TFP Bureau, Raipur; March 6, 2024: The Council of Ministers convened today at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, yielding a slew of pivotal decisions aimed at advancing various sectors across the state.
Key Decisions Highlights:
1. Krishak Unnati Yojana Implementation: In a nod to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and bolstering farmer welfare, the cabinet endorsed the implementation of the “Krishak Unnati Yojana” from the Kharif season 2023-24. This initiative aims to enhance farmers’ income, crop production, and productivity while reducing input costs. A significant sum of Rs. 19,257 per acre will be disbursed to farmers based on paddy purchases in the Kharif year 2023.
2. Revival of Honor Fund for Democracy Fighters: The cabinet greenlit the revival of the Honor Fund for Democracy Fighters (MISAbandhis), ensuring the release of outstanding amounts to eligible recipients. The move reinstates the Loknayak Jaiprakash Narayan Samman Nidhi Rules-2008, following a High Court directive, thus honoring the contributions of individuals detained under MISA/DIR for political or social reasons during the emergency period.
3. Establishment of Department of Good Governance and Convergence: A dedicated department has been formed to streamline public welfare policies, optimize resource utilization, and expedite grievance resolution. The department will facilitate easy access to government welfare schemes, promote digital governance, and foster administrative reform and innovation.
4. Renaming of Rajiv Nagar Housing Scheme to Atal Vihar Yojana: In a symbolic gesture, the cabinet decided to revert the name of the housing scheme to its original designation as “Atal Vihar Yojana,” underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving historical nomenclature.
5. Procurement of Sugar from Cooperative Sugar Factories: The cabinet authorized the purchase of sugar from cooperative sugar factories for distribution to Antyodaya and Priority ration card holders through the public distribution system, ensuring equitable access to essential commodities.
6. Formation of State Investigation Agency (SIA): In a bid to enhance security measures, the cabinet sanctioned the establishment of the State Investigation Agency to handle specialized cases such as terrorism and left-wing extremism, while coordinating with the National Investigation Agency.
7. Amendments in Contractual Employment Rules: Amendments were made in the Chhattisgarh Civil Service (Contract Appointment) Rules 2012, extending the leave entitlement and facilitating compassionate appointments for contractual employees.
8. Implementation of National Education Policy 2020: The cabinet endorsed the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 in the Higher Education Department, fostering holistic development and providing flexibility in educational pursuits.
9. Renaming of State Planning Commission to State Policy Commission: Aligning with national restructuring efforts, the cabinet approved the renaming of the State Planning Commission to the State Policy Commission.
10. Chhattisgarh Economic Advisory Council Formation: A Chhattisgarh Economic Advisory Council will be established to accelerate economic development, leveraging expert consultations and best practices.
11. Review of Industrial Training Institute Upgradation Scheme: If deemed necessary, the cabinet has the prerogative to terminate the contract with Tata Technology regarding the Industrial Training Institute Upgradation Scheme, ensuring optimal utilization of state resources.
12. Extension of Contractual Service for Training Officers: The Directorate of Employment and Training will renew the contractual service of 46 training officers, ensuring continuity in skill development initiatives.
13. Amendments in Motor Vehicle Taxation Act: Amendments were approved in the Chhattisgarh Motor Vehicle Taxation Act 1991, introducing levies for construction equipment vehicle lifespan and green tax on vehicles during registration or renewal.
These decisions underscore the government’s proactive stance towards fostering inclusive growth and development across Chhattisgarh, signaling a strategic roadmap for progress in diverse sectors.
