Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker and Chief Minister inaugurated newly-built offices for ministers in Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha premises

Raipur, TNINS 

Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Dr Charandas Mahant and Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday inaugurated newly constructed offices for ministers in the premises of Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha. Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly Shri Santaram Netam, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shri Ravindra Choubey, and Public Works Department Minister Shri Tamradhwaj Sahu along with other cabinet ministers, parliamentary secretaries, and legislators were also present on the occasion.

Raipur TNINS 

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has extended his greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of National Science Day. In his message, Shri Baghel said that Indian scientist Sir Chandrashekhar Venkat Raman had discovered the 'Raman Effect' for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize. National Science Day is celebrated in his honor to raise awareness in the field of science throughout the country. Our country has made significant progress in the field of science, and its achievements have earned global recognition, which is a matter of great pride for the entire nation. He further added that it is essential to promote a scientific outlook and rational thinking to eliminate superstitions that are deeply rooted in society. Science can help us enhance our standard of living and progress through analytical thinking.

Mahila Madai will show a glimpse of Chhattisgarh women's strong steps towards self-reliance: Mrs. Bhediya

Women and Child Development Minister Mrs. Anila Bhediya inaugurated Mahila Madai

66 stalls were set up by women's groups and entrepreneurs from 33 districts

Women representatives went shopping and enjoyed the taste of Chhattisgarhi food

A variety of herbal products, including decorative items, cosmetics, clothing, and dishes made by these women are showcased

Raipur, TNINS 

Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Anila Bhediya inaugurated a 6-day Mahila Madai at BTI Ground, Shankar Nagar in the state capital on the occasion of International Women's Day. There are 66-stalls display of self-made materials by women self-help groups and women entrepreneurs from the state's 33 districts. Mrs. Bhediya also honored 100 swachta didi’s of the Municipal Corporation on this occasion by presenting them with caps and T-shirts.

During this, former Rajya Sabha MP Mrs. Chhaya Verma, Chairperson of Chhattisgarh State Women's Commission Dr. Kiranmayi Nayak, Chairperson of Chhattisgarh Child Protection Commission Mrs. Tej Kunwar Netam, MLA from Dharsinwa Mrs. Anita Yogendra Sharma, MLA from Pandariya Mrs. Mamta Chandrakar and President of Raipur District Panchayat Mrs. Domeshwari Verma were also present. The Mahila Madai organized by the Women and Child Development Department will continue till March 04.

In Madai, the women public representatives admired the skill of Chhattisgarh women and went shopping. They also tasted Chhattisgarhi food, including Cheela, Pidia, Thethri, Laddu, and Lai Badi made by women's groups. Women's representatives also participated in cultural performances and danced to Chhattisgarhi songs and music.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Bhediya bought sarees and cloth bags from Madai. She stated that the state administration has planned numerous new initiatives to empower women through self-employment. A clear idea of Chhattisgarh women being empowered and self-sufficient can be observed in this madai. Women's groups and entrepreneurs will have a platform and a new identity as a result of this.

On this occasion, Director of the Women and Child Development Department, Mrs. Divya Umesh Mishra, members of the Chhattisgarh Child Protection Commission, Mrs. Pushpa Patle, Mrs. Asha Santosh Yadav, Mr. Sonal Kumar Gupta, Mr. Augustine Bernard and departmental officers-employees were present.

Permits will be issued without applying to the transport office while purchasing new commercial vehicles

Vehicle sellers and authorized dealers can issue permits for new commercial vehicles

Raipur, TNINS 

Following the intention of the Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel and under the guidance of the Transport Minister Mr. Mohammad Akbar, the successful operation of the Transport Department’s new facility named ‘Tuhar Sarkar Tuhar Dwar’ is being done. Under this service, transport facilities are being provided at the doorstep of the vehicle owner by the Transport Department. In this regard, the buyer can apply for a permit for newly-purchased commercial vehicles to the vehicle seller/dealer while purchasing the vehicle. They wouldn’t require visiting the transport office to apply for a new vehicle permit. 

It is noteworthy that getting a permit for all commercial vehicles weighing more than 3000 Kg. is compulsory. To obtain a permit, the potential buyer has to apply online and then visit the transport office. Thereafter, the permit is issued after marking it with a seal. 

Why get a permit made?

Many vehicle buyers lack knowledge of a permit’s legal requirements. Especially, buyers who purchase small vehicles often ignore the permit, while considering it a mere registration requirement. They often consider vehicle registration as the complete document. However, when the vehicle faces an accident, the insurance company refuses to issue the insurance amount in the event of no permit. As a result, the vehicle owner has to suffer the financial burden.

How many types of permits are there?

Permits are of mainly two types. The state permit is issued for driving vehicles in the state, and the national permit is issued for driving vehicles in three or more states. The dealer point offers the facility to apply for both types of permits. 

