TFP Bureau, New Delhi; July 28 2024: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai of Chhattisgarh outlined the state’s ambitious development plan at the ninth Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog, held in New Delhi. Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries, Sai highlighted Chhattisgarh’s focus on education, human resource development, health, and technological advancements as pivotal elements for achieving the goal of a Developed India by 2047.
Chief Minister Sai asserted that Chhattisgarh aims to double its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) from Rs 5.05 lakh crore to Rs 10 lakh crore within the next five years. He emphasized the state’s commitment to preparing skilled human resources by linking education with vocational training, ensuring students are well-equipped for employment. He also introduced the ‘One Nation, One Student ID Card’ (APAAR ID) initiative, which will digitally consolidate all important educational information for each student.
In terms of healthcare, Sai announced plans to enhance the availability of health services, promote sustainable development, and preserve local culture and traditions. He highlighted initiatives like the production of Chhattisgarh Super Foods and the establishment of natural dispensaries. Additionally, the state will focus on processing and branding local products, expanding the Artificial Intelligence and IT sectors, and developing physical and digital infrastructure.
The Chief Minister called for central government support to improve power supply in rural and remote areas. He noted that the state has simplified the installation of rooftop solar power systems and plans to make 100 villages fully reliant on renewable energy. Surveys for rooftop solar plants in government buildings are complete, with installations already supplying power to the grid in Naya Raipur.
Sai committed to delivering drinking water to 96% of households by March 2026, advocating for a water-secure India by 2047. He urged the establishment of a Rain-Water Conservation Research Center and the strengthening of the National Ground Water Training and Research Institute in Raipur, which would aid in effective water storage and usage, benefiting farmers and reducing the water crisis.
To improve healthcare in tribal areas, Sai highlighted the deployment of mobile medical units, ensuring health services reach the remotest regions. Digitization of land records was also announced, aimed at increasing transparency, reducing corruption, and making land disputes more easily resolvable, thus fostering investment and development.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his support and cooperation, expressing optimism that with continued central assistance, Chhattisgarh will achieve its development goals and contribute significantly to the vision of a Developed India by 2047.
The meeting was attended by Union Ministers, Chief Ministers of various states, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories, the Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Governing Council members, and Chhattisgarh’s Chief Secretary, Amitabh Jain.
