Kumar Bahukhandi
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, accompanied by Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, greets devotees and members of the gathering during the inauguration of the three-day Shivrinarayan Mahotsav at Shivrinarayan in Janjgir-Champa district on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. The Chief Minister announced major development projects, including a new bridge across the Mahanadi costing more than ₹63 crore. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/DPR
Inaugurating the three-day Shivrinarayan Mahotsav, Chief Minister unveils plans for a sewage treatment plant, Ram Van Gaman tourism development and a survey for municipal council status; pledges to unite faith, cultural heritage and infrastructure development.
Key Highlights
- Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announces a new bridge across the Mahanadi at a cost exceeding ₹63 crore.
- Sewage Treatment Plant proposed to improve sanitation and protect the Mahanadi.
- Shivrinarayan to be developed under the Ram Van Gaman Tourism Circuit.
- Survey to examine upgrading Shivrinarayan to a municipal council.
- Sai inaugurates the three-day Shivrinarayan Mahotsav and participates in the Maha Aarti of Maa Chitrotpala Ganga.
- Chief Minister highlights housing, farmers’ welfare, Mahtari Vandan, Bastar’s development and digital governance initiatives.
- Sai calls for collective efforts to realise the vision of a developed Chhattisgarh by 2047.
Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, announced a series of major infrastructure and civic development initiatives for the sacred pilgrimage town of Shivrinarayan, including the construction of a new bridge across the Mahanadi at an estimated cost exceeding ₹63 crore. Inaugurating the three-day Shivrinarayan Mahotsav in Janjgir-Champa district, the Chief Minister also announced the establishment of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), development of the town under the Ram Van Gaman Tourism Circuit and a survey to examine the possibility of granting Shivrinarayan municipal council status. Describing the town as a symbol of Chhattisgarh’s spiritual and cultural identity, Sai reaffirmed his government’s commitment to advancing faith, heritage conservation and modern development together.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by his wife Kaushalya Devi Sai, participated in religious ceremonies at Shivrinarayan, a historic pilgrimage destination associated with Mata Shabari and Lord Shri Ram.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai receives a commemorative framed photo collage from organisers during the Shivrinarayan Mahotsav at Shivrinarayan in Janjgir-Champa district on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in the presence of Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, public representatives and other dignitaries. The occasion marked the inauguration of the three-day festival celebrating the town’s religious and cultural heritage. Photo: channel24india,com via CG/DPR
During the celebrations, he performed Gau Puja and participated in the Maha Aarti of Maa Chitrotpala Ganga, praying for the happiness, prosperity and wellbeing of the people of Chhattisgarh.
The announcements are expected to strengthen connectivity, sanitation, religious tourism and civic infrastructure in the region.
₹63-Crore Mahanadi Bridge to Strengthen Regional Connectivity
One of the most significant announcements was the proposed construction of a new bridge across the Mahanadi at a cost exceeding ₹63 crore.
The project is intended to improve connectivity between Shivrinarayan and surrounding villages, facilitating easier movement of residents, pilgrims and commercial traffic.
Chief Minister Sai said the town’s infrastructure must be strengthened in accordance with its growing requirements and future potential.
“Shivrinarayan holds special religious and cultural significance. Keeping its present requirements and future possibilities in mind, we will expand infrastructure and civic amenities. The new bridge across the Mahanadi will make transportation more convenient and provide better connectivity to surrounding villages and areas.”
The announcement is particularly important for a pilgrimage destination where improved transportation can support local businesses, religious tourism and access to essential services.
The proposed bridge is also expected to improve connectivity for communities dependent on nearby urban centres for education, healthcare and commercial activities.
Sewage Treatment Plant to Improve Sanitation and Protect the Mahanadi
The Chief Minister announced the establishment of a Sewage Treatment Plant to ensure proper treatment of wastewater generated in Shivrinarayan.
The initiative is intended to strengthen urban sanitation and contribute to the protection of the Mahanadi.
Sai emphasised that development must be accompanied by environmental responsibility, particularly in places where rivers carry immense religious and cultural significance.
“The establishment of a Sewage Treatment Plant will strengthen the town’s sanitation arrangements and also help protect the Mahanadi. Our objective is to develop Shivrinarayan while preserving its religious and cultural importance.”
The project is expected to support improved wastewater management, although its eventual environmental benefits will depend on the plant’s capacity, operational efficiency and effective treatment arrangements.
Shivrinarayan to Be Developed Under Ram Van Gaman Tourism Circuit
Recognising the town’s association with Lord Shri Ram’s journey through the region, Sai announced that Shivrinarayan would receive further development under the Ram Van Gaman Tourism Circuit.
The initiative is intended to strengthen religious tourism infrastructure and create additional opportunities for local employment and livelihoods.
The Chief Minister highlighted the emotional and cultural relationship between Chhattisgarh and Lord Shri Ram.