The Raipur Automobile Dealer Association (RADA) had been demanding a facility for permit application at the dealer point for many years. In this regard, the Transport Minister had also raised the demand alongside the Automobile Association. Transport Minister Mohammad Akbar had provided the assurance for required action in the matter.

It is noteworthy that the Transport Minister Mr. Mohammad Akbar, under the ‘Tuhar Sarkar Tuhar Dwar’ scheme, is committed to providing various RTO facilities to the doorstep of the vehicle owner. It is the intention of the Transport Minister that people don’t necessarily require to visit the transport office for vehicle-related work. This facility will enable people to receive all RTO benefits at their homes and will also save them time. Moreover, the crowd at the RTO office will be less dense, due to which the quality of work done by the transport staff will improve substantially. 

The ‘Tuhar Sarkar Tuhar Dwar’ scheme operated by the Transport Department is an important service for the facility of people. As per this scheme, transport-related services are provided at the doorsteps of people. Under this public-centric facility, people won’t have to frequent the offices of the transport department again and again. This will save both the money and time of the applicants.

TNINS 

Production of spices reaches four lakh tonnes in the state

Favourable climatic and soil conditions attracting farmers for spices cultivation

Chhattisgarh is supplying coriander seeds to other states

Raipur,

There has been a steady increase in production of spices in the state. The state government's farmer-friendly scheme is aiding farmers to adopt spices cultivation to earn a good income. Farmers are adopting new techniques in farming. Generally, the farmers who have been cultivating paddy and other traditional crops, are now turning towards the cultivation of spices as well in Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh is getting a new identity in the country in the cultivation of spices.

Being favorable climatic and soil conditions for the cultivation of spices, the production is also increasing in the state. The farmers are earning good income along with an increase in production. There is a balance in the demand and supply of spices in Chhattisgarh. Presently the production of spices is more than four lakh metric tonnes. Also, the results are so encouraging in this area, now coriander seeds are also being supplied from Chhattisgarh to other states.

According to agricultural scientists, the climate of Chhattisgarh is favorable for the production of spices. This is the factor that cultivation of spices is continuously increasing in the state. Turmeric, ginger, red chili, carom seeds, tamarind, and garlic are being cultivated. Turmeric, coriander, fenugreek, garlic, chili, and ginger are being cultivated in almost all areas of Chhattisgarh. At the same time, celery is being cultivated in Balrampur, Bilaspur, Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi and Mungeli, and black pepper in Kondagaon.

Highest production of turmeric

Spices are currently being cultivated in Chhattisgarh on 66081 hectares of land and about 4 lakh 50 thousand 849 metric tonnes of spices have been produced. The area under cultivation and production of turmeric is highest in Chhattisgarh among spices. After that ginger, coriander, garlic, chili, and tamarind are cultivated.

Farmer-friendly schemes are helping farmers

For the cultivation of spices, farmers are providing assistance under the National Horticulture Mission, National Agricultural Scheme, and other schemes. Under the National Horticulture Mission, spices have been cultivated on 13302 hectares of land in 24 districts and 93114 metric tonnes have been produced. In the last four years, spices were cultivated in 1837.29 hectares under the National Agricultural Development Scheme operated in the state and an average production of 12861 metric tonnes has been achieved. About 3500 farmers have benefitted under the schemes.

Farmers are earning good income

Mr. Mayank Tiwari, a farmer cultivating coriander said that it costs about Rs.20 thousand for sowing coriander on one hectare of land. Income up to Rs.60 to 65 thousand can be earned from this crop. He told that after deducting all the expenses, there is a net income of Rs.40 to 45 thousand.

Mrs. Lokeshwari Bai, president of women's SHG cultivating turmeric in Balodabazar district, told that turmeric has been cultivated in one acre of land, which cost Rs 50,000. The crop production turned out to be very good and there is a possibility of getting an average production of 50-60 quintals. Out of cultivated turmeric, 5 quintals have been excavated, packed, and sold in grocery stores. The farmers of Rajnandgaon, Mrs. Arpa Tripathi, Mr. Gopal Mishra, Mr. Sanjay Tripathi, and Mr. Jainu Ram have together cultivated turmeric on 12.208 hectares of land. They are likely to get 250-300 metric tonnes of turmeric production.

Mr. Pratap Singh, a farmer hailing from Korba district told that he sowed a ginger crop in 0.400 hectares which cost Rs 90 thousand. About 47 quintals were produced, on selling this turmeric he got Rs 1.40 lakh and obtained a net profit of Rs.50 thousand. About 300 farmers have been trained for ginger cultivation in the last four years. These farmers cultivated ginger on 130 hectares and produced 2000 tonnes of ginger.

