Kumar Bahukhandi
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, centre, applauds as representatives display signed agreements during the first regional workshop on the Urban Challenge Fund and Urban Invest Window at Mayfair Lake Resort in Nava Raipur on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu and Principal Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department Sonmoni Borah, standing at the extreme left, marking an important step towards strengthening urban financing, technical cooperation and institutional capacity in Chhattisgarh. Photo:channel24india.com via CG/CMO
Chief Minister inaugurates first regional workshop on Urban Challenge Fund and Urban Invest Window in Nava Raipur; two major MoUs with HUDCO and CEPT University aim to strengthen urban planning, financing, technical expertise and sustainable infrastructure development.
Key Highlights
- Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurates the first regional workshop on the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) and Urban Invest Window (UiWIN) at Mayfair Lake Resort, Nava Raipur, on October 21, 2026.
- CM Sai urges urban local bodies to prepare financially viable, technically sound and sustainable projects that address the needs of future generations.
- Two MoUs signed: one between HUDCO and Chhattisgarh’s Urban Administration and Development Department, and another between the department and CEPT University.
- Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao says the Centre’s ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund offers major opportunities for urban transformation.
- Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu advocates innovative financing, public-private partnerships and economically sustainable urban infrastructure.
- Chief Minister emphasises permanent solutions to waterlogging, improved drainage, underground utility networks and coordinated urban planning.
- Cities identified as major engines of investment, industrial development, employment generation and economic growth under the Viksit Chhattisgarh 2047 vision.
- Mayors of all 14 municipal corporations, municipal council chairpersons, senior officials and urban development experts participate in the workshop.
Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, called for a comprehensive transformation of Chhattisgarh’s urban development approach, emphasising that cities must be planned not merely to address present-day requirements but to meet the social, economic and infrastructure demands of the coming decades. Inaugurating the first regional workshop on the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) and Urban Invest Window (UiWIN) at Mayfair Lake Resort in Nava Raipur, the Chief Minister said that well-planned, inclusive, sustainable and economically resilient cities would play a decisive role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat and Viksit Chhattisgarh by 2047. The workshop, jointly organised by the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) and the Chhattisgarh Urban Administration and Development Department, also witnessed the signing of two important Memoranda of Understanding aimed at strengthening urban financing, technical expertise, institutional capacity and long-term development planning.
Cities Must Become Engines of Economic Growth and Innovation: CM Sai
Addressing mayors, municipal chairpersons, officials and urban development experts, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasised that cities must be viewed as centres of economic opportunity rather than merely concentrations of residential buildings and civic amenities. He said:
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addresses mayors, municipal representatives, officials and urban planning experts during the first regional workshop on the Urban Challenge Fund and Urban Invest Window at Mayfair Lake Resort in Nava Raipur on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, emphasising sustainable infrastructure, long-term planning, innovative financing and the development of economically strong, future-ready cities. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/CMO
“Our cities have an extremely important role in building a developed India and a developed Chhattisgarh. Cities are not merely centres of housing and civic facilities; they are also major foundations of economic activity, industry, trade, employment and innovation.”
The Chief Minister stressed that urban development must follow a long-term vision encompassing infrastructure, economic productivity, environmental sustainability and citizens’ quality of life.
“The development of Chhattisgarh’s cities must not remain confined to present requirements. We must plan for the needs of the coming decades and develop cities that are well-organised, inclusive, sustainable and economically capable.”
He said that rapid urbanisation presents both challenges and opportunities, requiring local administrations to adopt modern planning methods and strengthen their ability to mobilise resources.
Urban Challenge Fund Offers Major Opportunity for Chhattisgarh
Chief Minister Sai credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership with introducing a new approach to urban development across India.
He described the Urban Challenge Fund as an important opportunity for cities to strengthen their infrastructure and financial capabilities.
“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, urban development in the country has received a new vision and momentum. Innovative initiatives such as the Urban Challenge Fund provide a major opportunity to make our cities modern, well-equipped, economically strong and self-reliant.”
He urged urban local bodies to take full advantage of the initiative by preparing high-quality development proposals.
“Urban local bodies in Chhattisgarh must make the maximum use of this opportunity by preparing quality projects that not only improve citizens’ lives but also strengthen the economies of their cities.”
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Arun Sao, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu, Principal Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department Sonmoni Borah, standing at the extreme left, and senior officials, attends the first regional workshop on the Urban Challenge Fund and Urban Invest Window at Mayfair Lake Resort in Nava Raipur on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, highlighting the state government’s commitment to modern urban infrastructure, institutional partnerships and sustainable development across Chhattisgarh. Photo: channel24india.com via CMO
The Chief Minister emphasised that projects should demonstrate clear public benefits, technical feasibility and long-term economic sustainability.
Two Major MoUs Signed to Strengthen Urban Development
Two important Memoranda of Understanding were signed during the workshop to strengthen institutional cooperation and provide technical and financial support for urban development projects.
The first MoU was signed between HUDCO and the Chhattisgarh Government’s Urban Administration and Development Department.
The second agreement was signed between the Urban Administration and Development Department and CEPT University.
