placed on administrative innovation, faster decision-making, improved coordination and wider use of technology to deliver government services more efficiently.

Now in its third consecutive year, the Chintan Shivir has become a key internal policy exercise for the Chhattisgarh government. The recommendations emerging from the two-day deliberations are expected to shape governance priorities and administrative reforms in the coming months as the state seeks to improve service delivery and accelerate development initiatives.

The rehabilitation dispute surrounding Chhattisgarh's Nakti village escalated on Friday as displaced residents, accompanied by Congress leaders and workers, staged a protest outside the Chief Minister's residence in Raipur. The demonstrators demanded compensation, restoration of their land, and withdrawal of criminal cases filed against villagers, warning the state government that they would intensify their agitation if their demands were not addressed within five days.

Security was tightened around the Chief Minister's residence as a large police contingent was deployed to prevent any breach of law and order. Protesters remained seated on the road for several hours and even ate meals at the protest site as a mark of defiance.

When police personnel reportedly asked them to vacate the area, villagers responded by saying that after losing their homes, they were now being prevented from even eating in public. The emotional scenes reflected growing resentment among families displaced following the recent demolition drive in Nakti village.

The latest demonstration comes just days after the affected residents surrounded the official residence of state minister O.P. Choudhary. Since the demolition, several families have continued to stay near the remains of their demolished houses despite heavy rain and muddy conditions. The villagers had earlier also staged protests outside the Raipur Collectorate, demanding relief and rehabilitation.

Villagers Seek Compensation, Land and Withdrawal of FIRs

During Friday's protest, the administration invited a delegation of ten women representatives to meet the Raipur Collector.

According to the protesters, they reiterated three key demands before the district administration:

• Restoration of their land or suitable rehabilitation.

• Adequate compensation for demolished houses.

• Withdrawal of police cases registered against affected villagers.

Officials assured the delegation that their demands would be forwarded to the state government for consideration. However, no immediate decision was announced.

The protesters subsequently dispersed after issuing a five-day ultimatum, warning that they would launch a larger statewide movement if no concrete action was taken.

Congress Warns of Statewide Protest

Congress leaders supporting the agitation accused the state government of ignoring the concerns of displaced families.

Party representatives said that if the administration failed to resolve the issue within the stipulated period, they would first approach the Governor seeking intervention. If that also failed to yield results, the Congress would consider calling for a Chhattisgarh bandh in support of the displaced villagers.

Demolition Followed Bulldozer Drive

The controversy stems from a demolition drive carried out three days earlier in Nakti village, where authorities used bulldozers to demolish around 85 houses.

According to the Housing Board, 77 individuals had allegedly encroached upon nearly 15 hectares of government land earmarked for development. Officials have maintained that rehabilitation measures, including allotment of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) housing, have been initiated for affected families. However, several displaced residents claim that many families are yet to receive alternative accommodation.

Political Row Deepens

The issue has generated political debate across party lines.

Reports indicate that two days before the demolition, villagers had met Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal, who allegedly assured them that no demolition would take place during the monsoon while discussions were underway to find a solution. Despite those assurances, the demolition was carried out on June 29, prompting criticism from local residents.

Adding to the controversy, BJP leader Devji Bhai Patel has written to Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, describing the demolition as harsh and urging the government to rehabilitate villagers at their original location. He suggested that the proposed MLA residential colony could instead be developed elsewhere, including in Nava Raipur.

An earlier letter written by MP Brijmohan Agrawal to the Chief Minister has also resurfaced on social media. In the correspondence, reportedly written nearly a year ago, the MP had expressed reservations over selecting Nakti village for the proposed MLA colony, arguing that evicting economically weaker families would not be appropriate from a humanitarian perspective.

Congress MLA Chaturi Nand has also urged the government to shift the proposed MLA housing project to available government land in Nava Raipur rather than displacing poor families. In her letter, she described the demolition as "inhuman" and maintained that public representatives should protect citizens' rights rather than benefit at their expense.

As political pressure mounts and displaced families continue their protests, the state government faces increasing scrutiny over its rehabilitation policy and handling of the Nakti village eviction.