Research on a new variety of spices

Agricultural Scientist of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University Mr. S.H. Tuteja told that research is being held on the seeds of spices in the past years. With the introduction of two new varieties of coriander namely CG coriander and CG Chandrahu coriander, good crop production is being obtained. It is not only being supplied at the local level but also in the other 7 states. Similarly, a new variety of turmeric has also been developed. Mr.Tuteja told that there is a very good potential for spice crops in Chhattisgarh. Now the farmers are cultivating spices and earning a good income.

National Workshop

To encourage the cultivation of spices and find possibilities for cultivating spices by adopting new techniques, a workshop is to be organized on March 14 and 15, 2023 at Barrister Thakur Chedilal Agricultural College and Research Center situated in Sarkanda in Bilaspur. Subject experts from different states of the country will participate in this workshop and discussions will be held regarding the possibilities and capabilities of the production of spices and aromatic crops in Chhattisgarh. In this, the farmers who cultivate spices and the traders who trade them will also be invited so that a detailed discussion can be held regarding the new technology of spices and its business benefits.

Mahasamund, TNINS 

Under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, 250 couples in Mahasamund will tie the knot on 28 February. The wedding program will be held in the Sanjay Kanan in Mahasamund from 11 am on 28 February. The Chief Guest will be the Women and Child Development Minister, Mrs. Anila Bhediya. The Parliamentary Secretary and MLA, Mr. Vinod Chandrakar, will preside over the event and bless the newly-wed couples. The District Program Officer of Women and Child Development in Mahasamund, Mr. Sameer Pandey, said that all the preparation for the wedding of 250 couples is almost complete. 

As the Special Guest, Parliamentary Secretary and MLA of Khallari Assembly Constituency Mr. Dwarikadhish Yadav, Vice President of Scheduled Caste Development Authority and MLA of Saraipali Assembly Constituency Mr. Kismatlal Nand, President of Chhattisgarh Forest Development Corporation and Basna MLA Mr. Devendra Bahadur Singh, President of District Panchayat Mrs. Usha Patel, President of the District Minor Forest Produce Union Mahasamund Mr. Pramod Chandrakar, President of the Municipality Mrs. Rashi Mahilang, President of Janpad Panchayat Mr. Yatendra Kumar Sahu, Organization Officer Mrs. Rashmi Chandrakar, President of the Krishi Upaj Mandi in Mahasamund Mr. Heera Banjare, and Sarpanch Mr. Neelam Kosare will attend the program.

TNINS Raipur 

Women and Child Development Minister, Chairperson of Chhattisgarh State Women Commission, and Chairperson of Chhattisgarh Child Protection Commission participated in the event

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, a large number of women held a bike rally from Raipur’s Telibandha Lake to convey the message of the empowerment of women. In the rally, Women and Child Development Minister Mrs. Anila Bhediya, Chairperson of CG State Women Commission Dr. Kiranmayee Nayak, Chairperson of Chhattisgarh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights Mrs. Tej Kunwar Netam, President of District Panchayat Raipur Mrs. Domeshwari Verma, Director of Women and Child Development Department Mrs. Divya Mishra, Chief of UNICEF in the state Mr. Job Zachariah, and many public representatives and women were present. They gave the message of Gadhbo Suposhit Chhattisgarh and ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’. The rally started from the Telibandha Lake in Raipur and covered a distance of 15 kilometers while passing Ghadi Chowk, Amapara, Station Chowk, Fafadih Chowk, Ambedkar Chowk, and Canal Road to end at the Telibandha Lake again.

TNINS 

Around 1969 camps have been set up under Mukhyamantri Dai-Didi mobile clinic yojana thus far, while 1 lakh 47 thousand 362 women and girls living in slums of Raipur, Bilaspur, and Bhilai Municipal areas have been treated through Dai-Didi Clinic by setting up camp near their homes.

It should be mentioned that Mukhyamantri Dai-Didi Clinic Yojana is managed by the Chhattisgarh Government's Urban Administration and Development Department. Under the initiative, a team of female doctors and staff members arrive in the vehicle of Dai-Didi Clinic's mobile medical unit and treat poor women and girls for free for a variety of diseases. This time these mobile medical units have performed lab tests on 28 thousand 94 women and distributed free medicines to 1 lakh 40 thousand 333 women.

Previously, such women living in poor slum neighborhoods and working hard were unable to receive treatment owing to a lack of time or a variety of other factors, but now they can receive care from a Dai-Didi clinic near their homes via women doctors and medical workers. Now, Women are receiving care from doctors and are able to receive treatment in time as a result of this scheme.

Success achieved through skilled management of the state government

Raipur, TNINS 

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel, the skilled management of the state government has resulted in the lifting of more than 101 lakh metric tonnes of paddy for custom milling. While DO has been issued for the lifting of more than 104 lakh metric tonnes of paddy. This year, 107.53 lakh metric tonnes of paddy has been successfully procured from the farmers of Chhattisgarh at the support price.

