Laud its Natural Beauty, Cultural Diversity and Warm Hospitality
Team News Riveting
Raipur, February 12
Describing Chhattisgarh as a state endowed with abundant natural resources, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday affirmed that his government is resolutely working to transform this land, flourishing with wealth and grain, into one that is more beautiful, prosperous, secure and developed.
Interacting warmly with a delegation of journalists from Sikkim who were on a study tour, at his official residence office here, Sai shared extensive insights about the state’s development journey. He welcomed the visiting journalists by presenting them with the traditional state ‘gamchha’ as a mark of respect and goodwill. The journalists expressed deep appreciation for his gracious hospitality and extended an invitation to him to visit Sikkim.
Sai noted that 44 per cent of Chhattisgarh’s geographical area is covered by forests and that 31 per cent of its population belongs to tribal communities. Through systematic collection and value addition of minor forest produce, tribal communities are steadily becoming economically empowered. In Jashpur district, women associated with self-help groups are producing and marketing goods under the brand name ‘Jashpure’, generating sustainable livelihoods.
He informed that the government is paying Rs 5,500 per standard bag for tendupatta collection and is also providing free footwear under the Charan Paduka Yojana.
Referring to Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, Shri Sai said the scheme was launched in 2005 to ease the financial burden of marriage on poor families. Recently, more than 6,000 couples were married under the scheme in a single event, which found a place in the Golden Book of World Records. Under the scheme, newly married couples receive financial assistance of Rs 35,000 along with material support worth Rs 15,000.
On the issue of Naxalism, the Chief Minister stated that under the decisive leadership and strong resolve of the Central Government, Naxalism in the state is now in its final phase. Under the state’s attractive rehabilitation policy, surrendered Naxals are provided assistance of Rs 50,000 and a monthly support of Rs 10,000 for three years. So far, more than 2,500 Naxals have surrendered. Efforts are also being made to link them with employment through skill training programmes. He cited the successful operation of the ‘Bastar Pandum’ café in Jagdalpur by surrendered Naxals as a powerful example of rehabilitation in action.
Sai further stated that under ‘Niyad Nella Nar’ scheme, 17 government schemes have been extended to remote areas, strengthening access to essential services such as roads, electricity, drinking water, ration distribution, healthcare and education. Naxal-affected regions are now rapidly integrating with the mainstream of development, he said.
Highlighting tourism potential of the state, Sai said that Chhattisgarh is endowed with natural splendour. Chitrakote Waterfall, Kutumsar Caves, the forests of Abujhmad and Dhudmaras are among the state’s distinctive attractions. To promote rural tourism, homestays have been granted the status of an industry, and financial aid is being provided to villagers for constructing up to five rooms.
On healthcare and industrial development, he informed that a 100-acre MediCity is being developed in Nava Raipur to provide affordable healthcare services to the lower-income sections. Referring to the state’s new industrial policy, he said it has attracted investment proposals worth nearly Rs 8 lakh crore. The establishment of ‘Chitrotpala Film City’ will further boost the film industry in the state.
“Chhattisgarh Made Us Proud to Be Indian” – Ms Archana Pradhan
Ms Archana Pradhan, a journalist from Sikkim, said that Chhattisgarh reflects the true spirit of ‘Make in India’. She noted that the Bhilai Steel Plant, which manufactures railway tracks and various steel products, stands as a testament to the state’s industrial strength. The delegation had the opportunity to closely observe industrial units in the state. We gained a deeper understanding of Chhattisgarh’s significant contribution to national development, She said.
Sikkim Journalists Mesmerized by the Magnificence of Chhattisgarh
After their meeting with the Chief Minister, the visiting journalists remarked that Chhattisgarh’s natural beauty, cultural diversity and the warmth of its people left a lasting impression on them. They shared their experiences of local cuisine and rich cultural heritage encountered during the visit.
During their five-day tour, the delegation visited the Bhilai Steel Plant, Gevra Open Mines, Nava Raipur and the Tribal Museum. They said they were carrying back cherished memories of Chhattisgarh that would remain with them for a lifetime. The journalists appreciated the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, the announcements made in the interest of farmers, the clean environment here and the rehabilitation policy.
Chief Minister Presented with Sikkim’s Traditional ‘Thangka’
The delegation presented the Chief Minister with a ‘Thangka’ painting, a revered symbol of Sikkim’s religious and cultural heritage. Expressing gratitude, Shri Sai described the gift as a symbol of affection and cultural exchange.
The journalists explained that a Thangka painting is a sacred art form created on cotton or silk fabric, depicting Buddhist deities, mandalas and scenes from the life of the Buddha. This handcrafted artwork represents Sikkim’s religious, spiritual and cultural identity. Often displayed in homes to invoke positivity, Thangkas can be rolled and carried easily, making them a meaningful and portable souvenir. For the people of Sikkim, they embody deep faith and devotion.
On the occasion, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor Pankaj Jha, Advisor R Krishna Das, Press Officer Alok Singh, Assistant Director, Assistant Director PIB Gangtok Manas Pratim Sharma, Assistant Director PIB Raipur Sudeepto Kar, Purushottam Jha and Sarad Basnet were present.
The visiting journalists included Benu Prakash Tiwari, Vikas Kshetri, Homanath Dabri, Ishwar, Ms Archana Pradhan, Ms Anushila Sharma, Prakash Adhikari, Lalit Dahal, Vinod Tamang, Mohan Kumar Karki and Nar Bahadur Kshetri.
