TFP Bureau, Raipur, December 11, 2024: Several significant decisions aimed at strengthening Chhattisgarh’s administrative framework, economy, and social development were taken in the Cabinet meeting held today at the Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan, chaired by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai.
Key Decisions on Legislative Amendments and Recruitment
The Cabinet approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Appropriation Bill, 2024, for the presentation of the Second Supplementary Estimate for the fiscal year 2024-2025 in the Assembly. It also greenlit the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Member Salary, Allowance, and Pension (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and the Chhattisgarh Land Revenue Code (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at updating provisions in the 1959 Land Revenue Code.
In a bid to promote inclusivity in police recruitment, the Cabinet decided to relax height and chest criteria for Scheduled Tribe candidates applying for posts in the Chhattisgarh Police. This one-time relaxation will apply specifically to male candidates applying for Subedar, Sub-Inspector, and Platoon Commander positions in 2024.
Dairy and Sports Development in Focus
A major step towards promoting dairy entrepreneurship in the state was taken with the approval to sign an MoU with the National Dairy Development Board. The initiative will enhance milk collection, processing capacity, and the use of advanced technology, fostering self-employment in rural areas.
The Council of Ministers also approved the Chhattisgarh Sports Promotion Scheme, aimed at developing sports culture and infrastructure in the state. Financial assistance will be provided for organizing sports competitions and reviving traditional sports. The scheme will encourage state players to participate in international competitions by offering 100% travel expenses and sports equipment.
Auto Expo and Subsidies for Vehicle Buyers
In a move to promote the automotive sector, the Cabinet decided to offer a 50% discount on the lifetime road tax for vehicles purchased during the Auto Expo, which will take place from 15 January to 15 February 2025 in Raipur. All state vehicle dealers have been instructed to extend this discount to customers.
Paddy Procurement and Custom Milling Decisions
The Cabinet reviewed plans for the disposal of surplus paddy procured during the 2024-25 Kharif season. The discussion included ensuring 100% custom milling of procured paddy and increasing the rice procurement target from surplus stocks. It was decided to offer an Rs. 80 custom milling incentive for paddy procured during this marketing year. Furthermore, millers were permitted to purchase fortified rice kernels from approved manufacturers to meet requirements for the 2024-25 season.
Urban and Rural Governance Reforms
The Cabinet approved the drafts for amendments to the Chhattisgarh Panchayat Raj Act, 1993, the Chhattisgarh Municipal Corporation Act, 1956, and the Chhattisgarh Municipal Act, 1961, as part of ongoing governance reforms aimed at improving local administrative functions.
The Cabinet also approved the draft of the Chhattisgarh Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2024, to streamline taxation procedures in the state.
These key decisions are expected to bolster governance, promote economic growth, and improve services for the people of Chhattisgarh.