It is worth mentioning that, following the initiative of Chief Minister Bhupesh last year, the lifting of paddy has again been started from procurement centers for custom milling this year, which has resulted in a significant reduction in transportation expenditure for the state government. Along with this, the lengthy process of paddy lifting after procurement of paddy has also been shortened. The state government has procured 107.53 lakh metric tonnes of paddy from more than 23.42 lakh farmers till January 31, 2023. About Rs 22, 067 crores have been paid to the farmers in the lieu of paddy purchase.

 TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel chaired the Cabinet Meeting today at his residence office, and following important decisions were taken in the meeting:-

# In the interest of the unemployed, Government of Chhattisgarh has decided to provide unemployment allowance to the unemployed youth of the state.

# Cabinet has approved the draft of Chhattisgarh Appropriation Bill-2023 for presentation of the third supplementary estimate year 2022-2023 in Legislative Assembly.

#The draft of the Chhattisgarh Appropriation Bill-2023 regarding the presentation of the budget estimate year 2023-2024 in Legislative Assembly has also been approved.

# The draft of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Member Salary, Allowances, Pension (Amendment) Bill-2023 was approved.

# Industrial Training Institute Upgradation Scheme in partnership with Tata Technologies Limited was approved by the Cabinet. Under this scheme, a total of Rs 1216.80 crore will be spent on the development of 36 ITIs of Chhattisgarh. With this, other short term courses including Mechanic, Electric Vehicle, Basic Designer and Virtual Verifier (Mechanical), Manufacturing Process Control and Automation, Advanced CNC Machining, Industrial Robotics and Digital Manufacturing and Artisan Using Advanced Tools will also be started in the ITI institutions of the state.

# The twenty-first annual report of the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (for the period from April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022) was approved to be presented in the Legislative Assembly and the General Administration Department was authorized for further action.

# The proposal for the formation of Chhattisgarh State Innovation Commission was approved. The State Innovation Commission will give suggestions for promoting innovative approach in public welfare schemes, for enhancing efficiency in the administrative services, and would also provide suggestions for implementation of the manifesto and other important points given from time to time.

# The Hon'ble Governor's address was approved for the sixteenth session of Chhattisgarh's fifth assembly in the month of March-2023.

# As  the per kilogram conversion percentage from cowdung to vermi compost is 40 to 33 per cent, It was decided to reimburse one rupee cost of additional cowdung used in production of vermicompost under Godhan Nyaya Yojana from cess amount.

        Similarly, the cost of additional cow dung in the Gauthans of the urban bodies will be reimbursed by the government from the amount provided to the urban bodies for procurement of cow dung and the remaining available amount will be used as revolving money for the procurement of cow dung and vermi compost. Cabinet has also decided to build a godown in Gauthan premises, with the approval of the District Collector, in convergence with other government schemes for safe storage.

# The draft of amendment in Chhattisgarh Minor Mineral Ordinary Sand (Excavation and Business) Rules-2019 was approved.

# Cabinet has decided to exempt the Public Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education Department from the Chhattisgarh Store Purchase Rules, in context of purchase/procurement from a single source.

# Cabinet has decided to create the post of Commissioner Medical Education under the Department of Medical Education.

# The proposal for necessary amendment in the Chhattisgarh Motor Vehicle Taxation Act-1991 (No. 25 of 1991) was approved for collection of one-time (lifetime/optional) tax from goods vehicles.

# The amendment proposal for Chhattisgarh Motor Vehicle Taxation-1991 Rule 158 Chhattisgarh Gazette (Extraordinary) notification dated December 31, 2013 clause (5) was approved.

# In Part-I of the second schedule of the Chhattisgarh Motor Vehicle Taxation Act, 1991, the proposal to assess the motor vehicle tax of motor caravan was approved.

# Cabinet has decided to procure grams under the subsidy scheme of Rs 8000 per ton from the buffer stock of Government of India, for distribution to the 'antyoday' and priority beneficiary families of Mada and scheduled areas under the public distribution system.

# Under the Industrial Policy 2019-24, it was decided to implement a special incentive policy for the closed and sick industries in Chhattisgarh. This will be applicable to closed and sick industries after November 1, 2019. This policy will be applicable only to manufacturing industries.

# Chhattisgarh will be developed as a ‘logistics and warehousing hub’. Cabinet has decided to implement the State Logistics Policy 2022.

# The draft of Bill 2023 was approved for settlement of Chhattisgarh outstanding tax interest and penalty.

# Cabinet has decided to implement One Time Settlement Scheme to waive the interest and surcharge imposed on the remaining premium payment from the allottees, on the land/builtup space allotted under miscellaneous land use in Nava Raipur Atal Nagar.

# It has been decided to include widows, widowers, abandoned and unmarried men and women under the state-sponsored Chief Minister cum Prime Minister Housing Scheme and the date of registration for housing has been extended till March 31, 2024.

