Kumar Bahukhandi
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addresses an interactive programme in Raipur on Wednesday July 22, 2026 , sharing the State Government’s vision for women empowerment, Bastar’s transformation, employment generation, tourism-led growth and inclusive governance, while highlighting the impact of the Mahatari Vandan Scheme-Photo-Credit-channel24india.com (File Photo)
Key Factors
- 6.85 million women receiving monthly financial assistance under the Mahatari Vandan Scheme.
- ₹18,800 crore transferred through 29 instalments.
- Women using assistance for entrepreneurship, savings and family welfare.
- 2.86 lakh Self-Help Groups connecting nearly 30 lakh women.
- Bastar witnessing a transition from conflict to development, education and employment.
- 500+ villages covered under the Niyad Nellanar Initiative.
- 3.6 million health screenings conducted under the Mukhyamantri Swasth Bastar Abhiyan.
- Tourism, irrigation and industrial investment identified as key growth sectors.
- 5,000 teacher recruitments to be undertaken.
- Government reiterates commitment to women’s empowerment, employment generation and good governance.
Chief Minister outlines government’s vision for women empowerment, Bastar’s transformation, employment, tourism and good governance
Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reaffirmed the Chhattisgarh Government’s commitment to inclusive development, stating that empowering women remains central to the state’s progress. Speaking at a public interaction programme in Raipur on Wednesday July 22, 2026 he highlighted the government’s initiatives in women’s welfare, Bastar’s development, employment generation, industrial growth, tourism and administrative reforms.
The Chief Minister described Chhattisgarh as more than a geographical entity, calling it “Chhattisgarh Mahtari”—a symbol of the state’s cultural identity and heritage. Referring to the Indian tradition of honouring women, he said that sustainable development is possible only when women are economically secure, socially respected and actively involved in decision-making.
Mahatari Vandan Scheme Strengthening Women’s Financial Independence
Highlighting the impact of the Mahatari Vandan Scheme, the Chief Minister said nearly 6.85 million married women in the state are receiving ₹1,000 every month directly into their bank accounts. Through 29 instalments, around ₹18,800 crore has already been transferred, helping women become financially independent.
He shared that during his visits across villages, many beneficiaries proudly narrate how they have used the financial assistance to improve their lives. Some have invested in their daughters’ future through savings schemes, while others have started tailoring units, grocery shops, vegetable businesses and other small enterprises, giving their families an additional and stable source of income.
Women’s Initiative Extends Beyond Families
Sharing an inspiring example, the Chief Minister said women from Dansara village in Sarangarh-Bilaigarh district collectively contributed a part of their Mahatari Vandan assistance towards the construction of a Lord Ram temple. According to him, the initiative reflects how financial empowerment is encouraging women to contribute not only to their households but also to social and cultural causes.
Self-Help Groups Driving Rural Prosperity
The Chief Minister said the state now has 2.86 lakh active Self-Help Groups, connecting nearly 30 lakh women. These groups are being linked with livelihood programmes, financial assistance and entrepreneurship initiatives, enabling women to generate sustainable incomes while strengthening rural economies.
Bastar Writing a New Development Story
Describing Bastar’s changing landscape, the Chief Minister said the region is witnessing a historic transition from decades of violence towards peace and development. He credited coordinated efforts by security forces, public participation and development-oriented governance for creating an environment where education, healthcare, infrastructure and livelihoods are expanding together.
He noted that the Niyad Nellanar Initiative has now reached more than 500 villages, bringing over 40 government schemes from nearly 17 departments to previously underserved communities. Essential documents such as ration cards and Ayushman cards are also being provided to eligible families.
Healthcare, Irrigation and Tourism to Accelerate Growth
The Chief Minister highlighted that under the Mukhyamantri Swasth Bastar Abhiyan, nearly 3.6 million health screenings have been conducted, ensuring timely treatment for people requiring specialised medical care.
He also referred to proposed irrigation projects on the Indravati River, which are expected to irrigate nearly 80,000 acres of farmland, improving agricultural productivity in the region.
Tourism, he said, is emerging as another major driver of Bastar’s economy. Destinations such as Chitrakote Waterfall, Kutumsar Caves, Abujhmad forests and Dhudmaras village are attracting increasing attention. Under the state’s new industrial policy, home-stay operators will receive financial assistance, making community-based tourism a source of local employment.
Employment Through Industry and Skill Development
The Chief Minister said the government is creating employment opportunities through industrial investment and skill development. With investment proposals exceeding ₹8 lakh crore over the past one-and-a-half years, the state expects large-scale job creation across multiple sectors.
He also announced that recruitment of 5,000 teachers will be undertaken soon while emphasizing that industrial expansion remains essential for generating employment beyond government services.
Social Reforms and Governance
The Chief Minister said the State Government has enacted the Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act, 2026, aimed at regulating religious conversions through a legally defined process. He also informed that work on a Uniform Civil Code is progressing through a committee headed by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, with the government aiming for substantial progress before the upcoming Winter Session of the Assembly.
He further stated that investigations into the alleged PSC recruitment irregularities are continuing and assured that appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible.
Women Share Stories of Transformation
The programme concluded with beneficiaries sharing how the Mahatari Vandan Scheme has changed their lives. One woman spoke of starting a bangle business with the financial assistance, while another said the monthly support has enabled her to pay her child’s school fees regularly. Their experiences reflected the scheme’s broader objective of strengthening financial security and enhancing women’s role within their families and communities.
