TFP Bureau, New Delhi, October 6, 2025: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai met Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at his residence in New Delhi on Monday, holding wide-ranging discussions on issues related to defence expansion, youth employment, and infrastructure development in the state. The meeting focused on the proposed expansion of Bilaspur Airport, the organization of army recruitment rallies across Chhattisgarh, and the symbolic naming of Indian Navy ships after the state’s iconic rivers.
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu and the Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary Subodh Kumar Singh were also present during the meeting. The discussions were marked by mutual agreement on exploring new opportunities to strengthen Chhattisgarh’s contribution to India’s defence and industrial growth.
Chief Minister Sai apprised the Defence Minister that a portion of land under the Ministry of Defence in Bilaspur could be made available for airport expansion. He said the development of Bilaspur Airport would not only boost regional connectivity but also serve as a vital link for defence logistics and industrial transport. He urged the Ministry to facilitate necessary approvals and support for the project.
Highlighting the growing enthusiasm among the youth of Chhattisgarh to serve in the armed forces, the Chief Minister proposed that the Defence Ministry conduct special Army Recruitment Rallies in the state. He said, “The youth of Chhattisgarh are disciplined, courageous, and deeply patriotic. Organizing recruitment rallies here will provide them a platform to serve the nation while ensuring equal opportunity across all districts.” He emphasized that such rallies would particularly benefit aspirants from tribal and rural regions who face logistical challenges in reaching distant recruitment centres.
In a unique proposal reflecting cultural pride, Chief Minister Sai requested that upcoming Indian Navy ships be named after Chhattisgarh’s prominent rivers and regions. He suggested names such as INS Indravati, INS Mahanadi, and INS Bastar, symbolizing the spirit and identity of the state. “Chhattisgarh’s rivers are not just water bodies but the lifelines of our culture and civilization. Naming naval ships after them will bring honor to our heritage and represent our state on the national and global stage,” he said.
The Chief Minister also briefed the Defence Minister on the state’s plans to promote defence and electronics manufacturing under Chhattisgarh’s new industrial policy. He said the policy aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and aims to attract private investment, create jobs, and develop advanced training and research centres. Chhattisgarh, he added, is emerging as an attractive destination for high-technology industries due to its stable governance, resource availability, and improving connectivity.
Minister Rajnath Singh appreciated the Chief Minister’s forward-looking proposals and assured that the Ministry would examine the suggestions positively. He also lauded the state’s initiative to promote defence-linked industries and skill development among youth, emphasizing that such regional collaborations contribute significantly to national strength.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to advancing Chhattisgarh’s participation in India’s defence and industrial ecosystem. With new opportunities in manufacturing, employment, and symbolic recognition through the Navy’s naming initiative, the state is poised to deepen its role in the nation’s journey towards self-reliance and strategic growth.
