Chief Minister participated in Pandit Madhavrao Sapre Smriti Mahotsav

Chief Minister honoured journalists and writers in the Mahotsav

Chief Minister inaugurated the newly constructed Press Club

Chief Minister announced 57 development works worth Rs. 44.61 crore

Raipur TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel mentioned the region of Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi in Chhattisgarh as the birthplace of journalism and literature, making it a sacred land for writers and journalists. This region holds historical significance as the birthplace of the first Hindi literature story in Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister expressed his delight that Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi became a new district during his tenure. He made these remarks during the 152nd birth anniversary celebrations of Pandit Madhav Rao Sapre, held at the GPM district headquarters on Monday. Various events were held at the Mahotsav, which included a lecture and a seminar organised in collaboration with Shrikant Verma Peeth Bilaspur and the district administration.

During the event, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel highlighted the rich history of Pendra City. He mentioned that the ‘Chhattisgarh Mitra’ newspaper was first published in 1900, marking the beginning of journalism in the region. It is also the birthplace of the first Hindi story in Chhattisgarh. He emphasised that journalism and literature have thrived in this area, making it a significant hub for creative endeavours. He further noted that the region's pleasant climate attracted Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore and his wife, who visited this region for health benefits. Under the current state government, the demands of the people in this region have been addressed. Additionally, six new districts, including Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi, were established in the state in recent times. This expansion also led to the formation of 19 new subdivisions and 83 new tehsils. Most of the newly formed districts are inhabited by marginalised communities that have long been deprived of their rights and justice. The primary objective of establishing these new districts is to ensure equitable access to justice for these communities.

During the event, Chief Minister Mr.Bhupesh Baghel bestowed honours upon esteemed writers from various regions of the state and the country, presenting them with mementos. District In-charge and Revenue Minister Mr.Jaisingh Agrawal also highlighted the development works that have been carried out in the district under the Chief Minister's leadership. Through such gatherings, Chhattisgarh is gaining new recognition in the intellectual realm. Renowned writers, including Mr.Ravi Bhushan from Ranchi, Mr.Diwakar Muktibodh from Raipur, Mr.Sudeep Thakur from New Delhi, and Mr. Achyutanand Mishra from Kerala, were among the distinguished participants in the Late Pandit Madhavrao Sapre Smriti Mahotsav, showcasing the literary talent of their respective regions.

 Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel reached the Pendra Press Club, where he inaugurated the press club building and reading room, constructed at a cost of Rs. 50 lakh

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel reached the Pendra Press Club, where he inaugurated the press club building and reading room, constructed at a cost of Rs. 50 lakh. The building will cater to the needs of local journalists. School students and competitive exam aspirants will benefit from the reading room. The Chief Minister also unveiled the statue of the Late Pt. Madhavrao Sapre. The statue, built at a cost of Rs. 2 lakh, was unveiled on Sapre Ji's 152nd birth anniversary today. The Pandit Madhavrao Sapre Memorial Festival is also being organized on this occasion. Eminent litterateurs and senior journalists from the country and the state are also attending the festival.

 Sages and saints from all over the country participated in the Sadguru Kabir Memorial Festival

Raipur, TNINS 

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel participated in the Sadguru Kabir Memorial Festival held at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Auditorium of Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Hospital today. Shri Baghel said that he is delighted to see so many saints together in this program. Saint Kabir and his words reside in the hearts of people in Chhattisgarh. He announced the provision of Rs. 5 lakh each to Saint Kabir Ashrams that have not received the grant yet.  

The Chief Minister said that the majority of the sages and saints of the world were born in India. Saints play a major role in our society as they offer solutions to the current problems plaguing it. Different saints have different views and opinions. If someone is physically ill, they visit a doctor or Hakim for treatment. However, when a person is suffering from the mind, then the solution is provided by the saints and gurus. 

He added that when children grow up, the quest for happiness takes them from the 12th standard to college, job, family, and finally the crematorium. Even then, the person does not achieve happiness. In today's time, no one is happy, and everyone's life is a search for happiness. People today want good food, new clothes, and modern luxuries. 

