TFP Bureau, Raipur, May 13, 2025: Union Rural Development Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chauhan, addressing the “More Housing, More Rights” event in Ambikapur today, reaffirmed the government’s pledge to provide permanent housing to every family in Chhattisgarh. He handed over approval letters for 3.7 lakh Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) houses to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, highlighting that all beneficiaries from the 2018 PM Awas survey list in the state would soon receive their homes.
In a moment of great significance, Shri Chauhan also performed the Griha Pravesh (housewarming) ceremony for 51,000 newly constructed PMAY homes and handed over the keys to the beneficiaries. He paid special tribute to the self-help group ‘Lakhpati Sisters,’ recognizing their excellent work, and inaugurated the Amrit Sarovar Portal.
A Promise Fulfilled: Permanent Homes for All
Shri Chauhan assured that under the government’s vision, no poor family would be left with a kutcha (temporary) house. He revealed that a fresh survey is underway, aiming to replace all kutcha houses with pucca (permanent) homes. He emphasized that the double-engine government had kept its promise by ensuring that every eligible beneficiary in Chhattisgarh now had their home approved.
Speaking about the development of the nation, the Minister highlighted that India is progressing under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and Chhattisgarh is an integral part of this transformation. He also touched upon the Lakhpati Didi Scheme, aimed at making women self-help group members financially independent, with plans to create four lakh Lakhpati Didis in the state.
Farming as a Profitable Venture
Shri Chauhan also addressed the pressing issue of farming, stating that the government is committed to making agriculture a profitable business. He praised the state government’s initiative to purchase paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal, boosting farmers’ incomes. In addition, agricultural scientists will soon visit villages to provide expert advice on increasing crop yield and improving farming practices. Along with agriculture, the government is also focused on promoting animal husbandry and horticulture.
Supporting the People: Infrastructure and Employment
Highlighting the increase in Chhattisgarh’s labor budget for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Shri Chauhan assured that every eligible person in rural areas would receive employment opportunities. He also noted that beneficiaries are provided with 90 days of wages for constructing their homes under PMAY.
The Union Minister also saluted the bravery of Indian soldiers, referencing Operation Sindoor, and stated that India is no longer a nation that tolerates; it is one that responds.
Chhattisgarh’s Journey Towards Comprehensive Development
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, who presided over the event, expressed his gratitude towards the Union Minister for fulfilling the promise of housing for all. He shared that the state government had approved 18 lakh houses for beneficiaries since taking office in December 2024.
Additionally, he emphasized that the ongoing Awas Plus-Plus survey, which aims to expand eligibility for housing, would provide opportunities for even more families, including those with non-irrigated land or motorcycles.
Sushasan Tihaar and Governance Reforms
Chief Minister Shri Sai also informed the gathering about the ongoing “Sushasan Tihaar” (Good Governance Festival), which is taking place in three phases to address the common people’s issues. He highlighted various governance reforms, including the establishment of Atal Digital Suvidha Kendras in gram panchayats, facilitating easier access to services like pension withdrawals, and income and caste certificates.
Shri Sai concluded by underscoring the state’s progress toward becoming Naxal-free by 2026 and expanding public service access to rural areas.
Program Attended by State and National Dignitaries
The event saw the participation of numerous dignitaries, including Union Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu, Finance Minister Shri O.P. Choudhary, Agriculture Minister Shri Ram Vichar Netam, and other prominent figures from Surguja division. The gathering was a testament to the collaborative efforts between the state and central governments to uplift the living standards of the people of Chhattisgarh.