# The draft of the Chhattisgarh Municipal Corporation Act 1956 (Amendment) Bill was approved.

# The draft of Chhattisgarh Municipality Act 1961 (Amendment) Bill 2023 was approved.

# Cabinet has decided to create a temporary non-cadre post of Principal Secretary/Secretary for the Ministry.

# Cabinet has decided to temporarily create a new non-cadre post of Inspector General of Police/Additional Director General of Police, Chhattisgarh Police Headquarters under the Indian Police Service Cadre of Chhattisgarh State for a period of two years.

Scheme sees 59 per cent increase in beneficiaries in the last year

TNINS 

Chhattisgarh Government's ambitious "Godhan Nyay Yojana" is becoming increasingly popular in the state, and there is a growing connection among rural communities due to the purchase of cow dung under this scheme at Rs. 2 per kg, providing better opportunities for employment and income in the villages. This has also given a boost to animal husbandry in rural areas. A new environment has been created for the conservation and development of livestock in the state. Currently, more than 3.28 lakh rural farmers are directly benefiting from the purchase of cow dung in the Gauthans. In the last year, the number of cattle rearers and rural farmers benefiting from this scheme has increased from 2.06 lakh to over 3.28 lakh with an increase of 59 per cent in the number of beneficiaries.

Under the 'Garuva' programme of the Suraji Gaon Yojana in the state, the construction of Gauthans in villages for the conservation and preservation of cattle is being rapidly carried out. So far, approval for the construction of Gauthans has been given in 10,732 villages in the state, of which 9,720 Gauthans have been constructed and 825 are under construction. The construction work of 187 Gauthans is yet to be started. The Gauthans thus constructed are being managed by the Gauthan committees, where arrangements for the care, treatment, and fodder and water for cattle are made.

It is worth mentioning that the Godhan Nyaya Yojana was started in the state on July 20, 2020, on the auspicious occasion of the Hareli festival. Under this scheme, till February 15, 2023, over 105.53 lakh quintal cow dung has been purchased in Gauthans, in lieu of which Rs 211.25 crore has been paid to the cow dung sellers.

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel inaugurated Chhattisgarh Millet Carnival today by garlanding the portrait of Chhattisgarh Mahtari, lighting the traditional lamp and singing the state song "Arpa Pari Ke Dhar".

Carnival will be organized at Subhash Stadium from 17 to 19 February

This event is being organized under the joint aegis of Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Association and IIMR Hyderabad.

Forest and Climate Change Minister Mr. Mohammad Akbar, President of State Housing Board Mr. Kuldeep Juneja,  are also present in the program

Carnival is being organized with the aim of encouraging inclusion of millet in the daily diet and to create public awareness about its nutritional value.

At the Carnival, common people will be able to enjoy the delicious dishes of Millet.

Millet start-ups are showcasing their packaged millet products at the carnival

Street plays by educational institutions and cultural programs by local folk artists will be organized every evening in the carnival for public awareness.

Famous chefs of the country will also teach how to make new delicious dishes of millet

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel addressed the Millets Carnival inaguration programme

Millets were earlier considered the food of the toiling masses.

Millets seeds can be stored for 12 years

Today millets have become the food of the rich, as most patients of diabetes are from this section of the society

Millets are rich in nutrients, low in glycemic index

Presently, millets are being cultivated in 1 lakh 65 thousand hectare.

Earlier, the millet cultivation area was only 70 hectares

With the support and incentives of state government, the production area of millets has increased by two to two and a half times.

 Millets production, storage, processing have generated employment on a large scale

Millets will be included in the mid-day meal programme.

Chhattisgarh is the hub of millets.

For the first time in the country, the minimum support price of Kodo, Kutki and Ragi has been fixed and announced in Chhattisgarh. This has stirred a wave of joy and enthusiasm among the farmers. Nearly 55 thousand quintals of millets have been procured in the first year itself.

The market price of Kodo, Kutki and Ragi, which used to be Rs.12 to Rs.15 earlier, has been increased to Rs.25 to Rs.28 today.

Millet producing farmers are availing the benefits of input subsidy under Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana

With the financial support from the state government, the country's largest millet processing plant has been set up in the private sector at Nathia Navagaon in Kanker district.

Declares operation of hookah bars "illegal"

Operation of hookah bars in Chhattisgarh is a non-bailable offense under amended law

Raipur TNINS 

Taking an effective step towards creating a healthier environment in the state and curbing the growing trend of drug addiction among youth, Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has declared the operation of hookah bars in the state as "illegal". The relevant law was amended with strict provisions to prevent the operation of hookah bars, which came into effect immediately.

