Key Decisions Taken in Cabinet Meeting Led by Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel
TFP Bureau, Raipur, Oct 07, 2023: A crucial Cabinet Meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel, took place at his residence office today. Several significant decisions were made during the meeting to address various aspects of governance and development in Chhattisgarh. Here are the key decisions taken:
1. Formation of State Mahua Board:
The Cabinet has given the green light to establish the State Mahua Board in Chhattisgarh. This initiative aims to promote the collection, value addition, processing, and utilization of Mahua, a native tree species found abundantly in the state. Mahua flowers are not only edible but also possess medicinal properties, while the seeds of Mahua are a valuable source of healthy fats. Recognizing the importance of Mahua as a livelihood source for forest-dwelling communities and its various uses, the State Mahua Board will focus on enhancing production, collection, processing, and value addition of Mahua flowers, fruits, and seeds. Additionally, the promotion of Mahua processing aligns with the establishment of biodiesel or ethanol production units in the state.
2. Restoration of Old Pension Scheme:
The Cabinet has swiftly approved Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel’s announcement made during the “Nagriy Nikaay Avam Panchayati Raj Mahasammelan” held in Govindpur, Kanker. The decision pertains to reinstating the old pension scheme in place of the contributory pension scheme for officers and employees of Chhattisgarh State Power Companies appointed on or after January 1, 2004. This move is expected to benefit approximately 10 thousand officers and employees of State Power Companies.
3. Approval of Chhattisgarh Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023:
The Cabinet has given its nod to the proposed amendments in the draft of Chhattisgarh Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2023, facilitating changes in the state’s GST regulations.
4. Relaxation in Criteria for Local Governance:
Several decisions were made regarding relaxation in criteria for local governance units:
– Bhoring Gram Panchayat in District Mahasamund will be upgraded to a Nagar Panchayat.
– Nagar Panchayat Ambagarh Chowki will be upgraded to a Municipality.
– Nagar Panchayat Navagarh in District Bemetara will be upgraded to a Municipal Council.
5. ESMA Act:
The Cabinet decided to declare the dismissal proceedings against officers and employees involved in the strike of the Health Department as void under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA).
6. Concession for Welfare Projects:
– Concession in premium, annual land rent, environment cess, and infrastructure cess will be provided on the land allotted to Shri Kalyan Seva Ashram, Amarkantak. This land will be utilized for the construction of Sanskar Study School, Hospital, and Cowshed for the welfare of tribal and backward classes in Chhattisgarh.
7. Staff Appointments:
– The Cabinet decided to upgrade one post of Joint Director, approved for deputation in Markfed from the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Department, to the post of Additional Director.
– Two new posts of Additional Director will be created in the Directorate of Public Instruction, Chhattisgarh Raipur.
These decisions reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing various sectors, from sustainable forestry and pension reforms to governance at the grassroots level and welfare initiatives for disadvantaged communities. The Cabinet Meeting underscores the state’s dedication to progress and development in Chhattisgarh.