The Chief Minister also stated that we don't have Saint Kabir amongst us today, but those who take his message forward can walk on his path in the company of saints. We should inculcate the thoughts of saints in our lives to live happily. People look for happiness outside, but happiness resides within us. 

The festival was organized by the Sadguru Kabir World Peace Mission, Chhattisgarh Saint Organization. Padma Shri Madan Singh Chauhan performed Bhajans at the festival. Former MLA Shri Gurmukh Singh Hora attended the festival as a guest. Saints from all over the country participated in the Saint Kabir Memorial Festival. They included Saint Shri Nishtha Saheb from Barabanki (U.P.), Saint Shri Sudhakar Shastri from Kharsiya, Acharya Shri Mangal Saheb from Kabirmath Nadiya, Mahant Ramsundar Das from Dudhadhari Math, Damakheda Tradition Representative Shri Ravikar Saheb, Jagu Saheb Tradition Representative Saints, Dayanam Saheb Tradition Representative Saints, and the saints of Sadguru Kabir World Peace Mission.

 152 graduates and 55 postgraduate students received degrees at the convocation in the presence of dignitaries

 TNINS 

Patwaris in Chhattisgarh have called off their strike and finally returned to work. Chief Minister Mr. Baghel has directed them to clear the backlog created due to the strike as soon as possible. After ending the strike on Thursday night, the office bearers of the Patwari Sangh met Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel at his residence.

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel has given them strict instructions to promptly complete the pending works concerning students and youth. It is noteworthy that the government is offering a large number of job opportunities, for which the youngsters of the state are excited. Moving further in this direction, the Government of Chhattisgarh is creating new dimensions in the field of higher education as well. Considering these circumstances and on the special initiative of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, the Patwaris have called off the strike.

Chief Minister Mr. Baghel has instructed the Patwaris to complete the work of public service on priority. Chief Minister has also directed the Chief Secretary to ensure completion of the tasks that were withheld due to the Patwaris' strike.

It is notable that the Patwari unions in the state were on an indefinite strike since May 15 for their various demands, which was causing major inconvenience to the common people of the state. On the other hand, Supreme Court's instructions on reservation has opened a way for recruitment on government posts in the state, and on the instructions of the Chief Minister, recruitment in all the departments of Chhattisgarh is being conducted on a large scale on motion mode. And Patwaris have an important role in issuing the documents required for the recruitment such as caste, income, and domicile certificates.

With Patwaris being on strike, students were facing difficulty in getting their necessary documents like caste, domicile and income certificates issued for the new academic session. Farmers, common people, youngsters, students, everyone was getting affected due to this strike, even the urgent services related to the revenue department were hindered. Considering the circumstances, Chief Minister Mr. Baghel took a special initiative and ended the strike of Patwaris.

 Officials of Raipur Forest Division filed an FIR against the misleading video

Mr.Akbar urges participants to beware of misleading rumours in the recruitment process

Raipur  TNINS 

The Forest Department has issued a warning to candidates about a misleading video circulating on social media regarding recruitment in their department. They assure participants that the selection process for the Forest Guard position is being carried out in a fair and transparent manner. After the physical test, candidates will undergo a written test administered by VYAPAM. The final selection list of forest guards will be based on the examination results.

Forest Minister Mr. Mohammad Akbar has directed the concerned officials to take strict action against the misleading news circulating on social media regarding Forest Guard recruitment. Following his instructions, the range officer of Forest Division Raipur has filed an FIR at Telibandha Police Station, Raipur in this regard. The Forest Department has urged candidates not to be influenced by misleading rumours or the agenda of anti-social elements. They have also encouraged individuals to report any such misleading information to the relevant police station promptly. A misleading video has been circulating on social media since June 15, 2023, in which Mangalam Services, operating in Shubham Corporate Complex, was demanding money in lieu of recruiting forest guards in the forest department.