The decision was made after complaints were received regarding the high consumption of hookah, flavored substances, tobacco, and other addictive substances served in hookah bars operated in various eateries, hotels, and restaurants, especially by the youth. This practice is harmful to their health and also promotes addiction. In response to this unlawful activity, the Chief Minister, Shri Bhupesh Baghel, directed strict action against the hookah bars and the closure of all hookah bars in the state. Acting swiftly on the instructions of the Chief Minister, the police department took strict action against all hookah bars, resulting in the closure of all hookah bars in the state.

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel has directed that the aforementioned law should be amended, taking into account the current situation, to prevent the younger generation from becoming addicted to such substances. Accordingly, the Chhattisgarh Government has prepared a draft for necessary amendments to the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply, and Distribution) Act, 2003. Competent permission was obtained after the amendment proposal of the Act was passed by the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly. The Act was published in the Chhattisgarh Gazette on February 10, 2023, by the Chhattisgarh Law and Legislative Affairs Department.

As per the amendments made under the Act, the operation of any kind of hookah bar has been prohibited in the state. In addition, smoking through hookah or 'shisha' in any communal hookah bar has also been banned. A provision has been made to seize any material or object used as a subject or means of use in the hookah bar if it is found to be in operation. Any person found operating a hookah bar will be charged with a non-bailable offense and can face imprisonment for up to 3 years, but not less than 1 year, and a fine of up to Rs 50,000, but not less than Rs 10,000. Similarly, any person found smoking through a hookah in a hookah bar will be fined up to Rs 5,000, but not less than Rs 1,000. These amendments made in the relevant Act have come into effect immediately.

The strict provisions of the law will establish effective control over the operation of hookah bars and the tendency to smoke hookah in groups in the hookah bars.

Relief for more than 900 families in Naxal-affected areas through withdrawal of cases

Chhattisgarh Police's sensitive approach encourages 555 Naxalite surrenders last year

Chhattisgarh DGP writes to NIA Director General seeking probe into killing of three public representatives in Bastar

Raipur TNINS

Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel said that the government is committed to providing a fear-free and law-abiding governance system in Chhattisgarh. He has praised the sensitive attitude of the police in Naxal-affected areas and their efforts to encourage Naxal surrenders, while also cracking down on crime. He has said that the effective strategy of development, trust, and security has resulted in a significant reduction of the Naxal menace in the state.

Home Minister Shri Tamradhwaj Sahu said that in the last four years, continuous efforts have been made to curb Naxalism in Chhattisgarh. The state government is focussing on the modernization of the police force, providing them with modern weapons, security equipment, necessary training, and vehicles to counter Maoists. 

A total of 555 Naxalites surrendered in Chhattisgarh in the last year as a result of the government's efforts for public welfare and the sensitive behavior of the Chhattisgarh police, which is a significant success. During the same period, as many as 46 Naxalites also died in police encounters. In the last four years, cases of more than 900 families in insurgency-hit areas have been withdrawn, providing relief to innocent people. This was made possible through the government's visionary approach to the welfare of the tribals and the sensitive handling by the police. 

It is worth mentioning that the Chhattisgarh Director General of Police Shri Ashok Juneja has written a letter to the Director General of the NIA, seeking an investigation into the killing of three public representatives in Bastar. The Naxalism in Chhattisgarh is continuously shrinking with a significant reduction in their activity due to the efforts Central Security Force and the State Police. As a result, Naxalites, in a fit of rage, are now targeting public representatives and common citizens.

Chief Minister participated in the annual festival and medal distribution program of Digvijay Autonomous Government Post Graduate College

Announced a grant of Rs. 50 lakh for construction of compound in college, Rs 10 lakh for leveling of playground

Employment-oriented programs are being run to provide employment to the youth 

TNINS 

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel has said that like the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Industrial Parks established in rural areas, 'Urban Rural Industrial Park' will be established to provide employment to the youth in urban areas as well. Many programs are being run in the state to provide employment opportunities to the youth of the state. Developed land, electricity, water and other necessary infrastructure is being provided to the youth to start their own small industries in the Rural Industrial Park established in the rural areas.

Chief Minister Mr. Baghel was addressing the annual festival and medal distribution program of Government Digvijay Autonomous Post Graduate College of Rajnandgaon today. On this occasion, while wishing the students of the college for their bright future, the Chief Minister said that doors of many possibilities  open for students after college. He further said that Through the annual festival program, the youth gets a good opportunity to prove their talent and move towards progress.

The Chief Minister said that Rajnandgaon district is famous in the entire state in the field of art and literature. He said that legendary litterateurs like Gajanan Madhav Muktibodh, Padumlal Punnalal Bakshi, Dr. Baldev Prasad Mishra have brought laurels to Rajnandgaon district. On this occasion, the Chief Minister said that fees for competitive exams have been waived off for the youth. Along with this, Swami Atmanand English Medium School has been established to provide free of cost quality education in English medium to the students of weaker sections. On this occasion, the Chief Minister honored the meritorious students of the college for the session 2022 and the winners of various competitions were felicitated by distributing medals. On the demand of the students of the college, the Chief Minister announced Rs 50 lakh for the construction of compound in the college and Rs 10 lakh for the leveling of the playground. Along with this, he also announced to make provision in the budget for parking and other infrastructure in the coming time.