The partnerships are intended to support urban local bodies in project preparation, financial resource mobilisation, technical planning, training and institutional capacity building.
Welcoming the agreements, CM Sai said:
“These agreements will help our urban local bodies prepare better development plans, mobilise financial resources, obtain technical expertise and strengthen training and institutional capabilities. This will accelerate the preparation and effective implementation of quality projects based on the actual needs of our cities.”
He emphasised that cooperation between government departments, financial institutions and specialised academic organisations was essential for modern urban governance.
“Strong partnerships among expert institutions, financial organisations and the government are the need of the hour. Such institutional cooperation will play an important role in preparing Chhattisgarh’s cities for future requirements.”
The agreements are expected to facilitate more systematic project planning and encourage municipalities to develop financially and technically viable proposals.
Viksit Chhattisgarh 2047 Requires Strong Urban Economies
Chief Minister Sai linked the transformation of urban infrastructure with the broader national objective of building a developed India by 2047.
He said the Chhattisgarh Government had prepared its own Viksit Chhattisgarh vision document and was working in mission mode to implement its objectives.
The Chief Minister emphasised that cities must attract investment, support industrial and commercial growth, generate employment and provide reliable public services.
“We must develop cities that attract investment, create a favourable environment for industry and trade, generate new employment opportunities and provide high-quality basic amenities to citizens. Planned urbanisation will form a strong foundation for a developed Chhattisgarh.”
He observed that cities equipped with modern infrastructure and efficient civic systems would be better positioned to attract businesses and create sustainable economic opportunities.
Permanent Solutions Needed for Waterlogging and Drainage Problems
The Chief Minister expressed concern over recurring civic problems in urban areas, particularly waterlogging during the monsoon.
He urged municipalities to move away from temporary arrangements and develop long-term solutions.
“Development plans should not be prepared merely to solve today’s problems. They must take into account the requirements of the next several decades. Citizens should not have to face recurring difficulties because of inadequate drainage and poorly planned infrastructure.”
He stressed that urban planning must include comprehensive arrangements for drinking water, drainage, roads, electricity, sanitation, transportation and other essential services.
The Chief Minister said that waterlogging must be addressed through effective and sustainable drainage systems rather than short-term interventions.
Underground Utility Networks and Coordinated Infrastructure Planning
CM Sai also drew attention to the problems created by unorganised overhead electrical and utility cables in urban areas.
He referred to situations in which electrical wires have to be raised temporarily to allow processions or large vehicles to pass.
“In several places, electrical wires have to be lifted to allow processions or large vehicles to pass. Such arrangements are neither appropriate from the perspective of public safety nor consistent with modern urban infrastructure. Wherever feasible, plans should be prepared to place electricity and other utility lines underground.”
He emphasised the need for coordination among departments responsible for roads, water supply, drainage, electricity and sanitation.
“Roads, drinking water, electricity, drainage and sanitation must not be planned as isolated activities. They should form part of integrated urban development so that public resources are used effectively and citizens receive lasting benefits.”
The Chief Minister said that better coordination would help prevent repeated excavation of roads, duplication of infrastructure work and unnecessary inconvenience to residents.
Mayors and Municipal Chairpersons Must Plan for Future Generations
Addressing elected representatives from urban local bodies, CM Sai reminded them that public office carries the responsibility of creating lasting improvements in their cities.
He urged mayors, municipal council chairpersons and Nagar Panchayat presidents to identify the actual needs of their respective towns and develop practical solutions.
“The people have entrusted you with the great responsibility of developing your cities. Understanding their real needs and finding permanent solutions to their problems must be your priority.”
He advised municipal representatives to carefully study the Urban Challenge Fund’s provisions and consult experts before preparing project proposals.
“The Urban Challenge Fund is a major opportunity for our urban local bodies. Study its provisions seriously, engage with experts and prepare projects that are technically sound, useful to citizens and economically viable.”
He expressed confidence that the workshop would provide valuable technical guidance and encourage a more innovative approach to urban development.
Development Must Reach the Last Person: CM Sai
The Chief Minister also highlighted the Union Government’s commitment to inclusive development under the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas.
He referred to the PM-JANMAN programme, which seeks to expand roads, electricity, housing, drinking water and other basic amenities in settlements inhabited by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
He also highlighted the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan as an important initiative for comprehensive tribal development.
CM Sai said that development should not remain concentrated in major urban centres but should also benefit remote and underserved communities.
Railway Expansion and Improved Security Strengthen Development Prospects
Referring to infrastructure development across Chhattisgarh, the Chief Minister highlighted the expansion of railway connectivity.
He described the extension of rail services towards Rowghat in Bastar and the commencement of passenger services between Raipur and Kurud as significant achievements.
The Chief Minister said that improved connectivity would support trade, mobility and economic activity.
He also referred to Chhattisgarh’s abundant natural and mineral resources, fertile land and hardworking population as major strengths.
Acknowledging the progress made against Naxalism, he credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the determination of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the courage of security forces.
He said that improvements in security had created new possibilities for investment and development.