“Lord Shri Ram shares a deeply affectionate relationship with Chhattisgarh. Our state is regarded as his maternal home, and we have a distinctive tradition of honouring him as our nephew. Shivrinarayan is an important sacred place associated with his journey through the forests.”
Sai said that developing Shivrinarayan under the tourism circuit would create opportunities for visitors while strengthening the local economy.
The initiative could benefit traders, accommodation providers, transport operators, artisans and other people associated with pilgrimage tourism.
Survey to Examine Municipal Council Status for Shivrinarayan
The Chief Minister also announced that a survey would be undertaken to examine the possibility of upgrading Shivrinarayan to a municipal council.
The proposal reflects the town’s expanding civic requirements and its significance as a religious and tourism destination.
A municipal council structure, if subsequently approved through the prescribed process, could provide a broader administrative framework for civic planning, sanitation, public infrastructure and urban services.
The Chief Minister’s announcement was for a survey rather than an immediate change in municipal status.
Visiting Mata Shabari’s Sacred Land Is My Good Fortune: Sai
Extending greetings to the people of Chhattisgarh on the occasion of Shivrinarayan Mahotsav and Sharadiya Navratri, Chief Minister Sai expressed deep reverence for the sacred town.
He described his visit as a spiritually meaningful occasion and said he had arrived with his wife in response to the divine call of Mata Shabari.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addresses devotees and citizens during the inauguration of the three-day Shivrinarayan Mahotsav in Janjgir-Champa district on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, outlining development plans for the pilgrimage town and reaffirming his government’s commitment to preserving Chhattisgarh’s spiritual heritage while strengthening infrastructure and public services. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/CMO
“It is my good fortune to visit this sacred land of Mata Shabari, sanctified by the footsteps of Lord Shri Ram. I have come here with my wife at the call of Mata Shabari. Shivrinarayan symbolises our faith, devotion and rich cultural heritage.”
The Chief Minister emphasised that the traditions associated with Shivrinarayan represent an important part of Chhattisgarh’s collective spiritual inheritance.
He also expressed appreciation for the practice of conducting evening Aarti every day in the town.
“Traditions such as the daily evening Aarti connect our faith and culture with the younger generation. These sacred practices should be preserved and carried forward continuously.”
Sai urged devotees and local communities to maintain these religious traditions and ensure that future generations remain connected with the state’s cultural roots.
Chief Minister Performs Gau Puja and Participates in Maha Aarti
During his visit, Sai performed Gau Puja and participated in the Maha Aarti of Maa Chitrotpala Ganga.
Accompanied by Kaushalya Devi Sai, the Chief Minister offered prayers for the happiness, prosperity and welfare of the people.
The ceremonies formed an important part of the Shivrinarayan Mahotsav, which celebrates the town’s religious traditions and cultural identity.
The Chief Minister’s participation highlighted the importance of preserving traditional observances while developing the facilities required to accommodate pilgrims and visitors.
Modi’s Guarantees Being Implemented with Commitment: Sai
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister also presented an account of the state government’s welfare initiatives.
He said the government was working with determination to fulfil the commitments made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the people of Chhattisgarh.
Sai recalled that the first Cabinet meeting, held within 24 hours of the government’s swearing-in, approved a decision concerning 18 lakh houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
According to figures presented by the Chief Minister, approximately 11.5 lakh houses have been completed, with around 1,600 houses being completed every day.
“Our government is working with complete commitment to fulfil the guarantees given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the people of Chhattisgarh. Our effort is to ensure that every needy family has a permanent roof over its head and can live with dignity.”
He said 15,000 houses had been approved for surrendered Naxalites, of which 6,000 had been provided.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), 32,000 houses have also been approved for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
The Chief Minister described secure housing as a foundation for dignity, social stability and improved living conditions.
Farmers’ Prosperity Remains a Government Priority
Highlighting measures undertaken for farmers, Sai said his government had prioritised the fulfilment of commitments made to agricultural communities.
He stated that pending paddy bonuses from previous years had been paid and that paddy was being procured at ₹3,100 per quintal for up to 21 quintals per acre.
The Chief Minister also said more than 250 new paddy procurement centres had been opened to reduce inconvenience for farmers.
“We have fulfilled our commitments to farmers on priority. Our government is continuously working to bring positive changes to the lives of villagers, poor families, farmers and forest-dwelling communities.”
Referring to forest-based livelihoods, Sai said the tendu leaf collection rate had been increased to ₹5,500 per standard bag.
He also mentioned the distribution of footwear to tendu leaf collectors as part of the government’s welfare measures.
Mahtari Vandan Strengthening Women’s Economic Independence
The Chief Minister described the Mahtari Vandan Yojana as an important initiative for strengthening women’s economic confidence and independence.
Under the scheme, eligible women receive financial assistance of ₹1,000 per month.
Sai said the assistance was helping beneficiaries meet household expenses while also enabling some women to undertake small economic activities.
“The amount provided under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana is not merely financial assistance. It has become a means of strengthening the confidence and self-reliance of our mothers and sisters.”
