TFP Bureau, Raipur, December 2, 2024: A series of significant decisions were taken in the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today at the Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan. The meeting saw important amendments to local governance laws, as well as provisions for the state’s Public Distribution System and the tourism sector.
Direct Elections for Mayors and Municipal Chairpersons
One of the key decisions was the approval to conduct direct elections for the Mayor of Municipal Corporations and Chairman of Municipal Councils. The Cabinet approved the draft ordinances to amend various sections of the Chhattisgarh Municipal Corporation Act, 1956, and the Chhattisgarh Municipality Act, 1961. These amendments will allow for direct elections and reservation provisions. Notably, the system of indirect elections had been introduced in the state after 1999, but the new amendment will revert to the direct election method.
Enhanced Reservation for Backward Classes in Local Bodies
The Cabinet also approved an important amendment to ensure up to 50% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBC) in local bodies. This change, in line with the recommendations of the Backward Classes Welfare Commission, lifts the previous 25% cap on OBC reservation in urban bodies and three-tier Panchayati Raj institutions, thus ensuring better representation.
Gram Procurement for Public Distribution System
The Civil Supplies Corporation has been authorized to procure the necessary gram for distribution to eligible beneficiaries through the Chamds e-auction platform. This decision supports the state’s Public Distribution System, under which gram is provided at a subsidized rate to Antyodaya and priority ration cardholders. With over 30 lakh families benefiting from this scheme, the move aims to ensure the continued supply of high-quality gram for the state’s residents.
Tourism Sector Granted Industry Status
In a bid to boost the tourism industry, the Cabinet granted industry status to tourism in the state. This move is expected to stimulate private investment in areas such as adventure tourism, medical tourism, and agro-tourism. With the new Industrial Policy 2024-30, Chhattisgarh plans to offer incentives such as grants and exemptions for tourism projects, encouraging infrastructure development and creating large-scale employment opportunities.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai emphasized that the granting of industry status to tourism will significantly enhance the state’s tourism infrastructure and attract both national and international tourists, contributing to the state’s economic growth.
These decisions reflect the state’s commitment to improving governance, ensuring equitable development, and creating new economic opportunities for its citizens.
