Kumar Bahukhandi
Singapore, October 4, 2026: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai with members of the state delegation and Gardens by the Bay officials following discussions on horticulture, conservation, urban greening and eco-tourism. The state is exploring learnings from Singapore for botanical gardens in Nava Raipur and greener urban spaces across Chhattisgarh. Photo: X/@vishnudsai
CM Vishnu Deo Sai says cooperation in horticulture, conservation, urban greening and eco-tourism can help create better green spaces, attract tourists and generate employment
Key Highlights
- Chhattisgarh delegation holds formal discussions with senior officials of Gardens by the Bay, Singapore.
- Talks cover horticulture, conservation, urban greening and eco-tourism.
- State seeks to draw on Singapore’s experience for developing botanical gardens in Nava Raipur.
- CM Sai expects improved green infrastructure to support tourism and create employment.
- Chhattisgarh is participating in the inaugural SING Forum 2026 following nomination by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Chhattisgarh is looking to Singapore’s internationally recognised approach to urban greenery and horticulture as the state explores plans for botanical gardens in Nava Raipur and improved green spaces elsewhere.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, along with the Chhattisgarh delegation, held a formal meeting in Singapore with Jason Yeo, General Manager, Master Planning, and Lim Chiap Song, Director, Gardens by the Bay. The discussions centred on possible cooperation and exchange of experience in horticulture, conservation, urban greening and eco-tourism.
The interaction assumes significance for Chhattisgarh as the state seeks to combine planned urban development with environmental conservation and tourism. Gardens by the Bay provides an example of how large-scale green infrastructure can be integrated with an urban landscape while also developing into a major visitor attraction.
Referring to the discussions, Sai said, “Learnings from Gardens by the Bay will help us develop botanical gardens in Nava Raipur and better green spaces across Chhattisgarh. This will boost tourist footfall and create employment for hundreds of our people.”
The proposed approach could give Nava Raipur’s development an additional environmental and tourism dimension, with botanical spaces serving not only recreational purposes but also supporting horticultural awareness, conservation and nature-based tourism.
The Singapore engagement is part of Chhattisgarh’s participation in the inaugural SING Forum 2026. The state has been nominated by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to participate in the forum.
Sai described Chhattisgarh’s participation as a matter of pride, highlighting the opportunity to draw upon international experience and explore cooperation that could be adapted to the state’s development requirements.