 NEET UG 2023: Shaurya was successful in the first attempt in the exam

Shaurya Rathore won the CBSE 12th exam

TNINS

NEET UG 2023: Janjgir resident Ku. Shaurya Rathore has made the family and the Rathore community proud by scoring 575/720 marks in the first attempt itself in the NEET UG 2023 exam. Shaurya further wants to serve humanity by becoming a doctor.

meritorious student shaurya rathore twelfth

Made the Rathore family proud by securing 93 percent marks in CBSE's 12th examination. Shaurya Rathore is the daughter of Joint Director Dhananjay Rathore, posted in Directorate of Public Relations, Raipur. His mother Roshni Rathore is working as a Compier in All India Radio, Raipur. Shaurya's sister Saumya is studying law from Maharashtra (Mumbai). Shaurya has been a brilliant student since the beginning.

Shaurya Rathore has given the credit of this achievement to the guidance of elders, blessings and affection of his family members, guidance of teachers. Shaurya has been congratulated by family members, relatives, friends and the people of the society on his achievement and wishes for his bright future.

 500 farmers of Telangana met Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, presented him traditional 'Gongdi'

Farmers from Telangana shared their experiences with Chief Minister after visiting the Gauthans of Chhattisgar

TNINS 

After observing and perusing the development model of Chhattisgarh, farmers of Telangana lauded the farmer-friendly policies and schemes being implemented in Chhattisgarh. 500 farmers from different districts of Telangana state visited Durg and Rajnandgaon districts, where they had a closer look at the ground implementation of various pro-farmer schemes. After the tour, they shared their experiences with Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel at his residence this morning. Representatives of the farmer delegation from Telangana welcomed and felicitated the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh by adorning him with 'Gongdi' and presenting him a model of a bullock cart.

The delegation of farmers from Telangana visited Amlidih Gauthan of Dongargaon development block in Rajnandgaon district and Pulgaon Gauthan of Durg district. They interacted with the farmers, labourers and cow herders of Chhattisgarh and took detailed information about the schemes. Appreciating the sincere efforts of Chhattisgarh Government, representative of the Telangana farmer delegation Mr. Sharad Kumar said that Chhattisgarh Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, has made Mahatma Gandhi's vision of Gram Swaraj a reality. Farmers here are flourishing due to the positive steps taken by the government, which includes better price for paddy, procurement of cow dung, promoting organic farming etc. Mr. Sharad Kumar said that this 'pro-farmer model' of 'Bhupesh Sarkar' should be implemented across the country. He further said that the farmer friendly schemes are not only strengthening the farmers but also providing better livelihood opportunities, and we have come here from Telangana to study this model.

    Mr. M. Shiva Veer Reddy, a farmer from Telangana said that Chhattisgarh Government is taking significant steps for welfare of the farmers. Dung procurement scheme of Mr. Bhupesh Baghel is being talked about across the country. Mr. Swami said that I practice animal husbandry myself, and if the schemes like yours were being implemented in our state, I would have praticed it on even larger scale. Mr. Swami said that the schemes being run in Chhattisgarh in the interest of Gauthan, animal husbandry and farmers should be publicized in the entire country through the media so that farmers of other states may also learn about these innovations.

In his address to the program, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel said that our government is dedicated to bring joy and prosperity in the lives of farmers. He said that during the tenure of the previous government, only 12 lakh farmers used to sell paddy in primary cooperative societies, but today more than 23 lakh farmers are selling paddy in societies and money is getting deposited in their accounts immediately. Chief Minister said that so far more than 26 lakh farmers have been benefited from Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana, MSP of Paddy in Chhattisgarh is the highest in the country, and input subsidy has been a game-changer in the field of agriculture. Chief Minister Mr. Baghel said that this year 107 lakh metric tons of paddy has been procured from 23.5 lakh farmers. Till date, we were procuring paddy from farmers at the rate of 15 quintals per acre, but now we will be procuring 20 quintals per acre paddy on the support price. Our government is procuring 67 types of minor forest produce. We have made systematic arrangements for value addition and sale of these forest produce based products through C Mart. Dung procurement scheme has opened a whole new dimension of livelihood opportunities for people here. 

