TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 20, 2025: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development works worth over ₹211 crore in Surajpur district, marking a significant stride in the state’s Silver Jubilee year of establishment. Participating virtually in the Chhattisgarh Silver Festival organized at Tilsiwan, Surajpur, the Chief Minister also unveiled a life-size statue of Bharat Ratna and former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the Atal Complex near the new bus stand, while inaugurating the Kisan Mela cum Organic Fair.
“Silver Jubilee Marks a New Resolve for Progress”
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sai said the 25th year of Chhattisgarh’s formation is a milestone that reflects the state’s glorious journey of development. “In these 25 years, Chhattisgarh has touched new dimensions of progress. Now, we must move ahead with fresh resolutions and unity to achieve greater heights,” he remarked.
Remembering Vajpayee ji, Sai called him the architect of Chhattisgarh. “Atal ji gave this region its own identity by creating Chhattisgarh. His vision, statesmanship, and poetic depth will always inspire future generations,” he said, paying homage to the late leader’s contributions to national development and social harmony.
Review of Achievements and Public Welfare Initiatives
Highlighting government achievements over the past 20 months, the Chief Minister cited the purchase of paddy at ₹3100 per quintal, monthly financial assistance of ₹1000 to 70 lakh women under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, paddy bonus distribution, and assistance of ₹10,000 each to 5.62 lakh landless agricultural laborers. He also mentioned welfare measures such as re-distribution of Charan Paduka to tendu leaf collectors, the Ramlala Darshan Yatra for devotees, pilgrimage trips to 19 religious sites for the elderly, and the establishment of Atal Digital Seva Kendras.
On the issue of Naxalism, the Chief Minister asserted that under the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, rapid steps are being taken to eliminate extremism. “We aim to free Bastar from Naxalism by March 2026. The elimination of notorious Naxalite Basavaraju and the establishment of new security camps signal strong progress in this direction,” he stated.
Deputy CM Stresses on Vajpayee’s Legacy
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saw, joining virtually, extended greetings on the unveiling of Vajpayee’s statue. He credited the former Prime Minister with launching the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, which connected remote villages to mainstream development. “In 25 years, Chhattisgarh has made unprecedented progress in roads, bridges, water supply, and urban development. The government remains committed to expanding public welfare and basic infrastructure,” he said.
₹211 Crore Development Package for Surajpur
The Chief Minister dedicated 37 completed projects worth ₹78.78 crore, including works under the Public Works Department, Panchayat and Rural Development, Urban Bodies, Tribal Development, and PMGSY. In addition, Bhoomi Pujan was performed for 55 new projects worth ₹132.55 crore, comprising roads, bridges, irrigation facilities, water resources development, and police infrastructure.
Kisan Mela cum Organic Fair Showcases Modern Farming
Inaugurating the Kisan Mela cum Organic Exhibition and Training Fair, Sai emphasized the importance of skill-building and employment generation for youth. The fair showcased advanced agricultural equipment, organic fertilizers, improved seeds, and models of sustainable farming. Farmers were guided on crop cycle diversification, natural farming techniques, and water conservation. “Such events strengthen the rural economy and empower farmers with knowledge and resources for a brighter future,” the Chief Minister said.
Beneficiaries Receive Aid Across Departments
During the program, hundreds of beneficiaries received assistance under government schemes. The Fisheries Department distributed ice boxes and boat-nets; the Social Welfare Department provided motorized tricycles; the Health Department issued Ayushman, Vayavandan, and Sickle Cell cards; and the Women and Child Development Department extended LIC bonds and financial aid. Farmers and women self-help groups received loans, irrigation pumps, and seeds, while 25 beneficiaries from the SECL Bhatgaon area were handed employment approval letters.
Presence of Public Representatives
The event witnessed participation of senior leaders and officials, including Chhattisgarh Textbook Corporation Chairman Raja Pandey, District Panchayat Chairperson Chandramani Paikra, Red Cross Society Chairman Babulal Agarwal, and several local representatives.
With the announcement of ₹211 crore worth of works, the inauguration of the Kisan Mela, and schemes reaching beneficiaries, the Surajpur program marked a blend of infrastructure growth, welfare outreach, and cultural reverence for the legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