On this occasion, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Rural and Other Backward Classes Areas Development Authority Mr. Daleshwar Sahu, MLA from Khujji Mrs. Chhanni Sahu, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Antavasyayi Sahkari Vitt vikas Nigam Mr. Dhanesh Patila, Chairman Chhattisgarh State Youth Commission Mr. Jitendra Mudaliar, Chairman District Cooperative Central Bank Maryadit Mr. Nawaz Khan, Chairman Rajgami Sampada Nyas Mr. Vivek Wasnik along with many public representatives, officers and a large number of citizens were present.

On the lines of RIPA, Urban Cottage and Service Industries Park to be opened in all municipal corporations and municipalities - Chief Minister

Announcement made to open BPO equipped with software and hardware facility in Raipur and Bhilai

World class Central Library cum reading zone will be built in Bhilai at a cost of 20 crores

CCTV cameras will be installed in market areas of cities for security

Raipur TNINS 

In a bid to ensure holistic development of urban bodies of the state, today Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel gave a significant gift of development works worth one thousand crore rupees to the citizens of the state. Participating in the Gaurav Samagam-2023 of the Urban Administration and Development Department, the Chief Minister said that “citizens are getting numerous facilities while sitting at home and civic facilities have also increased in urban bodies”. He further said that “our government has improved the process of making ration cards. Today everyone's ration card is made easily. Earlier it used to be very difficult to get building permission but now it has also been simplified. Under the Mukhyamantri Mitan Yojana, 15 types of services are being provided at home.”

Making a big announcement, the Chief Minister said that BPOs equipped with software and hardware facilities will be opened in Raipur and Bhilai to provide employment for youth. To provide better education for students, a world-class Central Library cum Reading Zone will be made in Bhilai at a cost of 20 crores. The Chief Minister also announced the opening of Urban Cottage and Service Industries Park in all Municipal Corporations and Municipalities on the lines of RIPA. In order to increase the health facilities of the citizens, he also announced to make smart health kiosks in the municipal corporations, in which BP, sugar, and blood tests will be available free of cost. Announcing the facilities of  CCTV, modern toilets and development arrangements in the market areas of the cities, the Chief Minister said that on the demand of public representatives, the ‘chungi kar’ compensation amount of urban bodies would be increased from Rs.26 to Rs.35.

Significant Announcements made by Mr. Baghel:

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel announced to grant an amount of about Rs. 1 thousand crores to all the urban bodies for development works. He granted 100 crores to Municipal Corporation Raipur, 50 crores to Bilaspur Municipal Corporation, 25 crores to Durg Municipal Corporation, 20 crores each to Bhilai-Charoda, Ambikapur, Jagdalpur, 15 crores each to Risali, Rajnandgaon, Raigarh and Korba, Birgaon, he also announced to grant an amount of 10 crores each to Dhamtari and Chirmiri. Along with this, he also announced to give 5-5 crores to all the municipalities and 3-3 crores to all the Nagar Panchayats.

The Chief Minister also announced urban women's livelihood centers in Raipur, Bhilai and Bilaspur, drainage system for the waterlogged areas of Raipur city, simplification of land development rules, upgradation of Mahatma Gandhi Stadium in Ambikapur, road construction and beautification.

Addressing the Gaurav Samagam function, Urban Administration and Development Minister Mr. Shivkumar Dahriya said that in the last 4 years, with an improved system, efficient work has been done in the field of basic amenities of road, water, electricity, and cleanliness in the urban body area. Constant upgradation is being made in the parameters of development in civic areas. He said that under the guidance of the Honorable Chief Minister, better holistic development work is being done in all areas of the urban bodies. Parliamentary Secretary of Urban Administration and Development Department Mr. Rekhchandra Jain, Mayor of Raipur Mr. Aijaz Dhebar, Special Secretary Dr. Ayyaz Tamboli, Director Mr. R. Ekka, CEO of SUDA Mr. Saumil Ranjan Choubey, mayors, presidents and other public representatives of all bodies were present in the program..