Chief Minister said that we have written a letter to the Prime Minister seeking permission to produce ethanol from paddy. Responding to the question regarding ongoing schemes for tribals in the state, the Chief Minister said that our government is sensitive towards the interests of tribals and forest dwellers. With the objective to bring prosperity in the lives of tribals, we are procuring minor forest produce at support price, conducting forest produce based livelihood activity and providing them the forest rights lease. Chief Minister Mr. Baghel said that individual forest right certificates have been given to 5 lakh farmers through 'Van Adhikar Patta Yojana', similarly community forest rights have been given to tribals and eligible beneficiaries on more than 18 lakh hectares of land. This also includes ensuring of forest resource rights. Chief Minister also gave detailed information about the loan waiver, the system of paddy procurement at support price, the Bijli Bill Half Yojana, the exemption of electricity to farmers on irrigation pumps up to 5 horse power, the scheme to give the status of agriculture to fisheries and lac cultivation. 

    On this occasion, Mr. Girish Dewangan, Chairman, Mineral Development Corporation, Mr. Vinod Verma, Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr. Nawaz Khan, Chairman, District Central Cooperative Bank Rajnandgaon, Mr. Rajendra Sahu, Chairman, District Central Cooperative Bank Durg, Mr. Tenmar Malanna, Leader of Telangana Farmers' Delegation were also present on the occasion.

 Chief Minister Mr.Bhupesh Baghel graces the swearing-in ceremony of Satnami Samaj office bearers*

 Raipur  TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr.Bhupesh Baghel announced the establishment of a model of Jait Khams in every development block headquarters. He was addressing the people at the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected office bearers of Satnami Samaj. The Chief Minister emphasised that the Chhattisgarh Government is dedicated to serving the people by following the path guided by saints and reviving cultural traditions.

Addressing the program, the Chief Minister highlighted the continued relevance of Baba Guru Ghasidas Ji's teachings. He emphasized the importance of following the path shown by Baba Guru Ghasidas Ji to achieve progress in life. The Chief Minister also provided detailed information about various government schemes, urging members of the Satnami community to actively participate and avail the benefits. Additionally, he administered the oath to newly elected office bearers of the tehsil-level Satnami Samaj and distributed certificates to them. The event was attended by local public representatives, notable individuals, and a large gathering of people.

 High-powered committee meeting for NABARD chaired by Chief Secretary concludes

Raipur TNINS 

Chief Secretary Mr. Amitabh Jain chaired a high-powered meeting at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan and reviewed the progress of reimbursement and loan proposals for the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) under NABARD. The meeting focused on approving loan and reimbursement claims for the fiscal year 2022–23, as well as setting targets for loan proposals and reimbursement for the upcoming fiscal year 2023–24.

During the meeting, the sanctioned loan projects under various departments of the state government, such as agriculture, irrigation, public health engineering, public works, and food, were comprehensively reviewed. Urgent action was emphasised for the pending loan proposals under the RIDF facilitated by NABARD. The meeting, conducted via video conferencing, was attended by key officials from NABARD as well as officials from the Finance Department, Public Health Engineering Department, and Public Works Department. The Secretary of Finance Department, Mr. Ankit Anand, the Secretary of Public Health Engineering Department, Dr. S. Bharathidasan, and the Secretary of Public Works Department, Mr. Bhuvanesh Yadav, were present during the meeting.

 In accordance with the Chief Minister’s instructions, the period of summer vacations has been extended from 16 June to 25 JuneSchool Education Department has issued an order

Raipur, TNINS 

The School Education Department of the Chhattisgarh Government has issued an order from the Ministry in compliance with Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel’s instructions to extend summer vacations to protect schoolchildren from the intense heat and heat waves. The summer vacation has been extended from 16 June to 25 June. Schools will commence on 26 June.

 According to the order issued by the School Education Department, given the intense heat and heat wave prevalent in the state, the state government has extended summer vacation from 16 June 2023 to 25 June 2023. Schools in the state will reopen on 26 June 2023.

 Forest Department has authorized the distribution of incentive wages amounting to Rs 163.63 crore for the year 2021 and Rs 260.49 crore for the year 2022

TNINS 

The Department of Forest and Climate Change has issued orders for the distribution of incentive wages amounting to Rs 424.11 crore to the collectors of tendu leaves. As part of this, incentive wages totalling Rs 163.62 crore will be distributed to 9 lakh 49 thousand 944 collectors from 733 societies who were profitable in the year 2021. Similarly, for the year 2022, incentive wages of Rs 260.49 crore will be distributed to 8 lakh 61 thousand 772 collectors from 661 profitable societies.

