TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 14, 2025: Chhattisgarh is the only state in the world where the nephew is revered as a god, with Lord Shri Ram worshipped as “Nephew Ram,” said Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai. His remarks were made during the grand inauguration of the three-day Tatapani Mahotsav in Balrampur-Ramanujganj district. The Chief Minister emphasized that the state’s unique cultural identity was enriched by its deep-rooted traditions, exemplified by the Shri Ram Lala Darshan Yojana, which has allowed over 20,000 Chhattisgarh residents to visit Lord Ram in Ayodhya.
The festival marks a key event for the region, where the Chief Minister also unveiled significant infrastructural and social welfare projects. Shri Sai noted the state’s increasing tourism potential, highlighting Tatapani as a prime location. To foster this growth, he inaugurated and performed Bhoomi Pujan for development works worth Rs 177 crore, including 140 projects totaling Rs 134 crore. Among the key announcements was the construction of a Nalanda campus, aimed at aiding youth preparing for competitive exams, and a new auditorium for Balrampur College.
In addition, the Chief Minister celebrated the marriage of 300 daughters under the Chief Minister Kanya Vivah Yojana, wishing the newlyweds a prosperous life. He also praised the Tatapani Sankranti festival, which showcases Chhattisgarh’s rich culture with folk performances, kite flying, and parasailing, alongside agricultural and community leadership seminars.
Reflecting on the state’s progress, Shri Sai reiterated the success of government schemes, including the substantial increase in paddy support prices and the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, which has significantly boosted housing for the state’s needy. The Chief Minister highlighted the increase in the income eligibility for housing beneficiaries and the forthcoming approval of 4 lakh new houses in the next fiscal year.
Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam also expressed gratitude for the government’s initiatives, which have improved the living standards of many in Chhattisgarh. The festival’s opening was attended by various public representatives and dignitaries, including MLA Smt. Uddheswari Paikra, and MLA Shri Rajesh Agarwal, who participated in the celebration of the state’s cultural and developmental achievements.