Urban bodies awarded for excellent work:

 - In the Gaurav Samagam ceremony, the urban bodies were awarded for the excellent implementation of various departmental schemes. Municipal Corporation Birgaon was awarded for the most active body, Municipal Corporation Bhilai Charoda for comprehensive coverage and Municipal Corporation Ambikapur for the implementation of services related to the urban body, for excellent performance in Mukhyamantri Mitan Yojana. Municipal Corporation Dhamtari, Municipal Council Dallirajhara and Nagar Panchayat Amdi were awarded for their excellent performance in Mukhyamantri slum swasth Scheme. Nagar Palika Nigam Raigarh, Nagar Palika Parishad Gariaband and Nagar Panchayat Gurr were awarded for commendable performance in Shri Dhanwantri Generic Medical Stores Scheme. Nagar Palika Nigam Raipur, Nagar Palika Parishad Deepka and Nagar Panchayat Kharora were awarded for maximum revenue collection. Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel released a coffee table booklet based on departmental achievements of last 4 years on the occasion of Gaurav Samagam function. On this occasion, he also released a video based on departmental achievements, He further released Mor Patrika Mor Samman guide under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, the guide for aspirational toilet design under Swachh Bharat Mission. Beneficiaries who were selected in the competition organized by the  Government of India on the theme of Khushiyon Ka Aashiana under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana were also awarded.

Students expressed their satisfaction with the doctor's treatment

Raipur TNINS 

The state government has launched the 'Mukhyamantri Shehri Slum Swasthya Yojana' in 2019 to make health facilities even more convenient and accessible in urban areas. Now, the people residing in urban slums no longer have to visit hospitals for the treatment of minor ailments. Previously, sick individuals had to go to a hospital for treatment and wait in long lines for their turn. Keeping in view these difficulties, Chief Minister Shri Bhupesh Baghel, implemented this scheme for the public. The health department's mobile medical unit carries out 40 types of tests, including blood and other samples, while free medicine is also distributed to patients after the examination.

On Monday, February 13, the dedicated MMU reached the government girls' high school for the hearing-impaired near the district court, where 29 hearing and speech-impaired students received medical treatment and free medicines as per their requirements. During the treatment, students including Nandini Sahu of class 8th, Prachi Maurya, Urvashi, and Sanjana Mehr of class 6th pointed out through sign language that they received treatment for headache, body pain, cold, cough, body pain, and common flu. Similarly, Kajal Som and Bhoomika Sahu of class 10th also expressed their satisfaction after receiving treatment from the doctor.

The teacher said that the dedicated MMU comes here regularly every 15 days and the medical staff conducts health checkups and collects samples for necessary tests such as blood, mucus, urine, etc. and distributes free medicines on the spot after registering the students.

Institution director, Smt. Uma Devangan, said that there are 80 students enrolled in their residential school, and 29 students received treatment for common ailments on Monday. She added that this scheme has proved to be a boon for the girls. Earlier, these students had to be taken to the district hospital four kilometers away for treatment, which took the whole day for them to commute and receive treatment, but now, with the commencement of MMU services, the children are receiving services at the campus only.

New system will reduce involvement of brokers and extra charges

Buyers of second-hand vehicles in the state will be relieved from the hassle of RTO office visits

Raipur TNINS 

In Chhattisgarh, there is no longer a need to go to an RTO office to buy or sell second-hand vehicles. The Transport Department has started a new process called Aadhaar authentication, under which buyers and sellers can go to their nearest transport service center and easily transfer vehicle ownership. The biggest advantage of this system is that it will reduce the involvement of brokers in the process. Official said that the system is now ready and people will get benefitted directly from it. An additional fee of Rs 100 will have to be paid to the transport service center.

Transport Commissioner Shri Dipanshu Kabra said that the Transport Department has launched a new system called "Aadhaar Authentication" from Monday. With the commencement of this system, people buying and selling second-hand vehicles will now be able to go to nearby transport service centers and easily transfer vehicle ownership.

According to the RTO data, more than two lakh second-hand vehicles are bought and sold in the state every year, and transferring their registration certificates can be a complicated process. Until the ownership of the vehicle is transferred in the name of the buyer, they are not considered the legal owner of the vehicle. Similarly, if a used vehicle is sold and an accident or crime occurs involving that vehicle, action is taken against the person registered in the RC book. Therefore, it is necessary to transfer the registration of a used car to the buyer's name, which requires filling out an online form and visiting the RTO office in person along with the vehicle for verification.

All you need to know about the new system

Nearly 500 service centers have been opened by the transport department across the state, including approximately 50 centers in the Raipur district. Currently, online forms are being filled out for transportation-related tasks here. The department is now introducing Aadhaar authentication at these service centers. The buyer/seller will need to provide their Aadhaar number at the service center, where an employee will check the vehicle number and owner's name in the department's software. Following this, the buyer/seller's fingerprint will be taken using an Aadhaar authentication device. Officials said that this process is being simplified so that vehicle owners do not have to make multiple visits to the office.

Revised Fees

Currently, different charges apply for transferring vehicle ownership in different categories at government offices, with that of two-wheelers at Rs 400, light motor vehicles at Rs 550, and three-wheelers at Rs 750. However, people often end up paying extra charges to agents. Now, the same work can be done at service centers with an additional charge of Rs 100, which will save both time and money for people.