He observed that women were using the assistance to meet family requirements, establish small businesses and supplement their household income.
The Chief Minister emphasised that women’s economic empowerment remained an important component of the state’s development agenda.
Nearly 50,000 Devotees Have Visited Ayodhya Under Ramlala Darshan Scheme
Referring to the spiritual relationship between Chhattisgarh and Ayodhya, Sai highlighted the Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana.
He said the scheme had enabled approximately 50,000 devotees from Chhattisgarh to visit Ayodhya and offer prayers at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.
The Chief Minister described the initiative as a reflection of the state’s deep-rooted devotion to Lord Shri Ram.
He also reiterated that Shivrinarayan’s development under the Ram Van Gaman Tourism Circuit would strengthen the region’s position as an important pilgrimage destination.
Bastar Witnessing a New Beginning Through Peace and Development
The Chief Minister also referred to the changes taking place in Bastar, where government initiatives are intended to extend basic services to communities historically affected by conflict and inadequate infrastructure.
He highlighted the Niyad Nellanar Scheme and the Agrani Bastar Abhiyan as programmes aimed at improving access to development in remote areas.
Sai said 421 previously closed schools had been reopened in Bastar.
“In areas where Naxalism once made education and development difficult, children are now attending schools and new possibilities for progress are emerging. Our objective is to establish a lasting foundation of peace, security and development throughout Bastar and Chhattisgarh.”
The Chief Minister stressed that restoring education and public services in affected areas was essential for creating long-term opportunities.
Chhattisgarh Will Play a Major Role in Building a Developed India
Looking towards the national vision for 2047, Sai said Chhattisgarh’s natural resources, mineral wealth, forests and human potential would play an important role in India’s development.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to planned progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, industry, employment and modern technology.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has resolved to make India a developed nation by 2047. Chhattisgarh will play an important role in achieving this national objective. Through the collective efforts of the government and society, we will realise the vision of a developed Chhattisgarh alongside a developed India.”
The Chief Minister said that economic progress and the preservation of cultural identity should reinforce one another.
His remarks linked the Shivrinarayan development announcements with the government’s broader vision of infrastructure expansion, better public services and inclusive economic growth.
Good Governance Means Timely Services and Accountability: Sai
The Chief Minister said that efficient administration and timely delivery of public services were central to the government’s good governance agenda.
He highlighted the establishment of the Good Governance and Convergence Department and the increasing use of modern technology in government functioning.
Sai said:
“The fundamental purpose of good governance is to ensure that citizens receive services conveniently and within the prescribed time. Transparency and accountability are among our government’s highest priorities.”
He said citizens could register complaints and grievances through the Chief Minister’s Helpline 1076 at any time.
The Chief Minister warned that unnecessary delays and negligence in public-interest matters would invite action.
“Complaints will be resolved within the prescribed timeframe. Action will also be taken against those responsible for unnecessary delays or negligence in matters concerning public welfare.”
He said work was progressing towards making more than 700 services of 36 departments available online through the Seva Setu portal.
The Chief Minister also stated that approximately 6,000 gram panchayats had established Atal Digital Suvidha Kendras, enabling rural residents to access digital services and cash withdrawal facilities locally.
“Our objective is to reduce the distance between the government and citizens through technology so that people do not have to visit government offices repeatedly for routine services.”
Union Minister Tokhan Sahu Calls for Public Participation in Water Conservation
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu also addressed the gathering and highlighted Shivrinarayan’s religious, historical and cultural importance.
He referred to the confluence of three rivers and the devotional traditions associated with Mata Shabari as defining features of the town’s identity.
Sahu urged citizens to participate actively in water conservation and emphasised the importance of collective responsibility for protecting natural resources.
He also called upon society to remain committed to the dignity, respect and safety of women.
Member of Parliament Kamlesh Jangde similarly stressed the importance of water conservation.
She urged citizens to protect rivers and water sources, construct soak pits in their homes and conserve every drop of water.
Jangde also encouraged people to take advantage of the welfare schemes being implemented by the central and state governments.
Faith, Culture and Development to Advance Together
The Shivrinarayan Mahotsav brought together religious observances, cultural celebrations and major announcements concerning the town’s future development.
The proposed Mahanadi bridge, sewage treatment plant, tourism circuit development and municipal council survey represent different aspects of the government’s plans to improve infrastructure and civic services.
Chief Minister Sai reiterated that Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity would remain central to its development journey.
“We will move forward by taking faith, culture and development together and fulfil our resolve to build a developed Chhattisgarh.”
The occasion was attended by Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu, Finance Minister O. P. Choudhary, Kaushalya Devi Sai, MP Kamlesh Jangde, MLA Ramsundar Das, Narayan Chandel, Textbook Corporation Chairman Raja Pandey and numerous public representatives, officials, employees and citizens.
The three-day festival opened with a renewed focus on preserving Shivrinarayan’s spiritual heritage while creating the infrastructure and opportunities needed for its future growth.
