TFP Bureau, Raipur, June 18, 2025: In a crucial meeting chaired by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai at his Civil Lines residence office today, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet cleared a series of significant decisions spanning social welfare, renewable energy promotion, wildlife conservation, industrial development, and administrative reforms.
Educational Benefits Extended to Marginalized Communities
In a major step towards social inclusion, the Cabinet approved extending state-funded scholarships and stipends to certain communities that have been technically excluded from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes lists. Students from the Dihari Korwa, Baghel Kshatriya, Sansari Oraon, and Pabia/Pavia/Paviya communities will receive educational benefits at par with Scheduled Tribes, while Domra caste students will receive benefits equivalent to Scheduled Castes. These communities will also be eligible for admissions into hostels and ashrams within the approved seat limits.
Financial Assistance for Solar Rooftop Installations Under PM Surya Ghar Scheme
To promote renewable energy and offer economic relief to electricity consumers, the Cabinet sanctioned additional state financial assistance for rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL) will serve as the nodal agency for disbursing subsidies.
Subsidy amounts will depend on the capacity of the installed system. For a 1 kW plant, consumers will receive Rs 45,000 (Rs 30,000 central + Rs 15,000 state), while a 3 kW or higher system will attract a total benefit of Rs 1,08,000 (Rs 78,000 central + Rs 30,000 state). Similar subsidies have been approved for housing societies and residential welfare associations.
The state targets installation of 60,000 rooftop solar units in 2025–26 and 70,000 in 2026–27, with estimated financial commitments of Rs 180 crore and Rs 210 crore respectively. State assistance will be prioritized for installations synchronized to the grid after 1 April 2025.
Chhattisgarh Tiger Foundation Society to Safeguard Endangered Wildlife
Recognizing the alarming decline in the state’s tiger population (currently estimated at 18–20), the Cabinet approved the formation of the Chhattisgarh Tiger Foundation Society under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Modeled after a similar organization in Madhya Pradesh, this self-financed society will undertake tiger and wildlife conservation activities without imposing any financial burden on the state. It will also engage local communities in eco-tourism and environmental education, generating employment while preserving biodiversity.
Institutional Merger and Land Allocation for Horticulture College
The Cabinet approved the merger of the Vivekananda Institute of Social Health, Welfare and Services (VISHWAS) with the Ramkrishna Mission Ashram Narayanpur, streamlining the administration of the grant-in-aid institution.
In another key move, 100 acres of government land in Belgaon (Bemetara district) were allocated free of cost to the Horticulture Department for the establishment of a new Horticulture College under Horticulture University, aimed at strengthening agricultural education and research.
Expansion of ‘JashPure’ Brand to Boost Tribal Women’s Employment
To enhance market access for traditional tribal products such as herbal and mahua tea produced by women self-help groups in Jashpur district, the Cabinet approved transferring the ownership of the JashPure brand to either the state government or the Chhattisgarh State Industrial Development Corporation (CSIDC). The move is expected to expand agro-processing units, increase demand for local raw materials, and generate additional employment opportunities for tribal women, without financial strain on the state.
Compassionate Appointments Liberalized for Families of Martyred Police Personnel
In a significant reform, the Cabinet amended Clause 13(3) of the Unified Revised Guidelines–2013 for compassionate appointments. Now, eligible family members of police personnel martyred in Naxalite violence may seek government jobs in any department and district of the state, as per their preference, thereby expanding employment opportunities for affected families.
Formation of State Mineral Exploration Trust (SMET)
To advance systematic exploration and development of minor minerals, the Cabinet approved the draft notification for setting up the State Mineral Exploration Trust (SMET). Modeled on the National Mineral Exploration Trust, SMET will be funded by an additional 2% royalty from all minor minerals. The fund will be utilized for advanced exploration technologies, infrastructure development, human resource upgrades, and logistical support in the state’s mining sector.
These comprehensive measures reflect the state government’s continued commitment to inclusive development, clean energy, conservation, and administrative reform.
