Kumar Bahukhandi
Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth more than Rs. 280 crore in the Lundra block of Surguja district on Thursday April 9, 2026 .
Addressing a large gathering of farmers and local residents at a Kisan Sammelan, the Chief Minister stated that these initiatives will strengthen basic infrastructure while accelerating “balanced and inclusive regional development.”
Describing the occasion as historic for the Surguja region, he noted that Lundra is witnessing such a large-scale development push after many years.
He inaugurated works worth Rs. 28 crore and laid the foundation stone for works worth Rs. 253 crore. Praising public representatives, he highlighted that their efforts have enabled improved air connectivity for Surguja, linking Ambikapur with major cities like Delhi and Kolkata, thereby enhancing both connectivity and economic growth.
Addressing farmers, the Chief Minister reiterated that the state government remains fully committed to farmers’ welfare and is taking consistent steps to improve their income. He stated that paddy procurement is being carried out at 21 quintals per acre at Rs. 3,100 per quintal, with payments made within 24 to 48 hours.
Additionally, under the Krishak Unnati Yojana, the state government transferred the paddy procurement difference amount directly to farmers’ bank accounts in a time-bound manner, contributing to “financial stability and visible prosperity” in rural households.
He further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, several landmark initiatives, such as the Kisan Credit Card and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, have been implemented to benefit farmers.
The state government is effectively executing these schemes to make agriculture more profitable and sustainable, the CM Sai remarked.
Highlighting key achievements of the state government, the Chief Minister said that within 24 hours of assuming office, approval was granted for 18 lakh houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. More than 8 lakh houses have already been completed and handed over to beneficiaries. For Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups, the Pradhan Mantri JANMAN Yojana is ensuring access to housing, electricity, water, and roads for thousands of families.
Referring to the transformation in Bastar, he said the region, which suffered decades of violence, is now entering a new era of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the courage of security forces. Special provisions have also been made to provide houses for surrendered Naxalites to help integrate them into the mainstream.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, nearly 70 lakh women in the state are receiving monthly financial assistance, enhancing their “economic independence and social respect.” The government has further prioritised public welfare through increased tendu patta collection rates, revival of the Charan Paduka Yojana, and establishment of a transparent administrative system.
In the healthcare sector, he announced the establishment of five new medical colleges and the deployment of 375 new ambulances, significantly strengthening emergency healthcare infrastructure. He also urged citizens to benefit from schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Bijli Bill Bhugtan Samadhan Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the government’s focus is not just on announcing schemes but ensuring their effective implementation at the grassroots level so that every citizen benefits. He reiterated that continuous efforts are being made to holistically uplift villages, people with low incomes, farmers, youth, and women.
On the occasion, several key announcements were made for the Lundra region, including the construction of a modern stadium, the development of a road connecting Sanna–Jashpur–Dhanwarpur–Surguja to Varanasi, the establishment of a new rest house at the block headquarters, and the setting up of krishi up mandi. He expressed confidence that these projects will boost economic activities and create new opportunities for local youth.
During the programme, MP Chintamani Maharaj, Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam, and other public representatives appreciated the development initiatives under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, describing them as a reflection of the government’s commitment to public welfare and inclusive progress, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai noted.
