On May 13, 2025, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmer Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, alongside Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, conducted a detailed review of the state’s Panchayat & Rural Development and Agriculture departments at Mahanadi Bhawan, Raipur. The meeting focused on the effective implementation of state and central government schemes and outlined strategies to advance rural and agricultural development.
Praise for Chhattisgarh’s Efforts
Exemplary Work in Development
Shri Chouhan lauded the Chhattisgarh government’s commitment and administrative efficiency, highlighting the state’s exemplary achievements in agriculture and rural development. He emphasized that empowering developed villages and ensuring the prosperity of farmers are key to realizing the vision of a developed India.
Rural Development Initiatives
Strengthening Key Schemes
The review highlighted the AmritSarovar scheme, with Shri Chouhan stressing its potential to link water conservation with local livelihoods, creating employment opportunities for villagers. He also addressed the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA), assuring consideration of the state’s request to revise the labour budget. Progress under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) was reviewed, with a call for swift completion of approved houses and physical verification of new surveys.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Development in Remote Areas
Shri Chouhan expressed satisfaction with the Prime Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojana and the Niyad Nelanar scheme, which are driving road construction in Naxal-affected areas. These initiatives are bringing development to remote regions, improving connectivity and access to essential services.
Digital Empowerment
Atal Digital Suvidha Kendras
The Atal Digital Suvidha Kendras, launched by the Chhattisgarh government in gram panchayats, were praised as a revolutionary step toward digital empowerment. Shri Chouhan suggested studying this model for replication across other states, recognizing its role in strengthening the rural economy.
Agricultural Advancements
Boosting Farmers’ Income
In the agriculture review, Shri Chouhan emphasized diversifying income sources through animal husbandry, horticulture, and fisheries, alongside traditional farming. He advocated for scientific farming practices, high-quality seeds, organic farming, and crop rotation to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan
Upcoming Agricultural Initiative
Shri Chouhan announced the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, a central government initiative where scientists will visit Chhattisgarh’s districts to train farmers in practical and scientific farming techniques. He urged the state government to actively participate to maximize the program’s impact.
Collaborative Vision
Central-State Partnership
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted that rural development and agriculture form the backbone of Chhattisgarh’s economy. He emphasized the state’s commitment to delivering development to remote areas, promoting self-reliant rural economies, and providing skill-based employment to youth, reflecting true good governance.
Key Facts About Chhattisgarh’s Development Review
- Review Date: May 13, 2025
- Location: Mahanadi Bhawan, Raipur
- Key Figures: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, CM Vishnu Deo Sai
- Schemes Reviewed: AmritSarovar, MGNREGA, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), Gram Sadak Yojana, Niyad Nelanar
- Digital Initiative: Atal Digital Suvidha Kendras for rural empowerment
- Agricultural Focus: Scientific farming, organic practices, and allied sectors
- Upcoming Program: Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan for farmer training