The aforementioned information was provided by Shri Anil Kumar Rai, Managing Director of the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce (Trading & Development) Co-operative Federation Limited. It is worth mentioning that the Chhattisgarh Government distributes the profit earned from the trade of tendu leaves as incentive wages to the collector of tendu leaves. Additionally, Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has increased the tendu leaf collection rate, and several schemes are being implemented for the welfare of the collectors.

TNINS 

When asked about his government job in Surguja, Prakash Pando smiles and responds, "I never thought I would be able to secure a government job, but thanks to the efforts of Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel, I, along with other youth from the Pando tribal community, have been employed. This has sparked tremendous enthusiasm within our community and I am hopeful that our community will now progress in the field of education and we will all make substantial contributions to it. I express my heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister for personally handing me the appointment letter for the government job."

Suchita Pando has completed her 12th standard and is currently pursuing B.Sc. in Nursing. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel to provide jobs for special backward tribes and castes. Under this, she has been employed as an assistant teacher, and she is very happy. She said that she belongs to an impoverished family and her parents are engaged in farming. She has now received a job because of the Chief Minister's initiative. She has expressed her gratitude to the Chief Minister for the same.

 Pragati Pando has been appointed to the post of assistant teacher. She is a resident of Badhnijhariya village, Ambikapur block. She is delighted upon receiving a government job. In the course of a discussion, she said that she had never thought that she would get a government job, but it has become possible because of the special initiative of the Chief Minister to provide employment to people belonging to special backward tribes. She has expressed her gratitude to the Chief Minister. She added that she will work for her community and will be committed to bringing the people of her community into the mainstream.

 Ramayana group from Cambodia, Indonesia, and 12 Indian states will present devotional renditions of Lord Shri Ram's story

The festival will witness the diverse national and global interpretations of Lord Shri Ram's story

Esteemed Hindi poet Kumar Vishwas will mesmerize the audience and extol the glory of Lord Shri Ram with 'Apne-Apne Ram'

Ramlila Maidan of Raigarh will reverberate with the unwavering sentiment of Lord Shri Ram's story

Renowned folk singer Mr. Dilip Shadangi and his team will recite the Hanuman Chalisa in the festival

Raipur, TNINS 

Chhattisgarh is set to host its first-ever grand 'National Ramayana Festival,' a momentous event to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel on June 1 at 3 pm, will take place at the historic Ramlila Maidan in Raigarh. Ramayana groups from Cambodia, Indonesia, and 12 Indian states will present devotional renditions of Lord Shri Ram's story, showcasing the diverse national and global interpretations of Lord Shri Ram's story. The festival will feature a daily competition for 3 days in a row with the theme of Ramayana's 'Aranya Kand', where various participating Ramayana Mandali will vie for the 'Best Ramayana Mandali'. Additionally, renowned artists from across the country will grace the event with their musical performances during the 'Bhajan Sandhya'. The Ramlila Maidan of Raigarh will reverberate with the unwavering sentiment of Lord Shri Ram's story for three days. Ramayana Mandali from various states including Kerala, Karnataka, Odisha, Assam, Goa, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh are enthusiastically participating in this national festival. On the concluding day, esteemed Hindi poet Kumar Vishwas will mesmerize the audience with his special performance, 'Apne-Apne Ram,' extolling the glory of Lord Shri Ram.

At the inauguration of the National Ramayana Festival, there will be a collective chanting of Hanuman Chalisa to be conducted by Pandits, Purohits, and local artists. Following this, a march past is to be conducted by foreign and interstate artists. Culture Minister Mr. Amarjit Bhagat will preside over the ceremony. School Education Minister and in-charge of Raigarh district Dr. Premsai Singh Tekam, Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Mr. Umesh Patel, MLA Mr. Laaljit Singh Rathia, Mr. Prakash Nayak, Mr. Chakradhar Singh, President of Raigarh District Panchayat Mr. Nirakar Patel, Mayor of Raigarh Municipal Corporation Mrs. Janki Katju will grace the event as a special guest.

