New connectivity expected to enhance trade, mobility and cultural ties between Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh
TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 17,2026: Rajendra Shukla, Deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, on Tuesday said that the newly introduced air service between Rewa and Raipur will significantly accelerate the pace of development in the region by improving connectivity and opening new avenues for trade, tourism and employment.
Shukla, who also holds the Public Health and Medical Education portfolio, arrived in Raipur on a two-day visit during which he is scheduled to participate in a series of religious, social and official engagements.
Soon after his arrival, the Deputy Chief Minister visited the Shri Ram Temple, where he offered prayers and sought peace, prosperity and well-being for the people of both states. He later attended a grand felicitation समारोह organised by the Vindhya Society at the Queens Club, where he was accorded a warm welcome by members of the community and local dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Shukla highlighted the importance of robust connectivity in driving regional development. He said that while road and rail networks remain the backbone of transportation, air connectivity plays a crucial role in bridging long distances quickly and efficiently. “The Rewa–Raipur air service has brought regions closer, reduced travel time and created new possibilities for economic growth,” he noted.
He further pointed out that air services connecting Rewa with major cities like Delhi and Indore have already been launched, contributing to increased business activity and employment opportunities in the Vindhya region. Emphasising the need for further strengthening infrastructure, Shukla assured that efforts would be made to expedite the introduction of a रेल service connecting Rewa with Durg, which would further enhance connectivity between the two states.
During the event, Shukla was felicitated by the Vindhyachal Kalyan Sarva Samaj in recognition of his contributions to regional development. Speaking on the occasion, Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Health Minister of Chhattisgarh, said that the historical and cultural ties between Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh are deep-rooted and enduring. He remarked that the new air service would not only reduce geographical distance but also strengthen emotional and social bonds between the people of the two states.
MLA Kiran Singh Deo described the Rewa–Raipur air connectivity as a landmark initiative that has significantly improved ease of travel for citizens, especially those involved in trade, education and healthcare.
According to his scheduled itinerary, Shukla will on March 18 pay a courtesy visit to Raman Singh at the Speaker’s residence. Prior to this, he will inspect the Nalanda Campus, reflecting his focus on strengthening educational infrastructure and academic collaboration.
Later in the day, he is scheduled to interact with citizens from the Vindhya region at the Pahuna Guest House, where discussions are expected to centre on regional development issues, connectivity and opportunities for economic growth.
Among those present at the felicitation ceremony were MLA Motilal Sahu, former Rewa MLA K. P. Tripathi, Society Patron Shankar Singh Gaharwar, President Kalyan Prasad Pandey, Vyas Muni Dwivedi and Madhukar Dwivedi, along with a large number of prominent citizens and members of the Vindhya community.
The launch of the Rewa–Raipur air service is being seen as a major step towards regional integration, with policymakers expressing hope that enhanced connectivity will pave the way for faster economic development and stronger inter-state cooperation.
