TFP Bureau, Raipur; July 18, 2024: Chhattisgarh has been recognized for its exemplary efforts in empowering urban poor families and enhancing their livelihood opportunities at the ‘SPARK’ awards, presented by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in New Delhi. The state secured five awards across various categories, highlighting its commitment to urban development and welfare.
The prestigious ‘SPARK 2023–24’ awards honored Chhattisgarh’s outstanding work under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana—National Urban Livelihood Mission (DAY-NULM). Bilaspur Municipal Corporation won first prize in the population category up to ten lakh, Raigarh Municipal Corporation won first prize in the category up to three lakh, and Bhatapara Municipality secured first prize in the category up to one lakh. Champa Municipality won second prize in the population category up to 50 thousand. Additionally, Chhattisgarh received the third prize nationally for its excellent work in the National Urban Livelihood Mission.
The awards were presented by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal and Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu during a ceremony held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. A delegation of 20 officials and beneficiaries from Chhattisgarh accepted the awards on behalf of their respective bodies.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the SUDA team, the four urban local bodies, and the people of Chhattisgarh. He stated that these awards from the Government of India are a matter of honor for the state. Under the National Urban Livelihood Mission, assistance is being provided for self-employment, skill development, and support for urban street vendors. Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Urban Administration and Development Shri Arun Sao also extended his congratulations, emphasizing the mission’s commitment to the economic and social empowerment of women and youth in Chhattisgarh.
Beneficiaries of the PM SVANidhi scheme, including Shri Sumit Kisku from Jashpur Municipality and Shri Kushal Ram Sahu from Lormi Nagar Panchayat, participated in the ceremony, showcasing their efforts in empowering urban poor families and enhancing livelihood opportunities. Representatives from various self-help groups and municipal corporations also attended, demonstrating Chhattisgarh’s dedication to urban development.
The awards ceremony saw representatives receiving accolades on behalf of their respective bodies. Deputy Chief Executive Officer of SUDA Shri Sunil Agrahari, State Mission Managers Shri Vivek Shukla and Shri Prashant Amoli, and other key officials were present to accept the honors. Secretary of the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Anurag Jain, Joint Secretary and Managing Director of NULM and PM SVANidhi Shri Rahul Kapoor, and other dignitaries were also in attendance.
These awards underscore Chhattisgarh’s leadership in urban development and its successful implementation of the National Urban Livelihood Mission, bringing positive change to the lives of many in the state.