Day 1 highlights: Performance by Cambodia's Ramayana group

Day 1 of the National Ramayana Festival will have a captivating lineup of performances. The highlight of the day will be a performance by the Cambodian Ramayana group. The renowned devotional singer Devesh Sharma will perform at the event from 2 pm to 3 pm. The excitement will be continued with a performance by the Cambodian group from 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm. Following this, an inter-state Ramayana Mandali competition based on the 'Aranya Kand' will commence at 5:15 pm, featuring teams from Uttarakhand, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh. Renowned national artists will then take the stage for soul-stirring bhajan presentations. Sanmukh Priya, known for her exceptional talent on Indian Idol, will captivate the audience from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. The enchanting evening will conclude with a performance by esteemed national artist Sharad Sharma (a contestant of Sa Re Ga Ma )from 9:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Day 1 of the National Ramayana Festival promises a blend of cultural diversity, melodious tunes, and fierce competition, setting the stage for an extraordinary celebration of this festival.

 Day 2 highlights: Performance by Baba Hansraj Raghuvanshi and Lakhbir Singh Lakkha

Day 2 of the National Ramayana Festival will feature captivating performances by renowned artists. The program, commencing at 2:00 pm, will have Culture Minister Mr. Amarjit Bhagat as the Chief Guest, with School Education Minister Dr. Premsai Singh Tekam presiding over the event. Following this, an inter-state Ramayana Mandali competition based on the 'Aranya Kand' will commence at 2:30 pm, featuring teams from eight states including Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Odisha, Himachal Pradesh, Goa, and Chhattisgarh. Renowned national artists Baba Hansraj Raghuvanshi will take the stage for an enchanting Bhajan Sandhya from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Following this, the evening will conclude with the mesmerizing performance of Bhanjan Sandhya by devotional singer Lakhbir Singh Lakkha from 9:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

Day 3 highlight: Performance by Indonesian Ramayana group

The third and final day of the National Ramayana Festival will culminate with a spectacular closing ceremony, under the esteemed presence of Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel. Culture Minister Amarjeet Bhagat will preside over the program, marking the grand finale of this cultural extravaganza. The day will commence with an exciting competition based on Aranya Kand from 2 pm to 6 pm, featuring teams from four states: Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh. At 6 pm, the Cambodian group will deliver a captivating performance, adding a unique international flavor to the event.

Following this, the Kelo Maha-aarti will be carried from 6:30 pm to 7 pm, in which 'deepdan' will be carried out by the SHG's women using the diya (lamps) made from cow dung. The stage program will commence at 7 pm with a collective chanting of Hanuman Chalisa.

The highlight of the closing ceremony, taking place from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm, will be the distribution of prizes to the winning teams and the recognition of foreign artists and competition judges. Following this, the next phase of the event will feature performances by the winning teams and foreign artists, including an enthralling presentation by the Indonesian group from 8:30 pm to 9 pm. The Bhajan Sandhya will be a melodious affair, with renowned national artist Maithili Thakur captivating the audience from 9:00 pm to 09:30 pm. The evening will conclude with the highly anticipated 'Apne Apne Ram' performance by esteemed national artist Kumar Vishwas from 9:30 pm to 10:00 pm.

Renowned folk singer Mr. Dilip Shadangi and his team will recite the Hanuman Chalisa on all three days of the festival. Additionally, each evening will feature a Bhajan Sandhya with acclaimed artists from across the country, offering devotional performances to the audience.

 "I will be even happier when you have employment in your hands, rather than just receiving unemployment allowance", says Shri Bhupesh Baghel

Over 1.05 lakh beneficiaries received an allowance of Rs 32.35 crore

Unemployment allowance alleviates financial burden on unemployed youth

Raipur TNINS 

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel said, "You are receiving assistance through the unemployment allowance scheme, but I would be even happier if you had employment in your hands. We are continuously releasing vacancies for government jobs while also focusing on skill development. The unemployment allowance is just a small contribution that can help you achieve your goals." He was addressing the youth while releasing the second installment of the unemployment allowance today.

