Bilaspur: In a significant step towards infrastructure development and sustainable livelihood, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, initiated commencement of work, and dedicated to the nation multiple projects worth over Rs 33,700 crore in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, today. The event, marking the auspicious beginning of the New Year and the first day of Navratri, underscored the state’s cultural and spiritual significance.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi highlighted Chhattisgarh as the land of Mata Mahamaya and the maternal home of Mata Kaushalya. He emphasized the special importance of these nine days dedicated to feminine divinity, expressing his honor to be in the state on this auspicious occasion. He also congratulated the people on the issuance of a postal stamp in honor of Bhakt Shiromani Mata Karma and acknowledged the deep devotion to Lord Ram in the state, particularly among the Ramnami Samaj.
Major Development Initiatives Unveiled
With the blessings of Mohbhatta Swayambhu Shivling Mahadev, PM Modi emphasized the potential to accelerate development in Chhattisgarh. The Rs 33,700 crore projects span various sectors, including housing for the poor, schools, roads, railways, electricity, and gas pipelines. He stressed that these initiatives aim to enhance convenience for citizens and create employment opportunities, congratulating the people on the progress achieved.
A key highlight of the event was the announcement that three lakh poor families in Chhattisgarh are moving into new homes, a milestone in the government’s housing initiatives. Modi noted that under the leadership of Shri Vishnu Deo, the first Cabinet decision was to construct 18 lakh houses, of which three lakh have been completed. He expressed happiness that many homes are in tribal areas, benefiting families in Bastar and Surguja, calling it a transformative step for families long residing in makeshift shelters.
Women Empowerment and Economic Boost
PM Modi highlighted that most of these homes are owned by women, marking a significant milestone in property ownership. He praised the impact of these projects, which not only provided shelter but also generated employment for local artisans, masons, and laborers. The use of locally sourced materials further benefitted small shopkeepers and transport operators, contributing to Chhattisgarh’s economy.
Underlining the fulfillment of government promises, the Prime Minister emphasized swift implementation of guarantees, including the disbursement of two years’ pending bonuses to paddy farmers and increased MSP rates. These measures have injected thousands of crores into farming families. He also criticized the previous administration for recruitment exam scams and highlighted his government’s efforts for transparent, fair examinations.
Silver Jubilee of Chhattisgarh’s Statehood and Infrastructure Growth
Highlighting that 2025 marks the Silver Jubilee of Chhattisgarh’s statehood and the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Modi reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to infrastructure development. He criticized previous governments for failing to deliver progress and prioritizing corruption over people’s welfare. In contrast, he emphasized that his administration has focused on improving livelihoods, education, and health services.
Railway Electrification and Power Reforms
PM Modi announced that Chhattisgarh has achieved full railway electrification, with Rs 40,000 crore worth of rail projects underway. This year’s budget allocated Rs 7,000 crore for further rail connectivity improvements. He highlighted the government’s push for power sector reforms, ensuring that the state benefits from its coal reserves without facing electricity shortages, a persistent issue under previous administrations.
PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Scheme and Gas Pipeline Expansion
Emphasizing sustainable energy, Modi introduced the ‘PM Suryagarh Muft Bijli Scheme,’ offering Rs 78,000 assistance per household to install solar panels. Over two lakh families in Chhattisgarh have already registered. The Prime Minister also addressed the longstanding challenge of delivering gas pipelines to the landlocked state, criticizing previous administrations for failing to invest in infrastructure. The ongoing gas pipeline projects will ensure affordable fuel, reduced dependence on truck transportation, and increased industrial development.
Tribal Development and Eradicating Naxalism
PM Modi condemned previous administrations for neglecting tribal communities and allowing Naxalism to spread due to underdevelopment. He emphasized his government’s commitment to uplifting tribal societies through initiatives like the “Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utkarsh Abhiyan,” with an investment of Rs 80,000 crore benefiting 7,000 tribal villages in Chhattisgarh. The “PM Janman Yojana” was also highlighted as a groundbreaking effort to support vulnerable tribal groups by improving road connectivity and providing permanent housing.
Education and Healthcare Advancements
The Prime Minister praised the Bastar Olympics for showcasing positive changes in Naxal-affected areas and recognized Sukma district’s health center for receiving a national quality certificate. He highlighted the state’s strong implementation of the New Education Policy and the establishment of 12,000 modern PM Shri Schools, including 350 in Chhattisgarh. He also emphasized that medical and engineering studies are now available in Hindi, removing language barriers for rural and tribal youth.
Vision for Chhattisgarh’s Future
PM Modi set a goal for Chhattisgarh to become a leading state by its 50th anniversary, assuring that his government will leave no stone unturned in ensuring development reaches every family. He reiterated the commitment to progress and emphasized that the next 25 years will see unparalleled growth in the state.
The event was attended by Chhattisgarh Governor Shri Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Union Ministers Shri Manohar Lal and Shri Tokhan Sahu, Chhattisgarh Assembly Speaker Shri Raman Singh, and other dignitaries.