“Chhattisgarh is blessed with rich natural and mineral resources, fertile land and hardworking people. These are our greatest strengths. Together, we must build a Chhattisgarh that plays a leading role in achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047.”
He called for strengthening the identity of Chhattisgarhiya Sable Badhiya through collective efforts towards progress and prosperity.
₹1 Lakh Crore Urban Challenge Fund a Major Opportunity: Deputy CM Arun Sao
Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Arun Sao said that the Union Government had made a provision of ₹1 lakh crore for the Urban Challenge Fund.
He described the initiative as a significant opportunity for Chhattisgarh’s urban local bodies to secure resources for transformative infrastructure projects.
“The Government of India has provided ₹1 lakh crore for the Urban Challenge Fund. This is a major opportunity for the development of Chhattisgarh’s cities. The challenge now is how effectively our urban local bodies prepare quality and viable projects to secure maximum resources from this fund.”
Sao said that rapid technological changes and rising public expectations required municipalities to adopt innovative working methods.
“The world is changing rapidly, and citizens’ expectations are changing with technology. Urban development practices must also change. We cannot meet future requirements by relying only on conventional methods.”
He encouraged elected representatives to regard their responsibilities as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the cities that had shaped their lives.
“The city that gave us our identity, education, values and opportunities has now entrusted us with leadership. This is our opportunity to give something back to our city. Every public representative should resolve to undertake work that benefits future generations.”
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed that the success of a project should not be measured merely by its completion.
He said its utility, operation, maintenance and financial sustainability must be considered from the planning stage.
“The success of a project is not determined merely by its construction. Its usefulness, operation, maintenance and financial viability must be clearly planned from the beginning. Ensuring the proper use of every rupee of public money is our collective responsibility.”
Urban Challenge Fund Will Strengthen Civic Infrastructure: Union Minister Tokhan Sahu
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu said that the Union Government had introduced major reforms and initiatives to accelerate urban development.
He referred to the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Urban, Swachh Bharat Mission and AMRUT Mission as programmes that had contributed to improved civic amenities and living standards.
“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, urban development in India has received a new direction. Schemes such as PMAY–Urban, Swachh Bharat Mission and AMRUT have expanded civic facilities and brought important improvements to people’s lives.”
Sahu emphasised that increasing urban populations were placing additional demands on housing, drinking water, roads, transport and sanitation.
He said that municipalities must strengthen their financial capabilities and explore innovative methods of financing infrastructure.
“Urban development projects must be useful to citizens as well as economically viable. Along with government assistance, bank financing, market-based resources and public-private partnerships should be effectively utilised.”
He cited waste-to-energy initiatives in Jabalpur and technology-based water management and monitoring systems in Hyderabad as examples of innovation.
The Union Minister encouraged Chhattisgarh’s municipalities to study successful urban development models from other states and adapt them to local circumstances.
HUDCO and CEPT University to Support Technical and Institutional Capacity
The workshop included expert discussions on the Urban Challenge Fund, Urban Invest Window, project feasibility, resource mobilisation, financial management and modern urban planning.
The agreements involving HUDCO and CEPT University are expected to provide urban local bodies with access to specialised knowledge and institutional support.
Areas of cooperation include project formulation, technical evaluation, financial planning, training and implementation capacity.
Such assistance is intended to help municipalities move beyond conventional infrastructure proposals and prepare integrated projects capable of delivering sustainable economic and social benefits.
The workshop also provided an opportunity for municipal representatives to interact with experts and understand emerging approaches to urban infrastructure financing.
Mayors of All 14 Municipal Corporations Attend Workshop
The event brought together elected representatives, senior government officials, urban development professionals and representatives of specialised institutions.
Among those present were mayors of all 14 municipal corporations in Chhattisgarh, municipal council chairpersons, Principal Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department Sonmoni Borah, HUDCO Chairman and Managing Director Sanjay Kulshrestha, Telangana Urban Administration and Development Department Secretary Dr T. K. Sridevi, CEPT University President Barjor Mehta, Urban Administration and Development Department Director Nilesh Mahadev Kshirsagar and SUDA Chief Executive Officer Sumit Agrawal.
The participation of representatives from different institutions underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.
A Long-Term Roadmap for Clean, Modern and Self-Reliant Cities
The regional workshop marked an important step towards strengthening urban planning and institutional coordination in Chhattisgarh.
The discussions highlighted the need to combine modern technology, innovative financing, public participation and sustainable infrastructure development.
For the state’s urban local bodies, the Urban Challenge Fund presents an opportunity to develop projects capable of improving essential services while supporting economic growth.
The two MoUs are expected to strengthen the technical and financial capabilities needed to translate such proposals into practical development initiatives.
Under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership, the state government aims to develop cities that are cleaner, better organised, economically productive and prepared for the needs of future generations.
The success of this vision will depend on effective project preparation, financial discipline, interdepartmental coordination and sustained implementation.
As Chhattisgarh advances towards its Viksit Chhattisgarh 2047 objectives, the transformation of its cities will remain central to building a more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable state.