Chief Minister virtually transferred an amount of Rs 32 crore 35 lakh 25 thousand to the accounts of one lakh 5 thousand 395 beneficiaries of the Unemployment Allowance Scheme during a programme organized at his residence office here today. This includes a total of 66,185 beneficiaries who received the second installment, totaling Rs 16 crore 54 lakh 62 thousand 500. Additionally, an amount of Rs 12.75 crore was disbursed to 24,015 beneficiaries who had applied until April 30 this year as an installment covering the months of April and May. Similarly, an amount of Rs 3 crore 79 lakh 87 thousand 500 was released as the first installment to 15,195 beneficiaries who had applied in May 2023. Overall, a total amount of Rs 48 crore 89 lakh 87 thousand 500 has been disbursed as the first and second installments to the beneficiaries of the Unemployment Allowance Scheme.

Addressing the programme, Chief Minister Shri Baghel said "During the distribution of the first installment of the unemployment allowance in the previous programme, I had made a commitment that soon after the restrictions are lifted, newspapers will be filled with job advertisements, and today we have fulfilled our promise. Presently, advertisements for ongoing recruitments are being issued in various departments."

He emphasized that our society comprises individuals from all sections. Some work as laborers, some are engaged in agriculture, and others are involved in small businesses. "It is important to note that the economic circumstances of these families vary. The youth from such families feel that although their parents have provided them with education, they still depend on their parents for financial support. For these young individuals, the unemployment allowance of Rs 2500 provides significant financial assistance. This amount aids them in purchasing books for competitive exams and other similar activities. Moreover, the state government has waived examination fees for competitive exams like Vyapam and PSC for the benefit of the youth of the state, thereby alleviating the financial burden on these families", he said.

Chief Minister mentioned that the state government is actively providing skill training to the youth, readying them for both self-employment and job opportunities. New employment avenues are being created in Rural Industrial Parks (RIPA) through the establishment of small-scale cottage industries. The state government has implemented various initiatives to enhance employment and self-employment prospects. These initiatives encompass schemes like Suraji Gaon Yojana, Godhan NYAY Yojana, and RIPA Yojana, as well as the establishment of agriculture and forest-based industries, processing and value addition of agricultural and minor forest produce, setting up of C-marts, and the introduction of job-oriented school education. Consequently, Chhattisgarh has the lowest unemployment rate in the country today. The government's commitment is to ensure that Chhattisgarh continues to maintain this distinction in the future as well.

Technical Education Minister Shri Umesh Patel stated that Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel had made a commitment to provide an unemployment allowance to the youth, and he has successfully fulfilled that commitment. He further highlighted that effective financial management by the Chief Minister has played a crucial role in fulfilling commitments made to the public.

Skill Development and Technical Education Principal Secretary Dr. Alok Shukla delivered a welcome speech in which he announced the commencement of skill training for 1,701 youth receiving unemployment allowance, across 33 institutions including Livelihood Colleges. He further informed that the recruitment process for 22,154 positions in various departments has begun, with appointment orders already issued for 972 positions.

Dr. Shukla also highlighted that the previous government had disbursed about Rs 99 crore as an unemployment allowance over a period of 14 years. However, in the current period, a total amount of Rs 48.89 crore has already been paid in two installments.

Director of Employment and Training Shri Awanish Sharan provided statistics on the recipients of unemployment benefits, stating that 39 per cent of them are women, 61 per cent are men, 83 per cent are from rural areas, and 17 per cent are from urban areas. Expressing his gratitude, Technical Education and Skill Development Secretary Shri Topeshwar Verma thanked the attendees for their presence.

During the programme, the participants present at the Chief Minister's residence and the beneficiaries connected through video conferencing from various districts expressed their heartfelt gratitude towards Chief Minister Shri Baghel for launching this scheme.

Technical Education Minister Shri Umesh Patel, School Education Minister Dr. Premsai Singh Tekam, Chief Minister's Advisor Shri Pradeep Sharma, Skill Development and Technical Education Principal Secretary Dr. Alok Shukla, Technical Education Secretary Shri Topeshwar Verma, Skill Development Secretary Smt. Shammi Abidi, Director of Employment and Training Shri Awanish Sharan were also present.

 Women SHGs associated with Sawantpur village Gauthan earn Rs 4.22 lakh selling vermicompost and supercompost

TNINS 

Gauthans, operating under the ambitious 'Suraji Gaon Yojana' of the Chhattisgarh Government, have emerged as employment hubs for women associated with self-help groups. These women are embarking on a path towards self-reliance by engaging in various income-generating activities within the Gauthans, thereby bringing about a significant transformation in their lives.

Women associated with the Indira Women Self-Help Group and Bharat Vahini Self-Help Group are actively participating in the production of vermicompost and super compost from the cow dung procured under the state government's ambitious Godhan NYAY Yojana in the Sawantpur village Gauthan, falling under the Lormi Development Block of Mungeli district.

Since the inception of the Godhan NYAY Yojana, the group has produced 621.85 quintals of vermicompost, of which 538 quintals have been sold. Additionally, they have manufactured 318 quintals of super compost, with 71 quintals already sold. As a result, the women in the group have earned a total income of about Rs 4.22 lakh.

It is worth mentioning that the ambitious 'Suraji Gaon Yojana', implemented by Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel, aims to strengthen the rural economy and provide employment and self-employment opportunities to rural residents. Under this initiative, various livelihood activities are being conducted in the state-run Gauthans. Through their association with these Gauthans, women associated with the self-help groups are becoming financially empowered and self-reliant.

Vimla Didi organized her son's wedding ceremony and got her treatment done with her earnings from the Gauthan

 Women of Maa Ambe group have earned by  a net profit of Rs 9 lakh by joining fencing pole construction work in Chervapara Gauthan

TNINS 

 The women of self-help group in gram panchayat Cherwapara of Baikunthpur block in Koriya district are making great strides on the path of success by joining Narva, Garuva, Ghurva Bari scheme of the government. Through these schemes, they got employment and self-employment opportunities in the village itself. Today these women are making their dreams come true by conducting many livelihood activities in gauthan.  Five women of Maa Ambe group are engaged in making fencing poles at the Multiactivity Center of Gauthan in Chervapara.

 In the last 3 years, women have manufactured more than 8 thousand fencing poles. Besides manufacturing, women of these self-help groups are also selling these poles skillfully.  The members of the group informed that they have sold 8 thousand 600 poles so far, and earned an income of Rs 26 lakh from the same.  The group has earned a net profit of Rs 9 lakh.  The women said that they make about 60 poles in a day.  The cost of one pole is around Rs 210 and it is sold for Rs 270 to 300.  There is a profit of 80-90 rupees per pole.

 Vimla Didi utilised her earnings for her son's marriage, and for her own medical treatment

 Group member Vimla Rajwade has thanked the government, saying that she has utilised her earnings from the livelihood activities of Gauthan to organise her son's wedding and to get her own medical treatment done.  Likewise, other women of the group have also become financially empowered and are supporting their families.  The group members Rajkumari, Phuleshwari, Kismat Bai and Lilavati are also utilising their earnings from fencing pole manufacturing to not only meet their needs and support their families but also towards fulfilling their dreams.

 Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel welcomes Jagadguru Shankaracharyas of Shardapeeth and Jyotishpeeth at his residence

Seeks blessings by worshiping “Paduka”

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel warmly welcomed Sharadapeethadhishwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj and Jyotishpeethadhishwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati Ji Maharaj at his residence today. He along with his family members received blessings from the Maharaj by worshipping their “Paduka”. He wished for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the people of the state.

Minister of Agriculture Mr. Ravindra Choubey, Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Parasnath Rajwade, and Mr. Chandradev Rai, MLA Mr. Khel Sai Singh, Mr. Rampukar Singh, Mr. Vinay Jaiswal, Mr. Gulab Kamro, Mr. Vinay Bhagat, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation Mr. Girish Dewangan, Advisor to the  Chief Minister Mr. Pradeep Sharma and Mr. Vinod Verma were present on the occasion.